How to Develop a Writing Habit: A Guide for Aspiring Authors
For aspiring authors, the dream of writing a book can feel both exciting and overwhelming. However, developing a consistent writing habit is the key to turning this dream into a reality. By committing to a regular writing routine, aspiring authors can overcome procrastination, unleash their creativity, and make significant progress towards completing their book. In this blog post, we will explore effective strategies to help aspiring authors like you establish a productive writing habit.
1. Set Achievable Goals
One of the first steps in developing a writing habit is to set achievable goals. Start by determining how much time you can dedicate to writing each day or week. It's essential to be realistic and consistent. Set specific word count targets or time goals, such as writing for 30 minutes every morning or writing 2000 words in the week at times that suit you. By breaking your writing process into manageable chunks, you can eliminate the overwhelming feeling of tackling an entire book at once. As Will Smith discusses in his book, Will, when his dad had him building a wall. Don’t look at the whole wall, focus on one brick at a time and tackle one section of the wall at a time. Before you know it, the wall is complete. The same applies to your book.
"Focus on one brick at a time and tackle one section of the wall at a time."
2. Create a Dedicated Writing Space
Having a designated writing space can significantly impact your productivity. Find a quiet and comfortable area where you can focus and let your creativity flow. This space should be free from distractions, allowing you to immerse yourself in your writing. Personalise your writing space with inspiring items, such as books, quotes, artwork or even your identity statements. If you don’t know what those are you need to get in touch as how you see yourself and in turn what your beliefs and values are will all impact on whether you stick to your habits. By associating this space with your writing routine, you'll signal to your brain that it's time to focus and dive into your book. You can enhance this brain signalling by using essential oils or music to help you focus. Do not underestimate the impact this can have on kicking your brain into creativity/ writing mode.
Find a quiet and comfortable area where you can focus and let your creativity flow.
3. Establish a Consistent Writing Schedule
Consistency is key to forming a habit. Set aside dedicated time for writing in your daily or weekly schedule. Treat it as an important appointment with yourself that you can't miss. It might be early in the morning, during lunch breaks, or in the evening—choose a time that works best for you. Stick to this schedule as much as possible, even if it's only for a short period. Over time, this routine will become ingrained, making it easier to sit down and write, regardless of external distractions or excuses.
Set aside dedicated time for writing in your daily or weekly schedule.
4. Embrace Freewriting and Drafting
To overcome writer's block and unleash your creativity, embrace freewriting and drafting. During these sessions, allow yourself to write without judgement or self-editing. Set a timer and write continuously, letting your ideas flow onto the page. Don't worry about perfection—focus on getting words on paper. This exercise helps generate ideas and build momentum. By separating the creative process from the editing process, you'll feel more liberated to explore your story and develop your book. Clients I have worked with often say they have a block and it’s normally because they can’t decide whether to include something that is on their mind. It might be a personal part of your life if you are writing a memoir or deciding how relevant something is to a story or non-fiction book. Whenever you find yourself overthinking or second-guessing, that’s the time for freewriting. Let it flow and decide later.
Set a timer and write continuously, letting your ideas flow onto the page.
5. Find an Accountability Partner or Writing Group
Accountability can be a powerful motivator. Connect with fellow aspiring authors or join a writing group where you can share your progress, seek feedback, and offer support to others. This is why I set up my Aspiring Authors Programme. Not only does it have content to guide you through the entire book-writing and self-publishing process but we have an accountability community and group calls that are great opportunities to support one another. An accountability partner or group can help you stay on track and provide valuable encouragement during challenging times. By participating in discussions and sharing experiences, you'll feel connected to a community that understands the joys and struggles of writing a book.
Connect with fellow aspiring authors or join a writing group where you can share your progress, seek feedback, and offer support to others.
Developing a writing habit is crucial for aspiring authors looking to bring their books to life. By setting achievable goals, creating a dedicated writing space, establishing a consistent writing schedule, embracing freewriting, and finding an accountability partner or writing group, you can cultivate a productive writing routine. Remember, forming a habit takes time and effort, but with perseverance, you'll progress and transform your aspiration into an actual book. Start today, and let your inner author emerge. Happy writing!
If you’re looking for support with your writing, book a call to see how I can help.