the craft. managing multiple deadlines.

It is getting hot and heavy when it comes to book promo at this point in the publishing journey. We are a little over a month out from publication and a tide is most certainly changing. Thankfully, the interview requests are happening, new opportunities are coming my way and it’s all very exciting. But it’s also hella stressful. Enter an extremely busy time at my full-time job and Sis is overwhelmed in some of the best and worst ways managing multiple deadlines all at once.

I know there may be some writers out there who can focus on one thing at a time. But when you find them, let me know. Most of us are on the grind. Whether it’s balancing full-time work and writing or multiple projects in our best freelance lives. So, it takes a bit of organization and strategy to ensure no balls are being dropped. This week, I wanted to share a few ways I’m managing deadlines surrounding book promo, new stories, screenwriting, and more.

White Board

I don’t know about you, but I like to see it. I have a small whiteboard on my desk where I write out the upcoming deadlines and what’s due. I need that constant reminder because I have a lot swirling around in this here mind. The more I’m seeing what’s next, the more I can make sure I’m showing up for what’s required of me.

Outlining

I hated outlines when I was younger. But now that I am a more experienced writer, I gotta say, those things come in handy. I know that even if I can’t carve out enough time to complete a whole piece, I can at least get some ideas down to make it easier when I do have the time to write it. I want to apply for an upcoming screenwriter’s program and I need to get a spec script done by the end of the month. I’ve started studying the show I want to base the spec script around. Rewatched some episodes and I’ve started a bit of a beat sheet/outline. This way, hopefully when I get the window to work on the script, so much of it will already be there.

Easy Outs First

There’s a dance between timing, what’s due first and also what’s easiest to complete. Some of the work I have to do is fairly simple questionnaires for interviews. Being able to knock those out a little faster, I move those up the list to leave more time for the heavier lifts.

Starting Early

Procrastination serves no one. And yes, it has gotten the best of most of us at times. But I do my best not to wait until the last minute. I have way too much going on for that. To maintain my sanity, I try to get ahead of things as best I can. I have a first draft of a story due in June, and I must start it this month. I want to give myself plenty of time to edit and revise to make sure I’m putting my best foot forward for this great opportunity.

Power Hours

This might seem like a shameless plug, but when I tell you, knowing I have that dedicated hour on Fridays really helps. In my previous role, I had a lot more time for writing during the week. But in my new position, I am beyond exhausted by the conclusion of the day. If I’m not getting writing done before work, it’s not happening. But I at least know that I can make headway on Fridays if nothing else. Make sure you’re signed up to receive our email reminder.

Rest

Might not seem obvious but in this extremely busy season, it’s been important for me to get rest. Writing is not easy when my brain is overloaded. So I try to be conscious of going to bed versus trying to pull the all-nighter just to say I did something. Creativity, specifically writing, does not thrive in tired minds. When you’ve prepped, outlined, started early, etc., you will not feel guilty about rest. I appreciate when I’ve treated myself well the night before and I can wake up in the morning with a fresh brain and knock out something in no time.

What are some of the ways you’re managing your deadlines? Feel free to drop a line in our Slack, share the wealth!

Writing/Job Opportunities

The Presser project at Daily Dot is looking for another batch of pitches at the intersection of internet culture/sports/race. 800-1200 words, ~1-3 sources, and pays ~$450+. http://dailydot.com/presser. Email pitches to ramon@dailydot.com.

Barrellhouse Writer Camp is accepting applications.

Sistah Girls Book Club is accepting short story submissions of 1500 words.

Girls’ Night In is accepting pitches for their weekly newsletter.

Creative Writing Ink is accepting submissions for their 2022 contest.

The Verge is hiring a Creators Editor.

Refinery 29 is hiring a Social Media Editor.

Hello Sunshine is hiring a Coordinator, Web 3.

Pixar is hiring a Junior Publicist.

Haymarket Books is accepting submissions for AAPI writers for an anthology.