Hey writers! Welcome back to Better Writing in 5, your go-to spot for tips that help you write more, procrastinate less, and maybe even remember to eat lunch. We know—writing every day sounds impossible when you’ve got a full-time job, a social calendar, and the constant temptation to scroll through TikTok. But guess what? Writing every day is possible, and it doesn’t have to be painful. Promise.
Here are 5 simple habits to help you write every day, even when life’s crazy:
1. Write first, not last
If you’re waiting until after work to write, we need to talk. By then, your brain is mush. The only thing you’ll be drafting is a list of excuses. Want to write every day? Write first thing in the morning. Set your alarm 20-30 minutes earlier—yes, we know, it’s evil—but trust, it’s worth it. The world is quiet, your inbox isn’t screaming, and you get those words down before your brain decides to self-destruct. Writing early sets you up for a successful day. It’s like breakfast for your creativity.
2. Show up, don’t flake
Would you cancel a dentist appointment? Of course not! So why cancel your writing time? Block out a set time every day, whether it’s in the morning, during lunch, or after work, and treat it like an unmissable meeting. Tell your family, friends, and coworkers: this time is sacred. When writing becomes a non-negotiable part of your day, it stops feeling like a “nice-to-do” and starts feeling like a “have-to-do.” You wouldn’t bail on your dentist, so don’t bail on your writing.
3. Get in the zone, stay in the zone
Rituals aren’t just for Super Bowl Sundays—they’re for writers, too. Set up a routine that signals to your brain that it’s time to write. Maybe it’s a specific chair, a cup of coffee, or even just wearing your “writing hoodie.” Whatever it is, it helps your brain switch into creativity mode. Think of it like the mental equivalent of stretching before a run—only without the sweat. Once you start, your brain knows it’s time to get to work!
4. Start small, stay consistent
Let’s face it: writing 1,000 words a day sounds like a cruel joke when you’re already juggling a million things. So don’t worry about hitting huge word counts right away. Start with 200-300 words. Or write for 10 minutes if you’re really strapped for time. The goal is to develop the habit, not to crank out a masterpiece every day. Small, consistent wins are what add up to a finished novel. Remember: it’s consistency, not perfection, that makes you a writer.
5. Keep it up, keep on track
Remember how exciting it was as a kid to get a gold star for doing something good? Why not bring that back? Track your daily writing achievements, whether on a calendar, an app, or with a sticky note. Looking back at a series of check marks is sooo satisfying. You’ll feel like a total rock star when you see all the progress you’ve made. A few sentences today, a paragraph tomorrow—before you know it, you’ve got an entire draft. Gold stars aren’t just for kids—they’re for writers who kick butt.
Conclusion
Writing every day doesn’t require hours of free time. It’s about creating small, sustainable habits that fit into your daily routine. Treat your writing like an appointment, create a ritual, start small, and track your progress. Before you know it, writing will be as automatic as checking your email—and a lot more rewarding.