Last time I talked about overcoming feelings of self-doubt.  Today I’m going to finish up with a summary of thoughts on how to deal with or get around material obstacles for writing.

• Make a list of what your obstacles are. Then make a list of what you might do about them.  They probably are not as insurmountable as you think!

• If time is your issue (either not enough or too much), set specific regular writing times and write in short, focused bursts. Start with very short, doable periods of time and quit while you still have energy and ideas flowing.  Don’t think you can write all day, every day, and don’t waste your writing energy by writing too much or in an unfocused fashion.
• Experiment with different settings and locations. Don’t assume that quiet and solitude are always the best solution.  If you can’t create an ideal situation for yourself, learn how to write in your less than ideal situation anyway.  If you want it, you will make it happen.
• Experiment with different writing implements. A good computer is nice, but not essential for getting started.  Many people find outlining and doing the first draft works better by hand.
• Use visualization and mental composition techniques to get started, especially if you don’t have a lot of time and energy for writing. Even if you do, visualization and mental composition can make the process of actually producing text much faster.
• Make the writing process as pleasant and comfortable as you can, so that you look forward to it and are able to sustain a regular practice. This may involve working around your physical limitations.
• Honor your writing process and yourself by being mindful of your physical posture and mental attitude.

• Train yourself to get into the writing frame of mind by using cues such as sound to signal the beginning and end of a writing session.

Thanks for reading!  Next time we’ll talk about mental blocks and strategies for generating inspiration.