Guest Post by Jennifer Brown Banks
Truth is, no matter how much writers and entrepreneurs love blogging, the summertime can really “suffocate“ creativity if allowed.
And with good reason: fantasies of frolicking at the beach instead of being confined to the computer at home. Endless invitations for cook-outs, weddings, pool parties, social gatherings galore. Especially now that many formerly imposed Covid-19 restrictions have been lifted; no matter where you hang your hat.
Not to mention, the intense heat can feel depleting, stifling… frustrating even. Making it hard to stay focused.
And I should know; this year marks my thirteenth consecutive year as a professional, award-winning blogger.
DIFFICULT DOES NOT MEAN IMPOSSIBLE…
Whether you’re a newbie or veteran, staying the course can be challenging.
But difficult does not mean impossible.
And for those of us who create professionally for a living or operate sites that are monetized, it’s important to maintain momentum in order to put food on the table and consistently meet the demands of our readerships.
WITH THIS IN MIND, HERE ARE SIX HACKS TO HELP YOU STAY FOCUSED AND PRODUCTIVE DURING THE DOG DAYS OF SUMMER.
1. Remember your purpose.
A wise man once wrote: “When you want to quit, remember why you started in the first place.”
Keep this ever-present in your mind during difficult times and amid bouts of writer‘s block.
2. Try something different.
That’s right; what “relationship” isn’t enhanced by a little variety?
For instance, if your blog posts are always short, make them long.
If your tone is always serious, try a playful approach.
If you typically write about local stories, cover something with national significance.
If you post on Fridays, sneak in a Monday post.
Never become boringly predictable.
Change your “look” every once in a while.
3. Broaden your horizon.
With the re-opening of many local businesses and venues around the country, this would be a great time to get out and explore (safely). See the sites. Dine at an outdoor café. Visit a zoo or park. Attend a book signing for a new author. Doing so will re-energize you and give you “food for thought” to enhance your creativity.
4. Keep a journal.
Chronicle personal thoughts, funny family experiences, recipes, and clever ideas for future interesting blog ideas. Amazon has an array of pretty journals for purchase to suit your fancy.
5. Create an Editorial Calendar.
It’s the equivalent of scheduling a regular “date night.”
WHAT ARE EDITORIAL CALENDARS?
For the uninitiated, an Editorial Calendar is simply a way to manage content by planning and scheduling blog posts based around topics, months and themes; many of the magazines you read use them.
Instead of “winging it,” it provides a more organized, functional, systematic approach to blogging.
Did I mention it also combats procrastination?
This results in a blog that is regularly updated, faithfully followed, and favorably recognized by Google’s search engines.
If you’re a blogger that struggles with time management issues and writers’ block, this is the perfect solution to approaching your blog more strategically.
6. Take a pause for the cause.
Sometimes a brief, time-defined break can help to keep you excited, invested, and encouraged. Take some downtime and then level up! There’s a degree of validity to the expression, “absence makes the heart grow fonder.”
Final Thought
Follow these six timely tips for greater progress, productivity, and pay– no matter what time of the year.
Jennifer Brown Banks is an award-winning content creator, editor, poet, and author. She formerly served on the board of directors of the Chicago Writers Association for ten years and is the recipient of their spirit award for 2020. Learn more at her popular site for writers: https://penandprosper.blogspot.com.
