Why Building a Writing Habit Is Holding You Back—Try This Shocking Alternative Instead
Ever wonder why everyone’s telling you to “build a writing habit” like it’s some kind of ancient secret, kinda like flossing or double-knotting your sneakers before that morning jog? Honestly, when I first heard that, I thought, “Come on—writing’s supposed to be about sparks of genius, right? Magic moments where words just pour out.” But here’s the kicker—what if that ‘habit’ everyone warns about isn’t the enemy but the real MVP of your writing journey? I mean, Stephen King didn’t just wake up a legend; he made a deliberate choice, day in and day out, to become the writer we all admire. Turns out, writing isn’t some mystical act of sheer inspiration—it’s a craft honed by conscious willpower and, yep, habits forged over time. If you’re freelancing solo or striking out on your own, cracking the code on practical, everyday writing habits might just be the game-changer you didn’t know you needed. Ready to take that step?
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Word Wise: Practical Writing Tips for Freelancers and Solopreneurs
Just for today, make a choice.
“Build a writing habit.”
That was the relentless advice I received when I started writing. Furthermore, I was told, the best writing habit is to write every day.
“Habit” sounds B-O-R-I-N-G, especially to a new writer brimming with enthusiasm. A habit is an automatic routine, like flossing my teeth or washing my hands before I eat or double-knotting my sneaker shoelaces before I pound the pavement.
But writing? It’s generated by inspiration and genius. Intriguing insights flood from my brain onto the screen. My fountain of sparkling words can change the world!
Yet all the while, as I willed those magical thoughts to emerge from my fingertips, my mentors’ advice niggled at the edges of my mind.
By providence, these sage words from prolific novelist Stephen King crossed my path. “I think that writers are made, not born,” he wrote in Danse Macabre. “Becoming a writer … is a direct result of conscious will.”
The human will leads to action. In other words, becoming a writer was a choice in how I spent my time. Or as I’d find out, a choice I needed to make over and over, each day, until it became automatic.
Like a habit.
The best writing habits for new (and seasoned writers)
Ask any successful writer to name the habits that have contributed to their achievements, and you’ll hear …
- Read widely. Explore various writing styles, genres, and authors to broaden your understanding of language and storytelling techniques.
- Keep a journal or notebook. Don’t lose those ideas that flit into your mind. Jot down interesting illustrations, fun facts, character ideas, plot twists, or anything that triggers your imagination.
- Set writing goals. Write a blog post every week … one short story per month … 10 pitches a day.
- Learn the craft. Read books on writing, take classes, and follow blogs to improve your understanding of…
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