Writing is a skill that requires structure, discipline and hardwork so that you can create consistent good quality work. Developing a writing routine can help you improve and master your writing skills to a great extent and help you progress in your craft. Here are five ways you can develop a good writing routine to master this art of the written word:
When it comes to writing, the first thing you must do is to create a schedule and decide when to write. Choose the time and part of the day when you feel most creative and alert and keep that as your writing time. For instance, if you are a morning person and wake up early, schedule your writing time for early morning. You must also be consistent and keep a regular writing time so that you can devote those few hours of the day to mastering your writing skills.
Since writing is such a creative task, it is important that you do your writing in a creative and artsy spot. Find a place where you feel most comfortable like a cosy corner of your home, an artistic cafe, a quiet library or your lawn. You can even surround yourself with books and writing quotes to keep yourself inspired to write.
In order to maintain your writing routine, you need to set out clear goals for each day. Start the day by listing down the goals you want to achieve like writing one chapter, developing a character or doing editing and proofreading. You can also break down your big tasks into small and manageable tasks so that you can stay focused on your goal.
It is very easy to get distracted while writing and so it is important that you identify and remove these distractions in advance. For instance, you can switch off your phone or hide the notifications for the time period when you are writing. You can also install social-media blocking apps that will prevent you from logging into your social media accounts. You can also tell your friends and family that you are writing and do not need any distractions for that period of time.
In order to keep your creative juices flowing and maintain a good and steady writing routine, it is important that you develop a self-care routine. Take care of your health, eat good nutritious food, read a lot of books, listen to music, spend time with friends, go for walks, exercise regularly and meditate at the end of the day. When your mind and body is at rest, it will be able to relax and be more creative and alert during your writing schedule.
Using the above tips you can create a good and consistent writing routine that will help you produce good quality writing. The important thing to remember is to minimise distractions, create an environment favourable to writing, set clear goals, devote a schedule and take care of yourself. Each person’s writing routine can differ so adjust these five steps according to your preferences to create a writing routine that suits you best.