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April 30, 2014

Writing Multiple Projects


By Kathy Bruins


In my business, I have several clients that I work for at the same time, along with writing my own projects. The projects range from short jobs to books. I write fiction, nonfiction, curriculum, devotionals, screenplays, dramas, business letters, articles, and more. I truly enjoy the variety of the work I do. Sometimes I am writing four books at the same time. While that may seem overwhelming to some, it is my normal mode of business. I also coach writers, edit, lead a writing group, speak on various topics, and I'm currently forming a speaking critique group. I'm not bored.

There are a couple of things needed to be able to do this. First, you need to be organized. Keep notes, contracts, writings, and research in the same file folder of the client or your own project. Make it easily accessible in a file drawer, especially if you're like me and piles start to grow on the desk. Do not procrastinate when new notes or other information need to be filed. This will increase the chance of new data getting lost. Mark each file clearly for ease in finding it.

Next, use an outline for each project to help you keep on track with your story. When writing the story, end at a place where you can easily pick it back up. Getting into the zone of the writing project quickly will save time from having to read the chapter before. This is especially important when you are writing different genres. Switching from non-fiction to science fiction takes a transformation of mindset. Add notes to the outline as you write to keep your direction clear in case you have to be away from the project for a longer time. Do not think you will remember, because with all the details of multiple projects, most likely you will not remember.

Also, your motivation to work needs to be high, because it is a lot of work. It will be very difficult to keep up with the projects if you are a procrastinator. I have heard that writing can be like homework 24/7, and that is true when you are working on several projects at the same time. This does not mean you need to work 24/7. You need to be able to give your mind a rest and step away from a project when you done working on it for the day. Thinking about your work all the time sums up to working all the time.

Try to set your deadlines at least a couple of weeks in-between the projects. This will give you time to catch up on one that may have fallen behind, or take a breather, as needed.

This type of writing is not for everyone, but it works for me. I love the variety of work I receive and the busyness, and obviously the financial benefits. I would not recommend this for a new writer, but someone who is a bit more seasoned and is able to deliver a project quickly with excellence to a client or an editor. Be careful not to burnout on writing, but be refreshed with the jobs that give you joy.
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Kathy Bruins is a Christian author, speaker and dramatist. Although she has ghostwritten many books for celebrities, organizations and the regular person, she believes everyone has a story and is glad to assist others in reaching their dreams of telling their story. She recently had three books published: Vallikett's Journey (historical fiction), ASeason of God's Daily Influence – Book 1, and the beginning of a new Amish fiction series called Aaron's Quest. Her speaking topics include writing book proposals, Ghostwriting, Creating dramas for Church Use, Spiritual Spa Day (Event); Prayer, Leadership, and Cancer. She implements drama with her speaking engagements when possible. Kathy calls southwest Michigan home, and lives with her husband, John, and lab, Charlie. Please visit Kathy’s website. https://www.facebook.com/kathybruinschristianwriterspeaker



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