Holiday Writing 101...

It's my favorite time of the year! The Christmas movies are on, lights are strung everywhere, and there are parties galore to attend. I'll be singing Christmas songs, and playing Pandora holiday music all day long.

There's shopping to be done, and gifts to be wrapped. Dinner to cook, rehearsals to practice, and Church to attend. Don't forget we've got presents to be opened in the end.

Was there something that I forgot on that list? Of course, when will we have time to write?

It's so easy to get bogged down by all the holiday events. As a result, we will forget or convince ourselves that we simply don't have time to write.

Despite the barrage of activities to be performed, you can still find time to write with these simply, yet easy tips.

1. Create a daily schedule - It's impossible to accomplish everything. Select what's most important to you to complete each day. Write those things on your schedule, and determine the amount of time it will take to accomplish each task. Don't forget to configure time for the inevitable mishaps. Then take advantage of small breaks in your schedule to write. It may be a mere 20 minutes to a half an  hour. In this time frame you can create an outline, or if you already have one, you can begin to focus on the individual tasks, bringing you one step closer to your goal. You will feel accomplished as you tick items off your list.
   
2. Make family a priority - Despite that daunting list of activities that you must complete, you cannot let your family feel forgotten. Whether you spend time watching holiday movies, singing songs, baking, shopping, or creating new traditions they are the most essential part of your holiday experience. Spending time with your family will not only cause you to feel refreshed, but relieves that feeling of guilt. You don't have to worry about putting everything before them, because you actually have made them a priority. After that time spent, you will be well ready to expunge a little creativity.  
3. Stay dedicated - We don't always accomplish the goals we set. Things pop up that are just beyond our control. However, you must remember what your goal is and stay focused on it. Maybe, you did not get to write for the 20 minutes you planned for, or maybe you did not write what you wanted to write. It's okay. There's always tomorrow. 
4. Be genuine - Let your writing reflect your heart and passion. It's the holidays and there are so many new books being released, beautiful covers, and creative ideas. It's okay to take inspiration from everything going on, but don't lose yourself in it. Stay true to your writing style, allowing your authentic voice to be heard. I sometimes struggle with this myself. I simply go back and read it out loud and then I know. I know if it's me, or if it's an amalgamation of other ideas I have been exposed to. 
5. The season is your muse - Bask in the creativity, festiveness, joy, and love of the season. Soak it up in your soul and allow your creative spirit to be released. Flow with whatever is inside of you at that moment, and let it pour out on paper. You can always go back and edit later, but don't stop the creativity from flowing.
   

Regardless of what goes on this season, don't give up on writing, but most important don't forget to enjoy the season, and show some love. <3 <3<3

Happy Holidays!
Chelle Ramsey - Living Life Beautifully Inspired!