Right... when?: Finding time to write when you have a million other things to do

Face it, anyone who has to write, has tried to write, and has written knows what this post is about.  Life in it's many forms has an interesting way of disrupting writing endeavors.  The past two weeks have been particularly brutal with work demands (both expected and unexpected), family responsibilities (both expected and unexpected), and everything in between (home, car, physical) making writing virtually impossible.  I wrote OTHER things (emails, texts, notes, announcements, power point presentations) but not what I tasked myself to write.  I tell myself that if I can figure out how to do all of these OTHER things, I can also write.  My writing group has discussed several activities that have worked for them and I try to implement them in my world as well.  Unfortunately, my world just doesn't always seem to want to comply.  What has worked for others?  1) Carving out time that is dedicated only to writing.  I have a lofty goal of 30 minutes daily, however, I find that 3 times per week is a bit more realistic. The challenge is when and where this takes place (In the morning before work begins? During lunch? In the evening after life quiets down?).  Frankly, the opportunity varies and external realities DO exist.  That said, having a structured plan does help.  This includes putting that designated time allotment along with location, into your calendar and commit to sticking to it for at least 2 weeks.  By taking a scientific approach: commit, track, and assess, you may be able to overcome LIFE. 2) Accountability partnering to track writing goals.  This has definitely worked for me.  I can truly say that NONE of my writing would have taken place had it not been for my Writing group and accountability partner. 3) Take time to analyze what is getting in the way of writing.  Is it something practical?  Technology does hinder progress at times.  If you know you don't have access to reliable internet, computer/laptop, and etc. in certain locations, consider waiting until you are able to get to a place where you are able fully focus on writing.  I say this because sometimes I consider writing while I am waiting for the kid at dance, swimming, and other lessons.  Wi-fi is not always available and I don't relish the thought of using my cellphone's personal hotspot capability.   Is it something personal? Are you your own worst critic?  Do you have Imposter syndrome?  Are you a perfectionist? This is where the accountability partnering and support comes into play.  You are not the only one who has these experiences.  After my ONLY first authored publication, I admittedly worry about being a one hit wonder.  Having my partner and group ensures that I keep it moving! Lastly, are there external realities outside of your control?  Understanding and keeping in mind that if you are doing the best you can, attending to those external realities without getting derailed is OK.  Taking the time you need to manage LIFE and approach writing mindfully will guarantee progress.