With the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it can be hard to carve out consistent time to devote to your writing projects. Developing a writing routine that works for you and your schedule can be a huge help in maintaining momentum for your writing.  Everyone’s schedule looks a bit different, so there’s no singular routine that will work for all writers. Nonetheless, there are a few tips to get started that can be modified to fit your routine. 

First, assess what time of day you feel the most motivation and inspiration, and have time to write. This can vary based on weekdays versus weekends but recognizing when your creative juices are flowing is a great first step to developing a routine. For example, on workdays, you might take time in the evenings to write, versus on weekends you might have the time and inspiration to write in the mornings. From here, you can designate a certain amount of time during that period to write. 

Setting goals for each writing session can also help develop a successful routine. You might set a timer for 30 minutes and set out to work at least until the timer goes off. You could also set out to write at least 500  words, and again, not stop until you reach that amount. Regardless, you should make your goal something very attainable, and therefore able to become part of a sustainable routine. You’ll most likely feel more accomplished, and therefore more motivated to continue, if you meet a daily goal. Also, you can always write more or for longer than your daily goal, which will make you feel even more productive! 

Another thing to consider when forming your routine is your daily writing environment. Along with a certain time and set goals, you might want to designate a specific writing space free of interruptions and distractions. Whether that’s a coffee shop, a home office, or even your living room, as long as the space allows concentration it can be a great place to carry out your routine. 

Finally, the most important part of developing a writing routine is discipline. Even on busy days, you should try to find time to write to ensure it becomes a daily habit. Of course, life happens, and if you have to take a day off, don’t let it get you down. The most important thing is to have a go-to routine so that you can always easily fall into a defined schedule.