During these times, we see more and more individuals working from home. For me, it’s something I truly enjoy. No more worrying about getting up early to leave the house on time to make sure I make it to work on time. No more trying to figure out what to wear. No more dealing with traffic. No more…

But that does not mean I do not have other things to worry about. Our home is our safe haven, our office, possibly our gym, our entertainment area, our kitchen, and the list goes on.

So, in order to keep our sanity, one of the most important things to consider is How to Get Better Organized.

In this episode, I’m going to discuss how I keep organized specifically in my writing. I have found that for me, what works is using several software and tools.

Plottr for my outlines and my book bibles has been invaluable. Plottr is an outlining software that is compatible with both Windows and Mac. It’s really very easy software to use and it even comes with pre-loaded templates. You can add and rearrange your plot points easily and even organize stories into a series. In addition, it allows you the ability to build your characters and develop your setting. For me, the best part is that it exports to Scrivener.

Scrivener is where I write and organize everything that comes with writing a novel. I can use it to store research, images, thoughts, potential book titles, etc., all in one place. This software is also compatible with Mac and Windows. Think of having a binder with different tabs where you include everything you need to write your novel. You can break down the chapters, have a corkboard which gives you a visual overview of your project, and when you are done you can compile your novel into different files such as Mobi, epub, pdf, etc.

I use The Happy Planner for my calendar and notes. I find this old school way of keeping track of things works for me. One of the great benefits is that the book comes with disc binding that holds your pages together but still allows you to remove and replace them easily. It includes the option to have your calendar at your fingertips, but also accessories like dotted style paper packs and stickers. Trust me, once you start using a Happy Planner you will be hooked. Besides the classic extension pack, there are extension packs for budget, home, Christmas, wellness, wedding, and even fitness. It’s a great tool, especially with the three different size options.

The Happy Planner comes in three sizes:

• The Big Happy Planner – The pages of the Big Happy Planner are the standard 8.5″ x 11″, and the cover size is 9″ x 11.25″. The nice thing about the Big Happy Planner is that you can easily add your own printables without having to go through the hassle of resizing them.

• The Classic Happy Planner – The pages of the Classic Happy Planner are size 7″ x 9.25″ and the cover measures 7.75″ x 9.75″. It seems to me that there are WAY more accessories available for the Classic size.

• The Mini Happy Planner – If you want a purse-sized planner that’s still cute, then this one is for you! The Mini Happy Planner pages are size 4.5″ x 7″, and the cover measures 5.125″ x 7.5″.

One thing to consider is organizing and protecting your computer files. Whether you use an actual computer or iPad having an iCloud service to keep your files backed up is critical. You can use Google, OneDrive or even DropBox to store your files, sync between your computer and the cloud. Remember that backing up your files, photos, etc., is important. You do not want to be in the middle of writing and poof your computer dies and then you have lost everything.

Finally, I have created a Pinterest account where I will be putting my inspirations, images of my characters, my books and eventually videos. Pinterest is good for creating an internet bookmarked, as I mentioned a source of inspiration, and to promote and connect with others who have similar interests.

So organizing yourself whether you are actually working from home or outside your home will make your life much easier, and make those around you much happier.

Until next time, happy reading.