Step 3.3: Create a Writing Routine – On Making Habits

Writing a novel is a monumental undertaking that requires more than just inspiration and talent; it demands discipline and consistency. In Step 3 of our author’s guide, we delve into the art of making writing a habit by sticking to your schedule. This crucial step is the linchpin of a successful writing routine, allowing you to transform your novel-writing aspirations into a tangible reality.

The Power of Writing Habits

Writing habits are the bedrock upon which successful authors build their careers. They provide structure, foster creativity, and ensure steady progress toward your writing goals. Here’s why cultivating writing habits is crucial:

1. Consistency: Habits are all about consistency. Regular writing sessions, integrated into your daily or weekly routine, ensure that you’re consistently working on your novel.

2. Skill Improvement: Just as athletes improve with daily practice, writers enhance their skills through regular writing. Habits enable you to refine your writing style, storytelling techniques, and problem-solving abilities.

3. Overcoming Resistance: Resistance is a common obstacle for writers. Habits help you push through resistance by making writing a non-negotiable part of your life.

4. Efficiency: Habitual writing sessions make you more efficient. When writing becomes a natural part of your routine, you’re less likely to procrastinate or waste time on unrelated tasks.

5. Achieving Goals: Writing habits provide a structured approach to reaching your writing goals. Whether it’s completing a novel, drafting chapters, or meeting word count targets, habits keep you on track.

6. Stress Reduction: Knowing when and where you’ll write reduces the stress of decision-making. When writing is habitual, you don’t have to wonder when inspiration will strike; you create your inspiration through your writing habit.

Creating Writing Habits

Creating and maintaining writing habits require intentional effort and commitment. Here are steps to help you establish effective writing habits:

1. Set Clear Goals: Define your writing goals, both short-term and long-term. Whether it’s completing a chapter, finishing a draft, or meeting daily word count targets, having clear objectives provides motivation and direction.

2. Choose a Writing Schedule: Determine when and how often you’ll write. Select a schedule that aligns with your lifestyle and energy levels. Whether it’s daily, weekly, or a combination, consistency is key.

3. Create a Writing Space: Designate a specific place for your writing sessions. This space should be quiet, comfortable, and conducive to creativity. Make it your writing sanctuary.

4. Prioritize Writing Time: Treat your writing sessions as non-negotiable appointments with yourself. Prioritize them on your calendar and avoid rescheduling or canceling.

5. Start Small: If you’re new to writing habits, start with manageable goals. Even a short daily writing session of 15 to 30 minutes can be a significant start.

6. Develop Pre-Writing Rituals: Establish pre-writing rituals that signal the start of each session. This could include making a cup of tea, reviewing your notes, or reading a paragraph from your favorite book.

7. Set Clear Objectives: Before each writing session, define what you aim to accomplish. Having specific goals keeps you focused and motivated.

8. Eliminate Distractions: Minimize distractions during your writing time. Inform family members, friends, or colleagues about your schedule, silence your phone, and turn off notifications on your computer.

9. Track Your Progress: Maintain a writing journal or use writing apps to record your session results. Note the word count, ideas, or any challenges you encountered. Tracking your progress provides valuable insights into your writing habits.

10. Review and Adjust: Periodically review your writing habits to ensure they remain effective. Adjust your routine as needed to accommodate changes in your life or writing goals.

The Science of Habit Formation

Understanding the science behind habit formation can help you establish and maintain your writing habits more effectively. According to Charles Duhigg, author of “The Power of Habit,” habits are comprised of three components: cue, routine, and reward.

• Cue: The cue is the trigger that initiates the habit. It’s the signal that prompts you to start writing. For example, your cue could be a specific time of day, entering your writing space, or even a particular song.

• Routine: The routine is the habit itself—the action you take in response to the cue. In this case, it’s your writing session, where you put words on paper.

• Reward: The reward is the positive outcome or satisfaction you gain from completing the habit. It reinforces the habit loop and makes you more likely to repeat it. For writers, the reward may include the sense of accomplishment, progress on your novel, or the joy of creative expression.

To establish a writing habit, you need to design a cue that triggers your writing routine and ensures a rewarding experience. Here’s how to apply this concept to your writing habits:

1. Cue: Choose a consistent cue that signals the start of your writing sessions. It could be a specific time of day, lighting a candle, or putting on a favorite playlist. Make it something you associate exclusively with writing.

2. Routine: Your writing routine involves sitting down and writing during your designated sessions. It’s the core action that you want to make habitual.

3. Reward: After each writing session, reward yourself with something positive. This could be a small treat, a moment of relaxation, or a sense of satisfaction for making progress on your novel.

By creating a strong habit loop with a clear cue, routine, and reward, you can make writing an ingrained part of your life.

Overcoming Common Challenges

While establishing writing habits is essential, it’s not without its challenges. Here are some common obstacles writers face when trying to make writing a habit and strategies to overcome them:

1. Procrastination: Procrastination often stems from resistance or self-doubt. To combat it, remind yourself of your goals and the rewards of completing your writing habit.

2. Lack of Time: Many aspiring authors struggle to find time for writing amidst busy lives. Prioritize writing by scheduling sessions during your most available and productive hours.

3. Burnout: Overcommitting to writing sessions can lead to burnout. Start small and gradually increase your writing time as your habit solidifies.

4. Distractions: Distractions can derail your writing habit. Minimize them by creating a dedicated writing space and silencing notifications during sessions.

5. Lack of Motivation: Motivation can wane over time. To stay motivated, set milestones, engage with writing communities, and celebrate your achievements along the way.

6. Perfectionism: Striving for perfection can hinder your writing habit. Embrace imperfection and focus on progress rather than perfection in your writing.

7. External Pressures: Life’s demands can interfere with your writing habit. Communicate your writing schedule to those around you and enlist their support in maintaining your routine.

8. Unpredictable Schedules: For those with unpredictable schedules, adaptability is key. Set aside alternative times for writing to accommodate shifts and changes in your routine.

The 21-Day Myth

You may have heard the claim that it takes 21 days to form a habit. While this number is often cited, it’s important to understand that habit formation varies from person to person. Some may establish habits more quickly, while others may take longer. The key is consistency and commitment to your writing routine.

Maintaining Writing Habits

Once you’ve established your writing habits, maintaining them is crucial. Here are strategies to help you sustain your writing routine over the long term:

1. Accountability: Share your writing goals and habits with a trusted friend or writing partner. Being accountable to someone else can help you stay committed.

2. Routine Check-Ins: Periodically review your writing habits and their effectiveness. Adjust your schedule and goals as needed to ensure they continue to serve your writing journey.

3. Mindfulness: Practice mindfulness and self-awareness during your writing sessions. Pay attention to the positive feelings and rewards you experience as you write, reinforcing the habit loop.

4. Celebrate Milestones: Celebrate your writing milestones, whether it’s completing a chapter, reaching a word count target, or finishing a draft. Recognizing your achievements keeps you motivated.

5. Join Writing Communities: Engage with writing communities and forums. Sharing your progress, challenges, and successes with fellow writers can provide encouragement and motivation.

6. Track Your Progress: Continue tracking your progress using writing journals or apps. Seeing your achievements in black and white reinforces the value of your writing habit.

The Magic of Consistency

Making writing a habit by sticking to your schedule is a transformative step in your journey as an author. It turns your writing aspirations into concrete actions, ensuring that you make steady progress on your novel. The consistent practice of your craft not only enhances your writing skills but also deepens your connection with storytelling. Embrace the power of writing habits, cultivate them with intention, and watch as your creative journey unfolds, one word at a time. In the next step, we’ll explore techniques for enhancing your writing skills and honing your craft as an author.