When I first began my freelance writing career, the World Wide Web was still in its infancy. Google did not exist. There was no Facebook, no YouTube. We barely used email.
In many ways, the simplicity of that bygone era (which really was not very long ago) was a blessing. Sure, you had to actually drive to the library to do research, rather than enter a few keystrokes into a search engine. But, it was so much easier to focus. The advent of the Internet has fundamentally changed the speed at which the world operates, putting everything into hyperdrive and providing limitless distractions. The lure of social media, instant chat and other cyber-amenities can make it hard to get work done. Here are three tips to staying focused while writing, so you can meet important deadlines and keep your clients happy:
Unplug from the Internet – Turn off wi-fi or disconnect your modem cable so that you’re not able to surf the Web while you work. It’s too easy to be researching a topic and suddenly find yourself watching 45 minutes of cat videos. The best way to avoid driving down the road to distraction is to take the wheels off the car, at least temporarily.
Turn off instant notifications – If you need Web access while you work, at least turn off the instant pop-up notifications from your email and instant messenger. Even catching a glimpse of a message can be enough to entice you away from your work and into someone else’s conversation. Pretend you’re at an important meeting with company executives, and set a boundary for yourself to prevent interruptions.
Find your happy place – Many freelance writers enjoy working from home, but distractions still abound. Laundry needs to be done, the cat won’t leave you alone, and the TV is calling your name. If you choose work from home, create a workspace that keeps you happy. Whether it’s a simple desk or a separate room, surround yourself with images that inspire and all of the tools you need to accomplish the task at hand. That way, you will be less inclined to leave your seat and procrastinate with other pursuits. If working from home is a challenge, find a local coffee shop, grab a desk at the neighborhood library, or arrange an office-share with another creative. Create a space that is solely dedicated to writing, so that you switch into “productive mode” as soon as you enter this sacred realm.
The great 20th century writers you studied in school didn’t have the Internet, and still they not only survived, but thrived in their craft. By establishing boundaries and unplugging from the world around you, you will be able to stay laser-beam focused on your writing, knocking out assignments and building a thriving career.
What is your method of staying focused while you work? I would love to hear it! Drop me a line through the Contact page, and let me know the secrets to your success!