Ever wondered what separates successful writers from the rest of us? It’s not some elusive talent or divine inspiration; it’s something much more attainable: consistency. Building a thriving writing routine is all about taking small, regular steps over time. So, forget the misconception that it requires writing for hours every day or devoting one entire day a week to your craft. That’s not how our brains work optimally. We’re wired for focused bursts of productivity, followed by short breaks. Let’s dive into the art of consistency and how you can harness its power to elevate your writing game.
Cal Newport’s “Deep Work” Philosophy
Cal Newport, in his illuminating book “Deep Work,” unveils the secret to creating your best work: the state of flow. And here’s the kicker – you don’t need marathon writing sessions to achieve it. You can start with just ten minutes of writing every morning, commit to a specific word count, or designate certain days exclusively for your craft. The key is finding what works best for you and sticking to it consistently.
The Resistance and the Power of Small Steps
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: resistance. Your mind will wander during your writing sessions, and the siren call of distractions will be strong. But here’s the golden rule – stay the course, even if you only manage to put down a single word. With time, you’ll find it easier to slip into the elusive state of flow.
You might be thinking that half an hour per day won’t get you far, especially with the looming threats of procrastination and distractions. But don’t underestimate the impact of small, consistent steps. In his book “Atomic Habits,” James Clear highlights that even a one percent improvement, seemingly trivial, can lead to monumental progress over time.
The Astonishing Power of Consistency
Let’s break it down further. Suppose you commit to writing just one page a day. In a year, you’d have a complete draft of a book. Imagine the sense of achievement! Alternatively, if you choose to edit five pages daily, you could polish off an entire book in just two months. And for those craving a steady stream of story ideas, crafting one pitch a week results in a whopping 52 unique story concepts annually.
Embrace the Journey with “The Power of Yet”
Now, let’s talk mindset. Your writing journey won’t always be smooth sailing. You might not churn out your best work from the get-go, and that’s perfectly normal. In “The Power of Yet,” Carol Dweck introduces a powerful concept: “Yet” allows you to envision future growth and improvement. You may not be where you aspire to be in your writing journey right now, but with each consistent effort, you’re inching closer to your ideal writing life.
Building a Community of Writers
Writing is often seen as a solitary pursuit, but it doesn’t have to be. Along your journey, you’ll discover a vibrant women writers network, full of women who are each on their unique path. Don’t hesitate to reach out, connect, and support one another. Share your progress, your struggles, and your victories. Building a writing routine that endures is not just a personal mission; it’s a collective effort. There is power in community. If you’re looking for a support system, online writing groups are a great place to start. Check out the Inspired Writer Community. There, you will find a community of women writers who can provide accountability, feedback, and friendship.
Whether you dedicate ten minutes every morning, adhere to a specific word count, or set aside specific writing days, remember this: consistency is your ticket to success. Embrace its power and witness your writing soar to new heights. Your future self will thank you, and you’ll be well on your way to living your ideal writing life. So, what are you waiting for? Start your journey today, and let consistency work its magic in your writing routine.
Click here for a complete guide to building your ideal writing life.
