Tag: Denise M. Colby

Keeping the Writing Momentum Going

Deadlines definitely help keep the writing momentum going. But what do you do when you don’t have a deadline? How do you keep up with all the marketing, promoting, and other things writers need to do and still write?

It seems during a book launch I’m busy posting, writing blog posts for guest blogs, and pursuing book signing opportunities (which I have two this month – so excited!).

I’ve also been on vacation for a week where I didn’t do anything. I think that’s why I’m having this mental conversation in my head about what I need to do next. I’ve been removed from my momentum and need to get back to it.

When I don’t touch a story I’m working on for a bit, it slows down my own pacing of getting things done. I’m also in a new dilemna. With the release of my fourth book, that completes my first contract. It also means I do not have a set deadline to deliver the next book to my publisher. I’m finding my own deadlines tend to slide a bit. Does anyone else have that issue?

But with all the stories inside my heart to write still, I’m not done yet.

What exactly is Writing Momentum?

So what do I do first? Secure a contract? Write the book? Finish my newsletter magnet? Spend more time in marketing? I feel like the next step is all clamoring for attention. Which makes me realize I need to set up some new goals and tasks to stay focused. And take a deep breath.

First. I know how to complete a book. With several baby steps. Showing up daily to write, even if it’s just a little bit. Have an accountability partner (which I do – my critique group is awesome).

I think for me one of the most productive things I’ve done is be a part of a zoom writing sprint group. Three days a week I can log in at 7am with a bunch of other authors and know I will move forward on writing, editing, making graphics, or building my newsletter in that time slot. I will also be encouraged, supported, and I learn new things in every 5 minute conversation we have during the 2 breaks.

I highly recommend this to any author.

Next I need to set some priorities on what to do first. I’ve submitted my first three chapters for a book proposal and can keep working on that story, or pivot and write three chapters on the next one in order to meet my goal of launching a book one time a year. I also need to finish my newsletter magnet. So which one should be first?

Sometimes I feel like it changes based on the day, and being able to pivot amongst all of them is important. Do any of you feel the same way?

What Comes Next in my Writing?

As I think through this though, I realize my newsletter magnet is an important part of my marketing. With my deadlines, I did not have time to write one. But while editing and planning the launch of A Whole New Plan, I wrote an eight-chapter novelette that is now being edited. Finishing this will allow me to participate in newsletter swaps, book funnel promos, and other things while I’m writing the next set of books.

I believe that my newsletter magnet then is at the top of my priority list. Wouldn’t you agree?

Then, depending on if I hear back on my proposal yet or not, I might start writing the next book proposal to secure a deadline for that book. But we will see. Like I said earlier, writers need to be nimble when working on multiple things at the same time. Having other writers to bounce ideas off of can help.

If you aren’t a part of a writing group, find one! Many are on zoom now, so location to join doesn’t matter. Want some suggestions? Here are groups I’ve been a part of for years.

Denise loves to share about her writing journey (see all her posts here), including her word of the year (this year it is BALANCE), writing her Best-laid Plans Series, and all the things in between. You can visit her at her website and blog at www.denisemcolby.com or on her facebook or instagram. Please note: some links include Amazon Associate links where Denise can earn from qualifying purchases.