Making the Most of a Moment: Opportunities for When to Fit in Writing to Achieve Goals!

It's a universal truth that life can get beyond busy sometimes, and finding time to write often feels like a challenge - but the truth is, you don’t need perfect conditions or hours of uninterrupted time to make progress. The key is to embrace unconventional moments and spaces where you can squeeze in some writing, so consider these ideas for identifying the best times and places to fit writing into your daily life.

During Your Commute 🚂

If you take public transport to work or school, this can be prime writing time - use a notebook, tablet, or your phone to jot down ideas, write a few paragraphs, or brainstorm scenes. You’re already sitting still, so make the most of it! The background noise of a train or bus can be surprisingly inspiring for some writers, too. Consider downloading a writing app like Scrivener or Google Docs on your phone for easy access to your projects on the go.

Waiting for Appointments 🩺

Whether it’s a doctor’s office, a job interview, or your child’s after-school activity, waiting rooms are great for writing. Instead of scrolling through social media, use that time to add to your manuscript or brainstorm new ideas. Writing on a phone screen can take some getting used to, but we're nothing if not adaptive! Short, focused bursts of writing can yield surprising results, and te distraction-free environment (aside from magazines!) can help you focus.

At the Airport or on a Plane ✈️

Airports and flights offer a unique opportunity to dive into your writing, since there's really not a whole lot of other things you could be doing! The downtime while waiting for boarding or the long hours in the air can be turned into productive writing sessions. You never know what the sense of being “in between” places can inspire fresh ideas. Just be sure to bring a notebook or device with a long-lasting battery so you can work offline during your flight.

Early Mornings or Late Nights 🌅🌙

Carving out quiet time before the household wakes up or after everyone goes to bed can be ideal for writing. These peaceful hours allow for uninterrupted creativity, with no interruptions from emails, calls, or daily responsibilities. These quieter hours present the chance to reflect and write without the noise of the day, one that could be integrated into your daily ritual, right beside your cup of tea!

During Lunch Breaks at Work 🍴

Your lunch hour can be more than just a time to eat - it can also be a mini writing session. Find a quiet corner, open your laptop or notebook, and use those precious minutes to move your project forward! A mental break from work tasks can recharge your creativity, and writing during lunch can help you stay consistent even on busy days. But remember to prioritise your wellbeing - if something other than a writing session with serve you better, go with it. Follow your intuition!

While Waiting for Kids’ Activities 🏀

Parents often find themselves waiting during sports practices, music lessons, or playdates, so instead of just scrolling on your phone or whatnot, consider using that time to write or brainstorm! This is a great an opportunity to focus while your child is occupied, and those moments can add up to significant progress over time.

In Parks, Cafes, or Libraries 🌳☕📚

Changing your environment can really inspire creativity. Parks, cafes, and libraries provide a mix of ambiance, focus, and comfort that can be perfect for writing. Not only can a new setting spark fresh ideas and fuel creativity, but it help you escape distractions at home.

Be sure to bring headphones if you prefer a quieter workspace or need to block out background noise.

While Meal Prepping or Doing Chores 🍳🧹

Sometimes writing isn’t about putting words on the page - it’s about brainstorming and planning. Use mindless tasks like cooking or cleaning to think through plot points, dialogue, or character arcs. Physical tasks can free your mind to wander creatively, and you’ll feel productive on two fronts—household tasks and writing.

During Quiet Weekends or Holidays 🌴

If your weekends or holidays include downtime, dedicate part of that time to writing. Even 30 minutes before heading out or after an activity can add up to meaningful progress, and help boost your mood for the rest of the day! As well, you’re usually already in a more relaxed mindset, which can help creativity flow and improve focus.

Hacking Voice Memos: Capturing Ideas on the Go 🎙️

Voice memos are a lifesaver for busy writers! Whether you’re commuting, walking, or cooking, recording ideas on your phone lets you capture inspiration instantly. A quick memo can preserve dialogue, plot points, or brainstorms without needing pen and paper. Label them clearly for easy reference when you can, and revisit later to integrate those sparks into your writing. Perfect for making the most of every spare moment - hello Siri, Alexa, and Google!

Final Thoughts 💭

Writing doesn’t always require a desk or hours of uninterrupted time, so by spotting pockets of opportunity in your day (whether it’s during your commute, at the airport, or while waiting for an appointment), you can turn even the busiest schedule into a creative one. Remember the bottom line, though: life is about balance, and writing is here to enhance it. Listen to your intuition, and write when it serves you best! ✍✨