Hey there, fellow writer! Let’s kick back, grab a warm cup of coffee (or tea, if you’re trying to manage your heart rate), and chat about productivity without the stress.
Because who said being productive had to feel like a marathon, right? I know we’re in a world that tells us if we aren’t being productive, we aren’t achieving greatness. But that can lead to total burnout and a whole lot of depression… who wants that?
Here are some chilled-out productivity hacks that might just sprinkle some magic into your writing routine and hopefully keep you from feeling like you’re banging your head against the wall and not getting anything done!
1. Get Cozy with Goals
You know those dreams you have for your writing? Let's break them down into little, bite-sized goals. That way, you can celebrate each tiny victory along the way. It’s like creating your own personalized roadmap to success. Who says we have to wait until we win an award or hit a best sellers list to cheer for our progress? Wrote 500 words? Celebrate! Finished that blog post you’ve been putting off writing? Have a piece of candy! Finally published your book… anyone say wine time? Break down that big goal into tiny milestones and it will keep you going until you hit the big one!
2. Dance with Routine, but Keep It Groovy
Sure, routines can be great, but they don’t have to be rigid. Find your flow and let your writing groove follow that rhythm. If mornings aren’t your thing, who says you can't rock your writing world at midnight?
For me, I have an “Ideal Schedule” on my wall in my office. Yes, its… this is how I see things going. Does that happen everyday? NO! But on days when I’m sitting and staring off into space, not sure what to do next, I can look at that Working Routing list on the wall, check the time and do whatever it says I should be doing at that time. It gets me right back on track and takes away that pressure of what to do next.
3. Tools Are Your Sidekicks
Tech can be a writer’s best bud. Embrace the tools that vibe with your style—whether it’s a sleek writing app, a trusty grammar checker, or even good ol' pen and paper. They’re here to make your life easier, not more complicated.
Don’t get overwhelmed with looking for the tools either. There are so many recommendations. When you find something that works for you, stick with it. I get the hype for Scrivner almost every time I speak with other writer. But you know what? I’m a Microsoft girly. It’s always worked well for me and I don’t plan on changing it. If it ain’t broke, you better leave it alone!
Ever heard of the Pomodoro Technique? It's not just a fancy name; it's your ticket to guilt-free breaks. Work for a bit, chill for a bit, and repeat. It’s like a mini writing retreat right at your desk.
I have started playing a game on my phone during my chill sessions. I’m building a hotel. And I think it causes me more stress than I need, but when I get back to my desk I’m ready to go. I’ll also switch up what I do during my chill time. I’ll paint, read, or heck, take a nap…sometimes you just need a dang nap!
5. Take Mindful Breathers
This tip came straight from my therapist. Yes. I am in therapy. And it’s a part of my routine that keeps me sane. All the voices in my head, someone has to be in charge of making sure they don’t break my mind!
Anyway…. Breathe in, breathe out.
Mindfulness isn’t just for yoga class; it’s a superpower for writers too. Take breaks, stretch, or simply gaze out the window watching the clouds. See any fund shapes? Let your mind wander—it might just stumble upon your next brilliant idea or not, and that’s great too!
6. Embrace the Journey
Deadlines are like stars in the sky—guiding lights, not stress bombs. Set realistic ones that give you enough space to create without feeling like you’re in a writing sprint. I know we’re all trying to keep up with the juggernauts in publishing. Those authors pumping out a book every other week. Maybe that is realistic for them, but that doesn’t have to be your story. If that’s too stressful, throw it out the window and find a timeline that works for you!
I’m down to just a few books a year and I love it. It’s much more realistic for my life and the way I process my stories.
7. Hang with Fellow Writers
I’ve said this so many times before… you need a community! Writing can be a solitary gig, but it doesn’t have to be lonely. Connect with other writers, swap stories, share struggles, and find solace in knowing you’re not alone on this wild writing adventure.
I’m giving you this advice knowing full well it’s something I struggle with. I like sitting in my cave of dragon figures and stories and not talking to anyone for months. But its not good for me or for my work. I’m actively trying to fix this. The introvert in me hates it, but the storyteller is in heaven now.
8. Treat Yo’ Self
I’m saying this again because I think we often refuse this step. Let me tell you something… you deserve it! Celebrate your victories, big or small. Whether it’s a piece of cake, a walk in the park, or a binge-watch session, honor your hard work and keep that positive mojo flowing.
I hope this helps the writers out there who may be struggling with keeping things productive and moving forward. Ultimately it’s the things we do to support our productivity that make the most impact. We must create an environment that supports our creativity and takes away the stress.
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