EVERYDAY WRITING HABITS

Read Time: 3 minutes

Writing is a habit much like learning to play a new instrument. Do it every day, and you’ll see steady improvement in your work.

I write every day, and sometimes on weekends, but if you can’t, choose the days you can realistically commit to. I know writers who only write on weekends and others who write every other day. It doesn’t matter when you write; what matters is that you show up and do it.

These strategies have helped me:

• Block writing time in your calendar. Treat it like an appointment you can’t miss.

• Find a writing partner. You don’t have to be working on the same project but having an accountability partner keeps you motivated.

• Engage with your work, even when you’re not writing. Reread what you’ve written, or read material similar to yours such as a novel, a screenplay, or a book of poetry.

Never underestimate the power of showing up for yourself. The more you do, the more motivated you’ll feel to keep going.

Finally, a note about negative self-talk. Those judgments will creep in.

When they do, gently push them aside and remind yourself that a rough draft is supposed to be, well, rough.

Writing isn’t easy. But then again, very little that’s worthwhile ever is.

Key points:

• Set up writing times you can stick to.

• Think of finding an accountability writing partner.

• A rough draft is supposed to be rough!

You worked hard on your book so let's get it out there!

Keep writing and keep creating.

Sam