Can’t write? Can’t focus? Can’t find the time? 4 alternative writing methods that work.

Welcome to Part 2 of my “Finding your writing process” series.

In my last post, I explored the idea of writing partnership: why collaboration works better than a transactional “write this for me” approach.

But if you don’t consider yourself a writer — if you know that writing and storytelling is not your strong suit — then you might be wondering whether this kind of collaborative process will work for you.

You also might be wondering:

• What if my schedule is bonkers and I don’t have time to write?
• What if every time I sit down to write my thoughts disappear?
• What if I have ADHD, my thoughts jump around a lot, or I have trouble focusing?

All good questions. And all totally valid!

So here is my advice:

Find the process that works for you.

The dominant idea when it comes to a writing process seems to go something like this:

It’s the idea that you get up in the morning — maybe around 5am — and you write for a good chunk of time, maybe 1-3 hours. By the time other people are just having their coffee, you’ve been churning out the words and your book is practically writing itself. Boo-yah! You’re a writing machine!

That’s great — IF it works for you.

But that doesn’t work for everyone.

You are not everybody else.

You are unique. Your story is unique. So why should your writing process be like everyone else’s?

That’s why I use a collaborative, customized approach based on the unique needs of my clients.

(And if you aren’t ready to invest in a writing partner, you can steal my idea here and develop a customized approach for yourself!)

What might this look like? Here are some different models:

The deep dive method.
Some of my clients like to go deep into something; they clear their schedules and then work ‘round the clock for days at a time until it’s done. Then they take a break and move onto the next project. Not for the faint of heart, but it works!

The bite-sized method.
Some of my clients find a little time each day to jot down their thoughts. Maybe it’s right after their morning workout. Or on the couch at the end of the day while enjoying some, shall we say, herbal products. They record their ideas in some form (written or audio), share them with me, and then we work together later to refine and develop their ideas.

The weekly meeting method.
I have standing meetings with some of my clients which we use to brainstorm, write together, or refine their ideas in a collaborative way. This can be as little as a half-hour each week. This means they have a regular spot on their calendar to work on their writing — and gives them some accountability.

The think-out-loud method.
Did you know you don’t actually have to write in order to get something written? Oftentimes my clients record themselves thinking-out-loud. They send me audio recordings, videos, and transcripts, and then we turn these thoughts (often messy and rambling!) into amazing written material.

Which method is right for you?

The best way to find out is to pick one. Try it for a while. See what works.

(Or, if you have a big writing goal ahead of you and you want help achieving it – reach out. Maybe I can help.)

Keep at it. You got this.