If you’re a writer, chances are you’re thinking about developing good writing habits.
My work colleague Alex is a writer too. We usually complain about the fact that we “don’t have time” to write.
Now, since we’re saving commuting time and working from home, we’re encouraging each other to write. With any luck, by the time things return to normal we’ll have created solid writing habits which will stay with us.
But how do you develop a habit?
Writing habits: repeat an activity until it’s a habit
…never allow an exception to your new habit pattern during the formative stages. Don’t make excuses or rationalizations.
Alex and I decided that we’ll stick with the following two activities for 21 days until they become habits. (In the above article, Brian Tracy suggests that it takes 21 days to establish a habit.)
This year my journaling has been very dry however. I’ve confined myself to calendars and task lists for work.
It’s time to get back to creating a proper writing journal, focused on writing.
I’m including quotes from writers, like this one from Hilary Mantel’s The Mirror and The Light:
Henry likes to utter his sin and be forgiven. He is sincerely sorry, he will not do it again. And in this case perhaps he will not. The temptation to cut off your wife’s head does not arise every year.
Ms Mantel’s writing is a joy; it offers a surprise on every page.
Are you working on developing good writing habits too?
In the uncertain times, writing and journaling are good ways to relax and release stress.
Henry (Henrietta) Eardley makes a huge mistake. Then she makes it worse. She's never known a man like Lord Devernwood, and he's never met a woman like her.
At 24, not only is Molly Ballantine stunning, she has two sisters she loves, and a wonderful career. Then her eldest sister Tara vanishes, and her life disintegrates.
Molly's life is about to become even more chaotic. She wakes up in a brothel with a man who's too good-looking for her peace of mind.
Writing commercial fiction is a challenge for many authors. Have you ever said: "I can't plot...?" If you have, your struggles with plotting your fiction are over.
