Ever wonder how to juggle multiple writing projects without feeling overwhelmed? In today’s post, I talk about practical strategies for balancing writing projects while staying productive and meeting deadlines. Whether you're tackling different genres, experimenting with new ideas, or simply trying to manage your time effectively, these tips will help you keep everything on track without burning out.
I break down techniques for organizing tasks, staying motivated, and handling the inevitable stress that comes with managing multiple projects. Below you’ll find my top tips for working on several books but there are even more in the video! Make sure you check out my YouTube channel so you don’t miss out.
Taking a Much-Needed Break
It’s been a few weeks since I last posted, and that’s because I recently took some time off for a family vacation in New Brunswick. We stayed in a remote cottage—no internet, no work—just lots of family time (and plenty of mosquito bites!). It was a perfect opportunity to recharge.
Though I stayed somewhat online, I felt it was essential to truly disconnect. Now that I’m back, I’m ready to dive into new projects and share more with you all.
Balancing Multiple Writing Projects
One of the most common questions I get is: how do I balance working on multiple writing projects at the same time? Right now, I have a book due to my publisher in the fall, a new cozy mystery in my Orchard Hollow series coming out, and I’m also working on a personal passion project—a gothic mystery. Balancing all of this can be a challenge, but over time, I’ve developed strategies that help me stay on track.
Here are my top tips for juggling multiple projects without losing your mind:
1. Prioritize Your Projects
It’s tempting to jump into every shiny new idea, but when you’re managing multiple projects, you have to be strategic. Prioritize based on deadlines, financial benefit, and long-term goals. For example, my ghostwriting and publisher contracts often take priority because they come with clear deadlines and payment structures. My personal passion project, although exciting, gets lower priority since it’s not yet earning me any money.
2. Find a Schedule That Works for You
Creating a schedule is crucial. For me, my best writing time is in the morning, from around 9 AM to noon. I slot my top-priority project into this time. Later in the day, I handle tasks like editing, client calls, or coaching sessions. If you have a full-time job, you might need to carve out small chunks of time—like an hour before work or after dinner—to dedicate to your writing projects. The key is consistency.
3. Stagger the Stages of Work
Try to avoid drafting two projects at once. Writing multiple first drafts simultaneously can be exhausting. Instead, stagger the stages of your work. While I’m drafting one project, I’m usually editing or plotting another. This not only helps with burnout but also ensures you’re making steady progress on each project without them blending together.
4. Separate Themes, Tones, and Voices
When juggling multiple genres or projects, it’s easy for the lines to blur. Make sure you clearly define the mood, tone, and character voice for each project before you start. This helps avoid blending stories, especially if you’re working on different genres like cozy mysteries and gothic thrillers.
By keeping these elements distinct, it’s easier to switch between projects without losing focus.
Final Thoughts
Balancing multiple writing projects can be tricky, but it’s absolutely doable with the right strategies in place. Prioritize, schedule, stagger your work, and ensure each project has a clear identity. Most importantly, give yourself grace when things don’t go as planned.
I hope these tips help you stay productive and focused on your writing journey! If you have any questions or suggestions for future topics, leave them in the comments.
Until next time, happy writing!
