Help! I can't focus on my writing!?

Answer 1

The best way to focus is by working from an outline. Lack of focus in authors usually comes from lack of organization and lack of organization leads only to more lack of focus. It is a viscous cycle. Start with a general outline that covers the entire work. Then, work out a sub-outline for each chapter as you are working on it. That will help you a lot.

Also having a lot of research notes and character studies to work with will help you tremendously. So will a black and white marble notebook to brainstorm in when the mood strikes you. I write down everything or use a tape recorder to record thoughts in the car while driving. I am working on more than one project at once (I am an author as well as a ghostwriter for a major sports personality) so I keep a file box beside me with folders carefully labeled for each project. Inside each file is a separate marble notebook for brainstorming on that project.

Another way to get yourself more organized and focused is to write at a specific time every day. I call it my "office hours". Start with a short length of time - maybe half an hour. Then gradually work up to the point that you can write for 5 or 6 hours at a stretch. That doesn't happen overnight. It can take a long time to build up to that. Take your time. When your time is up for the day - stop. You will be able to pick up where you left off if you are working from a good outline. Punch out for the day and go do something pleasant. Some people prefer two shorter writing sessions a day, I prefer one longer one.

Choose the time of the day when you are most creative. I write from 1 - 5 am every morning with naps during the day. I get the most done during those times.

Make your routine precise. Work in the same place, the same pattern. If you have to have coffee while you write, do it that way every time. Make sure your workplace is well organized and comfortable and free of distractions and yet pleasant at the same time. I like a nice view. Hemingway had his manservant lock him in a little building outside his home in Key West for a set length of time each day.

Basically, treat your writing as though it was a job. Focus is all about organization. Try it - you will see the difference almost immediately. Pax - C

Good luck. I am always happy to help out all the young writers here. Pax - C

Answer 2

Get rid of distractions. Disconnect the internet if you have to. Then set an amount that you have to write before you can take a break. Start with 100 words, that's easy enough to do and not intimidating. Then sit there until you get it done.

Answer 3

Go for a walk...Do some free writing (Sitting and just writing anything that comes to mind)....take a nap......call someone on the phone and talk about something other than writing. You just need a break.......

Answer 4

Have a night off - sometimes you're maybe trying to do too much.... Then start again fresh tomorrow.

Answer 5

you're too wound up... put some music on... let your mind go... then take notes later from what you remember.