I have found that writing falls into two categories: intensive writing and intensive down-time. I have either been viciously typing away at the keys or I have been staring at the keyboard, sometimes trying to remember how it works. Some writers may have a happy medium between the two opposites, but for most it seems it is either feast or famine. We all know what to do with the writing times; write, and get as much on paper as possible. The times of austerity, however, can be tricky to manage, as the creative rivers all but dry up. Here are some of the things that I do when I have no major projects on hand.
First, I research for future projects. What do I research, you may ask? Well, I read fervently and learn my material; anything that catches my eyes becomes a possible idea. Is your book historical? Know your information and dates? Are you writing about science? Learn the language of the field and the function of the sciences. Be fully prepared for your work and read everything! I have studied articles, books on various subjects ranging from mythology to Wicca, and mentally consumed my fair share of ghost stories. You may remember these were some of my avenues of inspiration. I am currently researching stuff on Wicca for my next novel. I may not have mentioned much about this current project yet, but soon I will give you some details on book 2. Researching is important to the whole scope of the endeavor, as it gets you in line with the reality of the story and helps to prepare you for the flowing of the rivers again. Do you neglect your research. More on this later.
Second, I edit heavily. You may not be able to write, but you can edit like crazy. Take the document, a large cup of coffee/tea/milk/Bailey’s/etc. and read like mad. I try to edit when I finish the document, but sometimes it piles up on me. Those downtimes are wonderful for catching up on the editions and getting them in. Editing takes a lot of time, so use your downtime wisely and set aside an hour or two for editions. It may be tedious, but it sure beats staring at the keyboard.
Third, and perhaps most importantly, I relax. As a writer, you are a bit of an entertainer. You create stories for amusement and pleasure. Sometimes, however, it is nice to simply read someone else’s works and allow your mind to wander. We spend so much of our time crafting tales, editing and researching the story we want to tell, that it is nice to sit back and allow someone else to narrate the adventure. Do not neglect reading, as it is a time for us to enjoy the craft without being totally immersed in the process.
Downtime can sometimes be a pain, especially if deadlines are approaching, but if you have the available time, follow the above strategies and you just may appreciate the idle hours more than you previously thought.
As always, good luck writing!
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