When I’m the busiest, I always have the most ideas for a book and the biggest urge to write. And, of course, this is when I have the least amount of time to devote to a WIP or new project. This summer alone, I’ve thought of an idea for a new book series, named the characters, and already dreamed up a whole set of covers. I won’t mention that I’m over halfway into a current WIP that I need to finish by fall for a Christmas release, and currently avoiding the WIP that’s 90% finished and needs editing.
When my mind is so full of ideas, it’s hard for me to focus on one thing. I’m constantly thinking about what I need to do next and skipping around from project to project instead of finishing the task at hand. However, when I stop and take a step back, I’m actually much more productive when I have a lot on my plate. I’ve learned to be resourceful with little pockets of time, and I get so much more accomplished when my to-do list is the longest.
Outside of my day job and writing, I’ve also taken on some new projects this year. It’s been fun to expand my creativity with cover design. I’ve been a graphic designer for years and designed all of my own covers, but this new opportunity to work with some amazing authors and draw custom characters has been amazing. These are just a few of the projects I’ve worked on with several more to come. 
Here are a few tips that have helped keep me focused this summer:
- Writing sprints with friends hold me accountable to get in those words!
- Reading and listening to books helps keep me motivated to write my own
- Set small goals to complete a task/finish a chapter/work on a cover design before I move on to something new, and then I can reward myself with something fun (like watching a TV show or going to Marshalls with my daughter)
So far this summer, it’s worked for me! It’s all about balance. Yes, I’ve got a lot on my plate, but I also can manage it much better when I make the most of my time. I love it when I’m productive!
Here’s a sneak peek at my WIP coming up this Christmas.
The Thing About Mistletoe Kisses
Year after year, Stella has watched couples fall in love at the town gazebo. After all, it is smack dab in direct sight of her family’s Christmas tree stand. She’s seen her fair share of kisses under the mistletoe but never been on the receiving end of one.
Rett gave up on love years ago. After being left at the alter, he swore off ever finding his happy ending. Instead, he joined the military, left town, and hasn’t been back to River Ridge since. Now that his tour is over, home is the only place he has to go.
When Stella’s family needs help at the tree farm this season, he takes the job, thinking he’ll be able to keep to himself. But her cheery demeanor clashes with his grumpy mood, and he’s finding out this job isn’t what he expected.
Rett’s plan is to tolerate Stella and stay as far away from her as he can. What he doesn’t know is that she has a plan of her own. She’s slowly chipping away at the icy exterior he hides behind, and before long, she might see him for who he truly is.
What are some things you to do to make the most of your time or keep yourself motivated? I’d love to hear your thoughts.
K. Leah is a hopeless romantic and adores a good Hallmark movie. Growing up in the South, she likes her tea sweet and coffee strong. Family and faith are what matter most and she wears many hats, including being a wife, mom, and graphic designer. Other than being creative with designs or stories, she likes to spend her free time escaping reality into the pages of a sweet love story.
My nanna always used to say ‘If you want something done, ask a busy woman’ and I think it’s true.
I loved the pictures you did of Elizabeth Maddrey’s billionaires, she had them in her newsletter this week and they look great.
I love having a list to keep me motivated, it’s very satisfying to tick things off, and if I haven’t got round to them yet just adding them to the list makes me feel I’m doing something.
I like to make a list of what I hope to accomplish each day and mark them off as I finish them. The ones that aren’t completed, I add to the next day, and make them priority that day.
Thank you! I love lists too. I use them a lot at work.
I love lists too! Sometimes if I do a task I didn’t have on my list, I’ll write it down just so I can mark it off. lol!
I read!! I also take breaks between reading and making cards, or reading different genre’s at the same time. I sometimes make lists of what I need to do, because it is satisfying to cross something off!
It is very satisfying to cross things off a list!
I volunteer for Proverbs 31 ministries on their First 5 Facebook group as an encourager. I volunteer on Monday’s and Fridays. Since I am disabled, it gives me something productive to do with my time. I also read ARC’s for writers and help to spread the word about their new books. Thank you so much for sharing. God bless you.
This is a wonderful way to spend your time. I’m sure the authors you read for are very appreciative of your help.