By David Simpson

January is when we resolve to commit ourselves to things that matter. It's a good time to focus anew on writing your scholarly paper, article, chapter, or book.

Help is available at the National Center for Faculty Development & Diversity , where archived webinars include "Moving From Resistance to Writing" and "How to Develop a Daily Writing Practice." To subscribe at no cost, select "Join NCFDD" and follow the prompts.

In the meantime, here are a few suggestions for tackling your project in the midst of competing professional and personal demands:

  • Schedule time to write every day — preferably two hours but at least 30 minutes.
  • Beyond that, steal 15 minutes here, 15 minutes there — every bit keeps you moving forward.
  • For support, find a writing partner or group.
  • Rely on a research assistant, if you have one, to ease your workload.
  • Set deadlines and stick to them.
  • Say no to other commitments when you can.
  • Be honest with yourself: You have only 24 hours in a day, so try to maximize time spent on writing.