How to Build a Killer Writing Routine
How to Build a Killer Writing Routine
As an author, I know firsthand how challenging it can be to find the time and motivation to write consistently. When I first started writing, I worked full-time as a teacher, and I had five kids at home. To say I was busy is an understatement! Whether you’re juggling a full-time job, family responsibilities, or other life commitments, creating a killer writing routine can help you make progress with your writing project. In fact, it can make all the difference. In this article, I’ll share some tips and strategies to help you build a writing routine that promotes consistency and productivity. If you like podcasts, listen to The WriterSpark Podcast on this subject.
Importance of a Writing Routine
First things first, why is having a writing routine so important? Think of a writing routine as a roadmap for your writing journey. A routine helps you stay focused, reduces procrastination, and helps you make consistent progress. When you treat writing like any other important task in your life, you’re more likely to prioritize it, right?
Right.
It’s all about creating a habit. Atomic Habits, anyone? Stack those habits until they become part of your life. Once writing becomes a part of your daily routine, it feels more natural and less like a chore. If writing feels like a chore, that’s something to really think about. Why is it a chore and not a joy?
Time Management Strategies
One common challenge writers face is finding time to write given their busy schedules. Here are a few of my time management strategies:
1. The Pomodoro Technique: One of my favorite strategies is the Pomodoro Technique, which breaks writing time into focused bursts of 25 minutes, followed by a 5-minute break. After four cycles, you take a longer break. It’s great for maintaining focus and preventing burnout. You can do 15 minutes, or 20, or whatever works for you. People also call these writing sprints. Turn off your social media, silence your notifications, and set a time. During those sprints, focus. You’ll be amazed at how much you can accomplish like this! Use this online timer to help you!
2. Time Blocking: Another great strategy that can have a positive impact on your progress and
productivity is time blocking. This is where you set aside specific blocks of time in your daily or weekly calendar dedicated solely to writing. Time blocking ensures that writing time is non-negotiable. Also, consider tracking your time to see where it’s going. This can help you identify and eliminate time-wasting activities.
3. Communicate Your Schedule: When you communicate your schedule with the people in your life, you’re letting them know how important this is. Let them know when you’re unavailable to minimize interruptions. Creating a supportive environment with supportive folks is key.
Tools and Apps to Support Writing Habits
Now, let’s move on to some tools and apps that can help you build killer writing routines and habits:
1. Scrivener: For distraction-free writing, I highly recommend Scrivener. It’s a powerful tool that helps you organize your manuscript, research, and notes all in one place. There are so many reasons to love Scrivener. Listen to the podcast episode on this topic to hear a bit more about this writing tool.
2. Evernote: I often use Evernote for jotting down ideas and organizing my research. I use it to keep track of hashtags, SEO keywords, and so much more. It’s a great notetaking tool that is super efficient. It syncs across all your devices (depending on your plan), so you always have access to your notes.
3. Trello and Notion: For goal setting and tracking progress, try using an app like Trello or Notion. These allow you to create boards and lists to keep track of your writing projects and deadlines. I love my physical planner, but if your brain works well with an online productivity platform, these are definitely for you.
4. Focus@Will and Brain FM: Two other apps I like are Focus@Will and Brain FM, both of which provide background music…but not just any music. It’s music that’s scientifically designed to improve concentration. I’m here to tell you that they really work! They help you focus. All the better if you combine one of these tools with your writing sprints!
Real-Life Examples and Tips
Before we wrap up, I have some real-life examples and tips for you. Here’s how I’ve personally built a successful writing routine:
1. Set Small, Achievable Goals: When I first began writing, I had kids at home and a job. I started by setting small, achievable goals for myself. I started small, aiming for 250 words a day. The small wins helped me make progress and up my goals.
2. Write at the Same Time Every Day: Writing at the same time every day helps reinforce the habit. It becomes a part of your daily schedule. I’m not the type of person who can get up at 5 AM (no 5 AM club for me!) and write for an hour. Instead of fighting against my natural inclinations, I didn’t force them. Instead, I wrote after my kids were in bed. It just comes down to creating a routine that works for you.
3. Create a Dedicated Writing Space: I’ve found that having a dedicated writing space, free from distractions, really helps me stay focused. I work best when I’m in my little office. If you don’t have a separate office space, find a space in your home that you can claim as yours…just for your writing.
4. Be Flexible and Give Yourself Grace: Don’t be too hard on yourself if you miss a day or if your routine goes off the rails once in a while. Life happens, and it’s important to be flexible and forgiving. Consistency is key, but it’s also important to enjoy the process. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small. Writing should be a joy, not a burden.
The Takeaway
Building a killer writing routine is all about:
- Finding what works best for you
- Sticking with it
I hope you found these tips and strategies helpful in creating your own routine. Remember, it’s a journey, and every step you take brings you closer to your writing goals. Happy writing!
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Recommended Books:
- Scrivener for Dummies by Gwen Hernandez
- Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity by David Allen
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