The year 2023 has come to a close, and many of us have set goals, resolutions, or lofty aspirations for 2024. But before you jump in head first, I’d like to make a suggestion. If you’re a writer, and if you’re reading this you probably are, it’s important to take time to assess the previous year, make some adjustments, and (heaven forbid!) rest. I’ve been at this for a while now, and though everyone’s system will be different, I want to share some time management tips to help you avoid burnout and manage your time well in 2024.

Tip #1 Keep a Log

If you’re not using a time tracker, you are missing out on a crucial tool in your writing belt. Keeping a time log is a great way to track the amount of time you spend actually writing. It’s a great way to keep track of all your nonwriting tasks, too. You won’t know how much time you’re spending on marketing, editing, research, etc., if you aren’t using a log system of some kind.

I use Toggl, which is easy to manage, can be used seamlessly via the mobile app and the website, and has lots of great features to help me keep track of all my different projects. Data and reports are available whenever I need them, and I love it. The hardest part is remembering to start and stop the timer.

Here’s what this past year looked like for me:

As you can see, my biggest time bubble last year was marketing, followed by drafting. The smallest time bubbles were research and education (or professional development). This visual shows me what’s eating the most of my time, so I can make adjustments and avoid burnout. I released my debut novel, Olawu, this year, so my marketing numbers are high. I’m really pleased with last year’s productivity overall, but this year I’d like to spend more time doing professional development and less time marketing. Which brings me to the next tip.

Tip #2 Do Regular Time Checks

Even if you’re using a time tracker, you’ll need to be proactive about your time management throughout the year. Don’t wait until December to check your numbers. I’d recommend monthly or quarterly checks, depending on how frequently you’re writing. If you’re just starting out, quarterly checks may be all you need. But for more consistent writers, those monthly checks are vital.

I use a spreadsheet to keep track of my time logs, which also calculates my monthly and quarterly numbers to help me stay on track. I’ve also got minimum and maximum monthly limits to make sure I’m not slacking off or overdoing it. Much like you’d budget your money, it’s important to budget your time wisely.

Tip #3 Be Intentional About Breaks

Typically, I take the end of the year and/or the beginning of the following year to decompress and plan. I do this to give myself time to assess the past year and analyze what worked, what didn’t, and what adjustments need to be made for better success. It’s extremely difficult to try and map out the following year’s goals with current tasks breathing down your neck, so I don’t recommend doing both simultaneously.

Take a break. Give your mind time to rest. Start your year a little late, or end it a little early, or plan a break mid-year. Intentionality is the key here. If you know you’re taking a break in June, don’t plan any big marketing campaigns around that time. If you overdo it, you’ll start to hate the work and burn yourself out. Please don’t do that to yourself.

Tip #4 Reduce Social Media Distractions

This one can be really difficult, but it’s so important. Scrolling through Social Media can eat up a lot of free time. Sometimes it’s market research, but often it’s just mindless scrolling. If you’re taking a break, social media may tempt you to work when you should be resting. Don’t take the bait.

There are apps and phone settings you can use to limit the amount of time you spend on social media. If self-regulation isn’t working, I’d recommend trying one of those options. You don’t have to go cold turkey, but one of the easiest ways to stop yourself from doing something is to replace it with something else. Fill your calendar with outings, or crafts, or reading time, or puzzles and games. Set a daily timer for a nap (because you probably need one). Catch up on the laundry (It’s ALWAYS there).

I’ll be taking the month of January off to do my annual planning, but I figured I’d share these parting thoughts before I go. I hope they help you reach your time management goals in 2024.

That’s my Write or Die Advice. Happy Managing, and Happy New Year!