When I think about consistency in writing, I’m not talking about grammar or tone, though those matter too. I’m talking about showing up: sitting down regularly to write, sticking with your creative process, and making writing part of your everyday life.
Whether you're aiming to publish a novel or just get your thoughts down in a journal, consistent writing habits are essential if you want to grow as a writer and build a body of work you’re proud of.
What Does Writing Consistently Look Like?
Consistency doesn’t mean writing thousands of words a day or publishing daily. It’s about creating a rhythm that works for your life and goals. Here are a few habits that have helped me stay consistent:
1. Create a Writing Schedule
Set aside regular time for writing—even if it’s just 20 minutes. Treat it like a meeting you can’t cancel. This helps train your brain to expect creative time and makes writing a normal part of your routine.
2. Prioritize Your Projects
Not every idea needs your energy right now. Focus on your most important pieces first—especially ones with deadlines or high potential- then work on passion projects to keep things fun and fresh. One reader put it best: track your top-performing content and let that guide your focus.
3. Plan for Writer’s Block
Writer’s block happens—even if it’s more about perfectionism than lack of ideas. When I feel stuck, I go to the park by the river. Something about water and people-watching fills my notebook with new ideas. Find what works for you: take a break, change your scenery, or brainstorm without judgment.
4. Set Word Count Goals
A daily word goal gives you something to aim for. I shoot for 1,000–2,000 words a day, sometimes on one project, sometimes split across several. The key isn’t the number—it’s about building momentum and showing up.
5. Stay Organized
Keep your projects and ideas in order. I create folders and label documents by idea or title so I can return to them later. That way, when inspiration strikes mid-project, I don’t lose the new idea—I just store it for later.
What My Daily Writing Looks Like
There was a time I published an article every day for a month. It was exciting, but let’s be honest—it wasn’t sustainable. These days, I write every day but only publish 1–3 times per week. That’s the rhythm that works for me.
I usually write in the mornings before my husband wakes up. Later in the day, I may brainstorm, format articles, or revise drafts while he’s watching TV or playing a game on his phone.
I don’t wait for perfect conditions—I write around my life.
The Real Challenge: Too Many Ideas
Writer’s block isn’t my biggest issue. If anything, I have the opposite problem—I get too many ideas when I’m trying to focus. My solution? I start a document, name it, and move on. That way, I can return to it when I’m ready, without derailing my current project.
I’ve even started writing down thoughts as soon as I wake up. I joke that I think more before 4 a.m. than most people do all day—but honestly, that early morning clarity has sparked some of my best work.
Learn from the Pros—but Make It Your Own
I love reading about the routines of big-name writers. While I can’t always keep up with their output, I try their methods and see what sticks. In some seasons, I write 2,000 words a day for a whole month. Other times, I write less. What matters is that I keep going—and so can you.
Final Thoughts: Writing Is a Business
If you want to grow as a writer, whether as a hobbyist or a professional, you need to write consistently. That means building routines, setting goals, and adjusting your plan as needed. The more seriously you take your writing, the more your work will grow.
So tell me—
💬 What part of this resonated with you?
💬 Do you struggle with writing daily or staying focused?
💬 Or maybe you’ve found a system that works—share it below!
Let’s talk about it. Writing can feel like a solo sport, but it doesn’t have to be.
If this helped you, leave a comment or hit that heart. If you disagree, tell me why. I love a good writerly debate.
Resources
I discovered Kristina God (Online Writing School) when I was on Medium, and I still enjoy her content here on Substack.
Recently, I watched a live stream on her profile about creating a Medium-Substack flywheel. I’m happy to say that I’ve already been repurposing my Medium content on Substack. That makes me realize that I am definitely thinking like a real business owner and I love it.
Until Next Time
Have a good day, good person. And happy writing!
Notes You May Have Missed
My Books
Susie Winfield’s Mysteries
Wrongful Accusations - All Chapters
Behind the Scenes - All Chapters
Write on the Scene
I Have Kids and I Can’t Find Time to Write
Excellent article and timely advice. it was also a great reminder for me. I used to have a regimented writing routine, but now that my husband and I live with our son and his family now, finding those precious moments to write are becoming harder. I'm learning how to write again with children squabbling over a toy in the background :D
All of this resonates with me! One simple way I stay organized is just having a notebook next to me during my writing sessions where I can jot down ideas that come to me, so I don't have to interrupt my flow. Then after my session, I organize those ideas in files and folders. And yes, I too think more before 4am than most do all day!