Finding the Right [Writing] Habit

How much is the “right” amount to write, and when?

Much like Finding the Right [Writing] Process, sometimes finding the Right [Writing] Habit can seem quite the daunting task. And much like process, habits vary greatly as well.

When I say writing habit, I mean the actual sitting down and working on a piece, whether that be drafting, research, character creation, or something else. Of course, there are supplemental pieces (like taking care of yourself) to these habits, but they aren’t what I’m talking about here.

Some of the most popular I have seen are daily writing goals–whether  an amount of time, number of words, or number of scenes/chapters. Others include writing at a certain time of the day or in a particular place. No matter what, there seems to be a key component of successful writing–making it consistent. Habitual.

Why do so many habits exist? Because people are different, processes are different, and what works for one person isn’t going to work for everyone else.

Everyone’s life is a little different. A different schedule, a different set of stressors, a different personality. All these things combine to make a situation unique. To find the writing habit that works for you, try something. If it doesn’t work, try something else.

Please note: writing will not become a habit if you don’t work at it. There is no replacement for hard work.

 

Here are some posts on writing habits*:

Ellen Mulholland’s “how goal-setting inspires creativity” (in fact, check out her entire “Tips for New Authors” collection).

Lit Reactor article by Robbie Blair “Write Every Day in 2014: 14 Steps for Forming A Writing Habit“

(Daily writing) Article by Mattan Griffel “How to Develop a Daily Writing Habit“

*Listing here does not equal my endorsement

Are you a writer? What are your habits? Have you found what works for you, or are you still searching?