Let’s face it—writing a book doesn’t just happen.

Between day jobs, family, marketing tasks, and the occasional existential crisis, finding time to write can feel impossible. But with a solid time management plan, authors can go from scattered and stressed to focused and productive.

Here’s how.

Why Time Management Matters for Writers

Most writers don’t suffer from lack of talent—they suffer from lack of time. Or more specifically, lack of control over their time.

A well-structured time management plan helps you:

• Make consistent progress on your writing

• Reduce burnout and creative fatigue

• Balance writing with marketing, editing, and life

• Actually finish what you start

Let’s break down a few time-tested methods that work for real authors with real lives.

1. Block Scheduling: Your Best Friend

What it is: You divide your day into chunks (or "blocks") of time, each dedicated to a specific task—writing, email, social media, etc.

Why it works: It helps you stay focused, avoid multitasking, and ensures writing doesn’t always fall to the bottom of your to-do list.

Example Plan:

• 6:00–6:30 AM: Morning routine

• 6:30–8:00 AM: Writing block (1,000+ words)

• 12:00–12:30 PM: Admin (emails, DMs)

• 8:00–8:30 PM: Reading or outlining

👉 Pro tip: Use a physical planner or Google Calendar to map it out weekly.

2. The Pomodoro Technique: Great for Distracted Brains

What it is: Write for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. After 4 cycles, take a longer 15–30 minute break.

Why it works: It keeps you from burning out and helps build writing stamina over time.

Best for: Writers who tend to procrastinate or get overwhelmed by long writing sessions.

3. Set Word Count Goals (But Be Flexible)

Daily word count targets are motivating—but they shouldn’t feel like a punishment.

Tips for success:

• Know your baseline (start small—maybe 500 words/day)

• Build up gradually

• Forgive off-days

• Track your progress weekly, not daily

Remember: Consistency beats intensity every time.

4. Use “Themed” Days

Organize your week by theme so you’re not switching gears constantly. For example:

• Monday: Research + planning

• Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday: Writing

• Friday: Marketing + email list

• Saturday: Editing or outlining

• Sunday: Rest or catch-up

This method is gold for authors who juggle client work, kids, or side hustles.

5. Eliminate the Time Sucks

Some of the biggest time-wasters for authors?

• Over-checking email and social media

• “Research” that turns into YouTube rabbit holes

• Trying to write/edit/market all at once

Use site blockers, batch tasks, and treat your writing like an appointment—not a hobby.

6. Know Your Energy Zones

Are you sharper in the morning? Or more creative after dark?

Build your time management plan around when you do your best thinking—not when others say you should write.

Final Thought: Make the Plan Work for You

Every author’s schedule looks different. The goal isn’t to become a productivity robot—it’s to build a writing rhythm that supports your creativity instead of stifling it.

Start small. Track what works. Adjust as needed.

Because the truth is, you do have time to write. You just need a plan that helps you use it well.