Establishing a consistent writing routine is essential for writers seeking to maintain productivity, overcome creative blocks, and make progress on their writing projects. The reason why every writer should have a writing routine is because it provides structure, eliminates decision fatigue, and cultivates a writing habit – which can lead to improved focus and creativity. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of creating a writing routine and provide insights on how to establish habits for consistent productivity.
Set Realistic Writing Goals
Start by setting realistic writing goals that align with your overall writing objectives. Whether it’s a specific word count, a set number of pages, or dedicated time slots, clear goals help you stay focused and motivated during your writing routine. Break larger goals into smaller, achievable milestones to track your progress effectively. I usually think about how long I think my book should be and break that down into how much I should write every day. If I’m writing a 75 000 word chick-lit story and write 1000 words per day, I will have a first draft finished in less then three months.
Find Your Ideal Writing Environment
Create a conducive writing environment that suits your preferences and needs. Whether it’s a quiet corner in your home, a cozy coffee shop, or a serene outdoor space, find a location that helps you get into the writing mindset. Eliminate distractions and surround yourself with inspirational objects or prompts that spark creativity.
Schedule Dedicated Writing Time
This is one of my favorite productivity hacks: Allocating time slots for writing in my daily or weekly schedule. I usually plan the week ahead on Sundays and actually block time in my calendar for writing. I learned the technique from Ali Abdaal. (Video below.) Treat these writing sessions as non-negotiable appointments with yourself. Consistency is key, so aim to write at the same time each day or during specific days of the week. Even short, focused writing sessions can yield significant progress over time.
Track Your Progress
Maintain a writing log or use writing apps to track your progress. Record the number of words written, the duration of each writing session, or the milestones achieved. Tracking your progress provides a sense of accomplishment and motivates you to continue with your writing routine. This has really helped me to become a faster and better writer. It also motivates me because I can see the progress I’m making. In my free e-book 4 Steps to Writing Faster I have link to the sheet I use to track my progress.
Be Flexible and Adapt
Life happens, and there may be times when it’s challenging to stick to your writing routine. Be flexible and adapt when necessary. If you miss a scheduled writing session, don’t dwell on it. Instead, find alternative times or adjust your routine as needed. The key is to maintain consistency over the long term.
