How to Juggle Multiple Writing Projects...Or Not?
In this listener Q&A episode of Writers with Wrinkles, co-hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid answer a question about juggling multiple writing projects and staying focused. They share personal approaches to managing ideas and offer advice on how to prioritize projects for aspiring authors.
Key Discussion Points
- Handling Multiple Writing Projects: Beth and Lisa tackle a listener's question about managing various writing ideas, from picture books to novels and screenplays.
- Beth's Approach: Beth often starts several projects and lets the most compelling one "choose her" over time. She encourages finishing at least one project to have something ready for submission.
- Lisa's Approach: Lisa prefers to focus on a single project until it’s completed, emphasizing the importance of staying on task and submitting work consistently.
- Managing Genre Switching: They discuss the challenges of working across different genres (e.g., picture books, novels, screenplays) and the importance of mastering the specific skills required for each.
- Building Community: Beth and Lisa highlight the importance of not “pulling up the ladder” once you’ve achieved success, encouraging writers to lift others up as they advance in their careers.
This episode dives into the challenges of managing multiple writing ideas and staying focused. Whether you’re a multitasker like Beth or laser-focused like Lisa, the key takeaway is the importance of finishing projects and supporting fellow writers.
To Send Us A Question
Mentioned Links
- Beth McMullen's Substack for her Accountability Group
- Lisa Schmid’s book Hart & Souls available at bookstores and libraries.
Beth McMullen
Author
Beth McMullen is the author of the Mrs. Smith’s Spy School for Girls series , the Lola Benko, Treasure Hunter series, and The Secret of the Storm series (Aladdin/S&S).
She is also the author of the Spy Mom series (Hyperion).
Beth lives in Northern California with her husband, kids, and very grumpy cats. She's obsessed with podcasts and might give up writing in order to have more time to listen. Could happen.
