Distractions are a Writing Hazard! Here’s how to Get Rid of them!

When you are writing a book one of the most prevalent problems is the distractions that keep popping up everywhere. These distractions could be practically anything. They could be external distractions such as car noises or an uncomfortable workplace. They could also be internal distractions such as personal problems or writer’s block. One thing they have in common though is their effects on writers and their work. Don’t worry though, distractions are easy to deal with once you know how. Here are some great book writing tips on how to get rid of writing distractions.

• Unclutter your life

One of the worst writing distractions is having a cluttered life. A cluttered life is the lack of order in a person’s life. The lack of a regimen or schedule to follow. This leads to a lack of discipline and self-control that would ultimately distract the writer to no end. Thus in order to write as effectively as possible you should unclutter your life. But how exactly can you do that?  One way is to be proactive in how you handle your day to day duties. Never leave anything to the last minute. If you have a chore or errand that needs to be done, finish it as soon as possible. Uncluttering your life will leave you more time to write your book and give you a more relaxed outlook on life.

• Take up meditation

Writing distractions do not necessarily need to come from external sources. Sometimes distractions can also come from internal sources. They could range from psychological challenges or writer’s block. In truth internal distractions are more difficult to deal with, because it takes longer to deal with them. But one way to deal with internal distractions is using meditation to calm your mind. Meditation is a mental practice using mindfulness and breathing exercise. It was taken from Buddhist and Zen practices and have been used by a multitude of people to calm their fears and anxieties.
In truth mediation is a multifaceted concept that encompasses a myriad of teachings. But it can also be used in a more practical sense. Try this exercise if you feel overwhelmed or anxious. You go somewhere quiet. A library or your room. Sit down, cross legged or any other sitting position is good, just as long as you are comfortable. After you sit down take a deep breath.  Focus on your breathing and close your eyes. Continue to focus on your breathing and think of nothing else. Just continue to focus on your breathing for about twenty minutes, although this depends on how long you can maintain it. After meditating you will notice that your breathing is easier and your mind calm and free of anxiety. This practice is a great way to clear your mind of all distractions and make the writing process easier.

• Go on mindful walks and hikes

Life is naturally complicated and rife with distractions. But you should always remember that it can only affect you if you let it. Learn to take things slowly. Tell yourself that there really is no hurry. Anxiety and uncertainty is one of the most prevalent distractions a writer could face. So if you are faced with these challenges try to relax. Go out and take a walk or climb a mountain. Going out and embracing nature in all its beauty will free you of unnecessary anxiety and help make your writing skills sharper.

• Travel

One common reason for writing distraction is boredom. Although it is good that you are comfortable, being cooped up in a room all day long could get boring very fast. So what you should do is travel. Go out into the world. It does not really matter where you go. It could be a world tour or just a trip to the next town. Your main goal is a change of scenery while writing a novel, you will be surprised at how it affects you as a writer.
As a writer you should understand that distractions are a constant. You should also remember though that it is ultimately up to you whether you let these distractions affect you. Ultimately it is a test of your conviction as a writer.