In How to Write a Lot, psychologist Paul Silvia (2007) suggests that writers use a variety of “specious” barriers to writing. These include:
- I can’t find time to write.
- Binge writing
- I need to read more/analyze data more to write.
- I need a new chair/computer/desk/better space to write.
- I am waiting till I feel inspired to write.
We will now tackle some of these barriers and put you on the path to publication success!
Solutions to Barriers
Schedule Regular Time to Write
Barrier One: “I can’t find time to write.” or “I would write more if I could find big blocks of time.” (Silvia, p. 11).
”Finding time” is the problem. That big block of time will never arrive—you must make it.
- Expert writers who are successful in publication have regularly scheduled writing time and build in clear accountability for themselves as writers.
- For smaller projects, chunks of time between meetings, etc., when deep engagement (like checking references) isn’t necessary (Driscoll, forthcoming; Tardy, 2019).
Set goals for your regularly scheduled writing time.
Barrier Two: I can only write when under extreme pressure.
Binge writing is when you procrastinate until something is due, then write for hours (often losing sleep) or even several days straight before submitting it.
- Binge writing strategies form negative associations and relationships with writing and do not allow for lasting writing habits.
- Binge writing also does not allow the time for you to effectively cultivate and work on ideas, which is critical for writing for publication.
Binge writing is often cultivated in graduate school, but does not serve the kinds of long-term projects and thinking necessary to produce peer-reviewed scholarship.
Write each time you read or engage with your data.
Barrier 3: I need to read more, analyze more, or think more first.
This is most often a way of allowing yourself to procrastinate on your writing.
- Recognize that “writing time” can be used broadly, but use it to make regular progress (see goal setting, next).
- Regularly scheduled writing time is used for anything related to writing: reading and note taking, gathering and crunching data, etc.
- Write as you read; that way, you don’t forget what you’ve read.
Schedule it, sit down, and write.
Barrier 4: I am waiting until I feel like it/am inspired.
If you wait till you feel like writing, you may never write.
- Schedule your writing time, and write. Habituated practice = productivity.
- Scheduled writing enhances your creative ideas.
- Scheduled writing enhances your productivity.
Find ways of building your confidence and motivation.
Barrier 5: I can’t do this.
When writers believe that they can’t complete the task, they make no progress on their writing.
- Seek support networks who can help you build your confidence and worth (counseling, family, friends)
- Recognize and fight “imposter syndrome,” which is the belief that you are an “imposter” and “not supposed to be here.” Many graduate students and faculty face imposter syndrome. Recognize it for what it is—a lie (Driscoll et al., 2020).
- Practice self-care. Mindfulness, yoga, nature walks, etc., allow you to reconnect with yourself, the reasons you are doing this work, and give you the time for reflection (Driscoll et al., 2020).
- Remind yourself that you can do this.
- Join writing groups and seek support.
- Use the material in this resource to help you set a plan and write.