If you are trying to prioritize your writing projects, building a writing routine is important. It allows you to manage your time better while also writing as frequently as possible. The following are some essential tips for building your routine!

The first thing to do when you’re trying to build a writing routine that works for you is to find a time that works best for you. If you have a work schedule that typically doesn’t change, pick a time you are free to dedicate to writing. This can be an entire day or a few hours each day. By having a set time to write, you give yourself a consistent responsibility that can prevent you from procrastinating.

However, free time is not the only thing you should take into consideration when planning to write. You should write when you are most energized and inspired. It is harder to write creatively when you are already drained from a long day at work, so avoid planning your writing routine during times you already know you don’t feel like doing anything. For example, when I get off work, I don’t feel like doing anything but sleeping, so I don’t typically write anything as soon as I get home. If I do, everything I write seems like gibberish because I don’t have the brain power to put forth any effort. Therefore, I only write on my days off or after I’ve had time to recover from my work shift.

Instead of allocating a certain amount of time to writing, you can focus on a specific daily word count. This word count can be whatever you want it to be—as long as it gets you to write. This can be especially helpful if you are working on a big project because it lets you break it down into chunks instead of feeling as if you have to write an entire novel in one sitting.

Joining a writing group can also be a helpful addition to your writing routine. By having a writing group, you have people who can hold you accountable and motivate you to keep writing. As there are other people expecting you to share something each time you meet up, you are more likely to work on your projects.

If you have writer’s block that prevents you from working on your project, use prompts so that you’re still able to write to reach your word count goal for the day. Prompts can also help you overcome writer’s block by potentially inspiring and motivating you to go back to your main project.

Your writing routine is meant to inspire you to write, not stress you out further, so you should slowly ease your way into it. You don’t have to write 5,000 words on your first day nor do you have to write for ten hours straight. Create a space to write where you feel relaxed yet motivated to write. Find what works for you; your writing routine doesn’t have to resemble anyone else’s.