details

I am not very good at the business side of writing.

I get lost in details and tend to resist too much structure. The creative side of me yearns to be free to create--whatever and whenever the mood strikes me. But I've learned that it's essential for writers--especially freelancers--to balance their creativity with administration. Here are some things that have helped me conduct myself in a more business-like fashion:

• My planner: While I tend to be the computer-savviest author on the Grit team, I prefer pencil and paper for my planner. I keep this little book with me at all times, writing deadlines on the calendar (with reminders a week or two before the deadline), to-do lists in the back, and random thoughts with ideas for future projects. My planner keeps me organized and focused. Plus there's something extremely satisfying about checking off completed tasks with a perfect 0.7 lead mechanical pencil.
  
• My mentor: I have recently fallen into a relationship with a business mentor and I must say it is fabulous. She is helping me focus and provides accountability. She asks great questions and is a wonderful listener. Find someone to play this role in your life. It could be a fellow writer, or a task-oriented friend. Perhaps you could barter one of your services for theirs.
  
• My software: I recently purchased a great little piece of software called On the Job. It's for Macs, but surely there's something comparable for PC's. I love it because it enables me to keep accurate time-records for my freelance clients (so that I can bill properly). It's also handy for keeping me focused when I'm working on book projects--something about being on the clock keeps me from drifting into the laundry room.
  
• My schedule: I've mentioned I resist structure. But my mentor taught me that it's important to make some kind of weekly schedule. It can be as structured or unstructured as you wish, but a schedule provides a framework for getting your work done. Be sure to include business development time each week--time to network, write queries, read up on the craft--the nuts and bolts that will help expand your business.
  

I'd love to hear about the things you do to run your writing business.