How to Go Offline to Write
With the control social media has on people these days, it can be difficult to disconnect. Authors can be especially attached to apps such as Twitter, TikTok, and Instagram due to the accessibility they have to talk to fans and to stay active within the writing community.
But if an author is to meet goals and deadlines, they must disconnect from online distractions in order to write. To disconnect from online and create an offline writing environment, here are some suggestions:
Turn off Internet Access: Disable Wi-Fi on your computer or switch your phone to airplane mode to remove online temptations. If you need to use your computer for writing, consider using software that blocks access to the internet during your designated writing time.
Use Pen and Paper: If you don’t have a writing software that blocks access to the internet, consider writing with pen and paper instead of using digital devices. This eliminates the temptation to browse the internet or get distracted by notifications. Writing by hand can also enhance your creativity and keep you deeply connected with your thoughts.
Find a Distraction-Free Space: Choose a location where you can focus solely on your writing without interruptions. It could be a quiet room, an outdoor environment, a coffee shop, a library, or any place where you can concentrate.
Leave Research for Later: This can be a tough one, especially if you are a detail-oriented writer, but if your writing requires research, consider leaving it until after your dedicated offline session. Jot down notes on areas that need further exploration and focus on writing the draft without interrupting the flow by searching for information online.
Set Clear Boundaries: Communicate your writing time and boundaries to those around you. Let your family, friends, or roommates know when you are dedicating time to write and request their support in minimizing distractions during those times. Texts and shared posts can be tempting! On the other hand, if you’re a writer mom, you can always request a babysitter for these offline periods or ask your partner to take care of things until you’re offline writing time is complete.
Create a Writing Routine: Establish a consistent writing routine that includes dedicated offline writing sessions. By incorporating regular writing time into your daily or weekly schedule, you can train your mind to focus during those specific periods.
Remove Digital Distractions: If you prefer to write on your computer, remove any distractions from your writing environment. Close unnecessary applications, log out of social media accounts, and silence or turn off notifications.
Prioritize Focus Techniques: Explore techniques that help you stay focused and immersed in your writing. This could include techniques like the Pomodoro Technique (working in focused bursts with short breaks), using noise-cancelling headphones, or playing instrumental music to help you concentrate.
Remember, going offline to write is about creating an environment that minimizes distractions and allows you to fully immerse yourself in the writing process. Experiment with different strategies and find what works best for you in terms of maximizing focus and productivity. This can be especially important when you have a hard deadline to meet.
