Hey writers! Welcome back to Better Writing in 5, your favorite place to find tips that help you keep writing—even when your schedule’s as packed as a holiday shopping mall. We get it—life is busy. Finding time to write can feel impossible, but here’s the secret: a solid writing routine. The best part? These routines help you write smarter, not harder!

So, let’s dive in with 5 writing routines that’ll have you writing more in less time:

1. Designate a writing time

Consistency is key, folks. You wouldn’t skip brushing your teeth, right? (at least we hope not). So don’t skip your writing time either. Find a time each day that works for you and treat it like a meeting you can’t miss. Whether you’re a crack-of-dawn writer or a late-night novel ninja, block it off in your calendar like it’s an important Zoom call (without the mute button accidents). When you treat writing like a must-do, it’ll become a natural part of your day. Trust, you’ll be surprised how quickly it becomes a habit.

2. Develop a pre-writing ritual

You know how athletes have their pre-game rituals? Well, writers need one too. Whether it’s brewing a cup of coffee, doing a quick 5-minute stretch, or listening to a pump-up playlist (think: Rocky theme music), this routine signals to your brain that it’s time to get creative. Do it before every writing session, and your brain will say, “Oh yeah, it’s time to write!” Think of it like giving your brain a “warm-up lap” before the big race. And who doesn’t love a good pre-game snack?

3. Divide time into blocks

Let’s talk about the Pomodoro technique—no, it’s not a fancy pasta dish (although we wish it was). This technique involves setting a timer for 25 minutes, writing your heart out, then taking a 5-minute break. Repeat. After four “Pomodoros,” take a longer break (15-30 minutes). This will help you stay focused without feeling like your brain is going to explode. It’s like interval training for your brain—except way less sweaty and with more coffee breaks.

4. Dedicate a distraction-free zone

We get it—you love checking your social media. But guess what? Social media isn’t going to write your novel for you. To make the most of your writing time, find a spot that’s just for writing. It could be a corner of your living room, a café that doesn’t judge you for nursing the same coffee for hours, or a hidden spot in your local library. The key? Leave your phone, email, and distractions behind. When you step into this space, your brain will know: Time to write. The only scrolling you should be doing is with your pen (or keyboard).

5. Draft faster

Ever heard of a “writing sprint”? It’s like a burst of energy for your brain. The idea is simple: set a timer for a short, focused period (like 10-20 minutes), and write as much as you can, no interruptions, no second-guessing. You’ll be amazed at how much you can produce when the pressure’s on. And if you aren’t too shy, try sprinting with a group! Join a writing sprint session online, or even challenge your writing buddies to a “who can write more in 10 minutes” competition. Make it fun and competitive—because who doesn’t love a little friendly rivalry?

Conclusion

Writing more in less time isn’t about working yourself to the bone. It’s about creating consistent habits, limiting distractions, and making the most of the time you’ve got. Stick to your routine, keep your goals manageable, and write smarter, not harder.