Eight Easy Steps to Accomplishing More Writing Goals Every Week

Author: Dawn Colclasure

A "to do" list can be extremely helpful in managing a variety of writing projects. Whether you create your "to do" list on the computer, on paper, a dry-erase board, or even on the back of a flyer, creating and using such a list will help you accomplish a variety of goals. But don't just create a daily “to do” list, create a list you can use for an entire week.

There's nothing more motivating than knowing you have things to do and a plan to make them happen. To get you started, here are eight tips to help you create and use your own weekly "to do" list.

Use A Blank Paper
Locate a blank sheet of paper; it can be plain or lined paper. Ideally, you want this sheet of paper to be clear, clean and without some advertisement or local news on the back of it. (More on why later.) If it's easier, use a dry-erase board, but leave plenty of room for notes.
Create A Chart
Create a chart for each day of the week.

Write the following: MON | TUES | WED | TH | FRI | SAT | SUN on a single line, leaving ample room below each letter to list your tasks.

There is no need to draw lines to create an actual chart, unless it makes it easier for you to follow. Just create a line under each letter, then make sure your entire chart is viewable at a glance.
Write Down Your Tasks
Write down the writing-related things you have to do this week, assigning each task to one of the days on your chart. Keep the description of your task simple and specific and when possible, limit your weekly tasks to 12 items or less.

Write down every single thing you must do for that week; there's no task too small (such as mailing an article) or too large (such as formatting a manuscript). Feel free to personalize and decorate your weekly “to do” list as long as you keep doodling, pictures and stickers to a minimal and away from your written material.
Prioritize Your Tasks
Be sure to prioritize your tasks. Write the most important task on Monday, so you can get it done and out of the way and make sure to give yourself ample time to complete larger tasks. If you know a task is a large one, be sure you schedule time to work on it during the rest of the week, then on the days you work on this task, schedule “light” tasks to fill up the rest of the day.

For example, one important task on my list was to update my website, which had faced several months of neglect. I made it a priority, allocating it to a Monday task, but since it was a big task it took two days to accomplish.
Keep Your List Viewable
Keep your list where you can see it every day; on your desk or on the wall near your computer. This way, it serves as a visual reminder.
Mark Off Completed Tasks
On Monday, start tackling the tasks you need to get done for that day, then cross off tasks as you complete them.

If you finish all of your Monday tasks and still have time for more work, prepare for the next day's tasks. Make notes, set out everything you need, make phone calls to arrange a meeting or to set things in motion, and/or find any necessary information you will need to complete the next day's project. This way, you’ll save time and get that task completed faster.
Move Uncompleted Tasks
Move any incomplete tasks to the back of your list, or to the side of your dry-erase board. Note why you weren’t able to complete the task (no time, no transportation, no money, not enough resources) then make plans to finish that task on another day, or week. (I once had to move a task to the following week because I received the wrong contract in the mail.)
Know When To Call It Quits
If you complete all your tasks for a given day, resist the temptation to start working on the tasks you have assigned for Tuesday. If you have free time left, reward yourself. Go see a movie with friends, enjoy a cup of coffee, or take a long hot bath. You’ve earned it!

Once your week is up, take stock of what you've accomplished and what you have yet to complete. Then put the ongoing projects and incomplete tasks on your weekly “to do” list for next week.

Now that you have a plan to achieve more writing in your week, put a weekly “to do” list to work for you!

Eight Easy Steps to Accomplishing More Writing Goals Every Week

Author: Dawn Colclasure

Use A Blank Paper

Create A Chart

Write Down Your Tasks

Prioritize Your Tasks

Keep Your List Viewable

Mark Off Completed Tasks

Move Uncompleted Tasks

Know When To Call It Quits