How the Batching Method Inspires Writing Creativity

by Cathy Baker @CathySBaker

Batching is simply a form of time management that allows a person to maximize concentration and decrease distraction. As a result, it increases your productivity, creativity, and mental sharpness, while decreasing fatigue, procrastination, and stress. Batch processing is the grouping of similar tasks that require similar resources in order to streamline their completion. � Michael Hyatt

The method of batching is relatively new to me so perhaps together we can learn a few ways to give it a try.

Tips for Batching

Schedule: Those who convinced us that multi-tasking is the answer to productivity were ill informed. Studies now show that trying to accomplish multiple things at one time wreaks havoc on productivity. In comparison, setting aside blocks of time to do similar tasks can decrease distractions and increase productivity two-fold. 

So what does using the batching method to schedule have to do with creativity? Robert Dickey III puts it best, �Real creativity, the kind that leads to breakthroughs in thinking and design, require long stretches of deep, uninterrupted concentrations. Multitasking is the biggest threat to real creativity. It makes us less productive, and requires a lot of energy.� 

Batching also gives us freedom to work in accordance with our natural rhythms. If clarity and creativity punch their time clock in the mornings, consider batching your writing time during those hours and save the afternoon for those things that don�t require the same intensity. 

I began the batching process by first defining what success meant to me. Was success hitting my word count for the day, but asking my husband to settle for a sandwich instead of a hot meal? The answer lies in the form of another question: Would he prefer grape or strawberry jelly with that peanut butter? Thankfully, this is rarely my response but bundling frees time to get the work tasks done so I can fully enjoy my family�and a good meal. 

Creative Space:Using the batch method helps to create space in both our mind and schedule. Now let�s take a step back and look at our workspace with fresh eyes because it all works together to inspire creativity. 

Is there at least one thing in your creative space that speaks to your soul, causes you to pause for a few moments, or whispers a word of gratitude? Maybe it�s a picture of your family, a quote or scripture verse, or an encouraging note from a reader that brings a quick smile to your face. 

Consider creating an inspiration board. It will give you a defined space�a place to pause, ponder and appreciate what you see, even if only for a few moments. 

Clear the Mind:In the same way debris fills a wastebasket, clutter can fill our mind. It can come in the form of confusion, internal chatter, competitiveness, and an underlying sense of chaos. While we�re quick to keep our physical areas clear of clutter, we often neglect the damaging thoughts and lies we sometimes allow to occupy our mind. It�s time to kick them to the curb!

Proverbs 4:23 says, Be careful how you think; your life is shaped by your thoughts.For instance, when we choose to believe the lie that everyone else is more talented than we are, we not only second-guess God�s choices for our lives, but we also give self-pity a seated place in our mind. Imagine what we could create if we used the time spent comparing ourselves to others to instead hone our skills. 

So how do we kick the clutter to the curb? Begin with prayer. Psalm 139:23 says, Search me, God, and know my heart.The heart and mind are interchangeable in the Bible. 

Batch an hour for spending time writing down truth to refute the lies threatening to clutter our mind. If confusion is the struggle, write down 1 Corinthians 14:33: For God is not a God of confusion but of peace.Embrace the reality that God never plays hide-and-seek with us. 

When we allow God to access and reveal the crumpled up clutter in the corners of our mind, we make way to be the creative artist He gifted us to be. 

What one tip for organizing our writing time can you share? 

Favorite links to learning more about the batching method: 

• The Definitive Guide to �Batching� Your Work(link: http://www.asianefficiency.com/productivity/definitive-guide-batching-work/)
• Productivity Hack: Work More Efficiently By Batching Your Work(link: https://www.brazen.com/blog/archive/career-growth/productivity-hack-work-more-efficiently-by-batching-your-time/) 
• Batching Tasks: Save Time and Produce High Quality Work (includes a download)https://ppx.inkwellpress.com/blog/batching-tasks-save-time-effective-work/
• Can�t Focus At Work? Use Task Batching To Organize Your Brain
• https://www.crown.org/blog/cant-focus-at-work-use-task-batching-to-organize-your-brain/

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Cathy Baker is an award-winning writer and author of Pauses for the Vacationing Soul: A Sensory-Based Devotional Guide for the Beach as well as Pauses for the Vacationing Soul: A Sensory-Based Devotional Guide for the Mountains. As a twenty-five year veteran Bible instructor, she's led hundreds of studies and workshops. She's also contributed to numerous anthologies and publications, including Chicken Soup for the Soul, The Upper Room, and Focus on the Family�s Thriving Family. In addition, her poetry can be found in several popular anthologies.

She and her husband, Brian, live in the foothills of the Carolinas. Subscribe to Cathy�s blog at http://www.cathybaker.org and receive a free e-book, �Praying In Every Room of Your Home.�