One of the top tips I share with new writers is simple but powerful: stick to a weekly schedule of peak performance activities.
As a 30-time author and publisher, I’ve seen what sets thriving new authors apart—they create and adhere to a disciplined writing schedule. Writing isn’t something you “fit in” when time allows; it’s a commitment to inspired and intentional work. That’s why I always start new authors with a writing plan that outlines their milestones and outcomes.
The best content emerges when you’re in a state of flow—a rhythm of focused, consistent creativity. Without scheduling time for peak performance activities, you risk feeling dislocated, disorganized, and disconnected from the bigger possibilities for you and your book.
The Power of GET CLEAR
To help authors succeed, I developed a scheduling system called GET CLEAR. It fosters creative, consistent thinking, sharpens focus, and leads you toward remarkable results. It’s a framework to channel your energy, visualize the end goal, and create an unforgettable experience—not just for you, but for your readers.
A book isn’t just pages bound together—it’s a living, breathing extension of your message. It’s a doorway to new opportunities:
Connecting with your audience in profound and thought-provoking ways.
Fostering collaboration with individuals who can elevate your work.
Positioning you as a trusted, innovative leader.
Building Your Writing Schedule
To truly succeed, you need to allocate time for all aspects of book creation: big-picture thinking, visualization, research, brand building, writing, and editing. Each of these steps plays a vital role in creating a book that resonates deeply.
Here’s how to start GETTING CLEAR:
1. Determine Your Peak Performance Time. When are you most creative and energized? For me, it’s early mornings, so I write consistently from 5–7 a.m.
2. Separate Writing and Editing. Editing is a different mindset than writing, so schedule editing time later in the week, ideally in the afternoon when you can reflect on your progress.
3. Schedule Research and Data Gathering. Dedicate 1–2 hours per week for research and idea generation.
4. Create Themed Days. Allocate specific days for key activities:
Monday: Dream and Drive—big-picture thinking.
Wednesday: Research and Marketing.
Friday: Writing Day.
5. Stick to a Consistent Routine. Build habits around your most productive times. Early mornings, for example, are when I consciously and consistently write from the heart and soul.
Bringing It All Together
Use the GET CLEAR worksheet (or create your own version) to outline and allocate time for each task. This system will help you stay on track, overcome procrastination, and bring your book to life.
Writing a book is more than putting words on paper—it’s about creating a remarkable and unforgettable experience for both you and your readers. With focus, discipline, and a clear plan, you can transform your ideas into a book that inspires, connects, and opens new doors of possibility.
Don’t wait. List it—or lose it! Start your writing journey today.
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