Schedule = Focus and Productivity
During my two decades working in television, I always had enforced structure to keep me on track. Whether going into a writers' room every day or delivering episodic scripts on a deadline, the rhythm of the industry provided built-in guardrails for my time. But after COVID-19 and the transition to remote work, I’ve had to manage my own schedule.
As a scribbler with ADHD and a lot of projects on my plate, staying focused without that external framework has been a challenge. So, I’ve developed a schedule that helps me stay disciplined while allowing room for creativity and flexibility. I’m sharing it here in case it helps you navigate similar challenges in your creative craft.
The Basics
Mornings: Always for deep focus work on screenplays or pitches, my core competency and biggest source of income potential.
Afternoons: A mix of creative exploration (game design, blog management) and, later in the week, time for personal visits or recreational opportunities.
Evenings: Reserved for shallow focus tasks like research, professional development, or blog editing.
Three Walks a Day
I take three 2.5-mile walks daily - morning, midday, and late afternoon. They give me time to dictate ideas, brainstorm projects, research via audiobooks, or even have conversations with myself (like this one) to clarify my thoughts. Second, they provide much-needed physical activity. I spend way too much of my time sitting at a desk, and these walks help stave off physical decline.
A Question of Priorities
Each morning, after my first walk, I ask myself these questions to make sure I’m focusing on what matters most:
Deadlines: Is there a task or project with an urgent deadline?
Dependents: Is someone waiting on me to deliver something?
Financial Viability: Will this generate revenue or advance my career?
Focus Fit: Does this align with my current focus for today?
Energy Check: Am I ready to hit this, or should I adjust my plan?
These questions keep me from drifting into distractions and ensure my work aligns with my goals.
Monday–Wednesday (Core Focus Days)
My most productive days, dedicated to screenplay and pitch work.
Morning: Screenplay writing or pitch development (deep work).
Afternoon: Continuation of morning work to ensure momentum.
Evening: Light tasks like blog updates or syllabus tweaks.
Thursday–Friday (Flexible Focus Days)
These days start the same way but with flexible afternoons.
Morning: Screenplay writing (staying consistent).
Afternoon: Either creative work (like game design) or personal visits with friends.
Evening: Blog, professional development, or research.
Saturday–Sunday (Weekend Flex Days)
I use the early mornings for smaller projects or planning the week to come. After 11:00 AM, I spend time with family or relax, leaving space for inspiration or light creative work.
Why This Works for Me
Structure Meets Flexibility: I know exactly what I’m doing each day, but I’m holding space for energy levels or priorities.
Priority Questions Keep Me Focused: Guardrails to keep me from wandering off into low-priority tasks.
Walks Unlock Creativity and Keep Me Sciatica-free: They give me time to think and brainstorm while ensuring I get physical movement during my otherwise sedentary workday.
Creative Synergy: Blog content sharpens my scribbling, informs my game design experiments, and feeds my storytelling skills.
If you struggle to manage your time, try building a schedule that prioritizes your most important work. Ask questions to guide your attention, and don’t forget to leave space for flexibility. Walks (or another daily physical or mindful ritual) can act as a reset, clear your mind, and uncover fresh ideas.
Whether balancing multiple creative projects or just trying to finish one, a clear plan and a focus on what matters most can make all the difference. And remember, you’re not facing the blank page alone. You have your scribbler’s toolbox. So, ABW. Always. Be. Writing.
