Creating a Writing Routine That Works for You

Don't waste time waiting for inspiration

created in canva

If you want to write seriously, having a routine is crucial for your success. A routine is important for productivity and creativity. I have a schedule to write every morning from 8 to noon. Sometimes I write longer when I have a project I really want to get done. Occasionally I work a little less when family matters come up. 

Yes, life may get in the way but you have to learn to adapt and get right back on track.

Understanding Your Writing Style

I learned about plotting and pantsing when I did NaNoWriMo. At first I wrote by the seat of my pants but my stories never seemed to go anywhere, at least not where I wanted them to go. Then I learned how to plot and outline my stories and actually completed a handful of books. Of course most of them are still living in my Google Drive waiting to be edited. But hey, at least I tried. 

This past year of writing on the internet, I've gotten better and better at having a skeleton (outline) to beef up (add content).

I know outlines make you feel like you're back in school, but I promise you that staring at a blank page for 4 hours is worse. I write better when my content is broken down in manageable pieces.

Setting Clear Goals

If you don't set goals and deadlines for yourself, you'll never get anything done. Set short-term and long-term goals for your writing. I talk about SMART goals all the time because it's important. 

This makes sure that the goals you set are in alignment with your overall business model. It helps you to make sure that you are aiming for things that are achievable for your knowledge and experience level. 

Creating a Schedule

Whether you have a 9 to 5 that you have to work around or you are retired and have all the time in the world, make a schedule. You can set goals based on your lifestyle. Mornings, evenings or lunchtime, Whatever time is available for you to work on your writing. 

When I was working, I wrote in the morning when I worked nights. I wrote at night when I worked in the daytime. Even though I tried to make sure that weekends were family time, I still snuck in an hour or two when my son or husband were sleeping or otherwise occupied. 

Finding Your Writing Space

If you have a dedicated space in your home to write, great. At times I was posted up at a desk in the dining room, my bedroom, the kitchen table, and a corner of the living room. There was a short period of time where I turned a spare bedroom into my office. It was cool. Whatever space you have, make sure you have good lighting and hopefully a door you can close and preferably lock when you're in the middle of something great. 

If you find it hard to concentrate at home, go to the library or park. Sometimes I got a lot done sitting in my truck, parked facing the Mississippi River. I don't know if it was the people watching or the river flowing that was the most appealing. 

Developing Rituals and Habits

Sometimes you have to mentally prepare to write. Let your brain know that it's writing time and not gaming time. That comes later… Some writers wait for inspiration but I think that if you just make a habit of writing everyday at the same time, inspiration will come automatically. You just have to get in that zone. 

I once bought into the muse mindset but soon realized that wasn't a reliable tactic. I could waste days or weeks waiting for an idea instead of actively looking for one. 

Incorporating Feedback and Reflection

Once you get in the habit of writing, you will notice what works and what doesn't. Whenever I go on Substack or Medium I see post after post from my favorite writers and it makes me wonder what the heck am i doing with my life? Yes everyone's journey is different but if you feel you need to make improvements, ask your peers how they manage their writing with work and other priorities. 

You may have to try a few things before you find what works for you. 

Staying Flexible and Adaptable

Keep in mind that things change. The routine that you start with may not continue to work for you. Be open to trying new things. 

Now that I don't get around quite like I used to, I write in bed most of the time. I have a window that I can look out of but I hardly ever do it, but I like having the option. It's better than sitting in a cubicle box all day.

Resources

Kristina God. I love her name and her Youtube channel. I love how she interviews writers from different levels and highlights what they've done right on their writing journey.

I also follow Kristina on Medium, Twitter/X and Substack. 

I admire the fact that she manages to consistently put out great content on various platforms along with working a full-time job and taking care of her family. 

Conclusion

Creating a writing routine that works for you is important for your writing journey. Here are key points to remember for crafting a successful writing routine:

• Adaptability: Life can disrupt routines. Learn to adapt and return to your writing schedule.

• Understanding Your Style: Experiment with being a plotter and pantser. Find what suits your storytelling.

• Setting Clear Goals: Use SMART goals to achieve your writing objectives.

• Creating a Schedule: Tailor your writing time to fit your lifestyle. Whether it's mornings, evenings, or lunch breaks.

• Finding Your Writing Space: Create a dedicated, well-lit space at home. Explore inspiring locations like libraries or parks.

• Developing Rituals: Train your mind to focus on writing at designated times. This will cultivate a productive habit.

• Incorporating Feedback: Learn from peers and favorite writers to refine your approach.

• Staying Flexible: Be open to changes in routines and environments. 

Until Next Time

Have a good day, good person and keep writing. 

If you would like to see what I'm doing when I'm not here, you can always check me out on LinkedIn, X(Twitter), or my blog. I also post occasionally on Medium.