Embrace the Odd: Finding Writing Time in Unexpected Places

Confession time: I've written more than a few paragraphs with a dental bib tucked into my patient's shirt and the faint smell of antiseptic in the air. Hey, when inspiration strikes, you gotta grab it! (Don't worry, I always make sure their teeth are sparkling clean first.)

But seriously, finding time to write can feel like searching for a mythical creature in a crowded city. We're all so busy these days, juggling work, family, social commitments... and let's be honest, sometimes just trying to keep up with the endless scroll of social media.

But what if I told you that some of your best writing could happen in the most unexpected places?

The Social Media Vortex

Let's face it, we've all fallen victim to the social media vortex. One minute you're checking a notification, and the next thing you know, an hour has vanished into the abyss of cute animal videos and heated debates about pineapple on pizza. (For the record, I'm pro-pineapple. Fight me.)

But seriously, think about all that time spent scrolling. What if you could reclaim even a fraction of it for your writing? Imagine how many words you could write, how many plot twists you could brainstorm, how many fantastical worlds you could build! Instead of watching that cat play the piano for the hundredth time (adorable, but I think we get the point), you could be crafting the next bestseller.

Odd Times, Hidden Gems

I've learned to embrace the odd, those little pockets of time that often slip through our fingers. Waiting for a patient? Perfect time to jot down some dialogue. Lunch break? Multitasking at its finest – sandwich in one hand, pen in the other. Can't sleep at 3 a.m.? Don't count sheep, build a world!

Here are a few of my favorite "odd time" writing hacks:

• The trusty notebook:  Always have a notebook (or your phone) handy to capture those fleeting ideas. You never know when inspiration will strike.

• Mini-writing sprints:  Challenge yourself to write 100 words or brainstorm one scene during those short breaks.

• Lunchtime literature:  Combine your need to eat with your desire to write. Just try not to get crumbs on your manuscript.

• The waiting game:  Doctor's appointments, school pickups, those endless lines at the DMV – they're all opportunities to sneak in some writing time.

• Late-night brainstorming:  If sleep eludes you, put those restless hours to good use. World-build, develop characters, or outline your next chapter.

What About You?

I'm curious, fellow writers (and aspiring writers!), what are your thoughts on this? Do you find yourselves writing in odd places? Have you discovered any unique strategies for squeezing in writing time? Share your tips and experiences in the comments – let's inspire each other!

Odd Times!!!!!!