In this time of self-isolation, getting things done should be easy. Fewer distractions. Fewer places to go. More time to think, to write, to create. Right?

So why is it hard to make progress on that work-in-progress (WIP) or tackle a long-put-off project. I can’t speak for others, but for me, the answer comes down to these three things:

1. Lack of focus
2. Stress
3. Less time

Lack of Focus

For years, I’ve been a fan of David Allen and his book Getting Things Done. His book states that our brain is not designed to be a file cabinet. We need to empty our minds of the numerous to-do things we are storing there. Take a piece of paper and jot down all the items you find yourself thinking about. Once they are down on paper, it frees the brain to be more creative.

David Allen’s book goes into much more detail, having you capture all the open and unscheduled tasks/activities that fill your life. It is a major undertaking. However, the sense of freedom is incredible once all those items are put into a plan and schedule.

I de-cluttered my office the other day and it makes me feel more in charge of my life. My work area is clean and neat. That makes it much easier to focus. Try it. You might be surprised what a difference de-cluttering your mind and work area makes.

Stress

Stress is a drain on our energy. It causes physical reactions and interferes with sleep, which causes further problems. The current uncertainty of Corona virus weighs on everyone, increasing our stress levels. Creativity suffers when stress increases.

Exercise may be a partial answer for some. I have the good fortune to own horses, so I can go for a ride on my property and after an hour in the saddle, I’ve had a good workout and lost any stress I might have been carrying.

Find whatever technique helps you cope with stress. Listening to music may help. One thing I can guarantee: watching hours of TV reporting on the virus situation will not reduce your stress.

Less Time

It might seem odd that I list having less time as one of my reasons for not being productive, since not going anywhere should free up time. Oddly enough, I’m spending more time cooking and baking. I’m sewing face masks for those you need them. De-cluttering takes time. Since the spring weather in FL is the best time to do outdoor projects, my husband and I have been tackling the outdoor to-do list for our 15 acres. So, we’re keeping busy.

The major reason I find myself having less time for writing is the wealth of learning opportunities that have opened up on-line. Many of my writing organizations have offered on-line workshops and training sessions. SCBWI has provided multiple amazing (free to members) workshops. I’m learning all about Zoom!

Getting Things Done

In summary, lack of focus, stress, and less time have been eroding my writing productivity. But, getting things done begins with motivation. Break your task or project into smaller pieces and set a reward for completing each piece. The more manageable a task, the better, and the more you grant yourself a reward you cherish, the more motivated you’ll be. Stay focused, let go of stress, and carve out some time to write.

Now, I’m off to bake some brownies so I can have a reward for writing the next 500 words of my WIP.