New Year, New Words: Mastering Your January Writing Routine

With the New Year in full swing, many of you may have set ambitious goals for the year ahead. And if you’re reading this, I think it’s safe for me to assume that one of your big goals is to write a book this year. If you’re serious about achieving this goal, we have some ideas to help you establish a strong writing routine from the start. Here are seven tips for creating a January routine that will set you up for success in 2024.

1. Set Achievable Daily Goals

Writers often find the most overwhelming part of writing a book to be thinking about the number of words needed to write to complete the manuscript. Instead of focusing on the end goal, however, break it down into small, achievable daily goals. For example, if you plan to write a 50,000-word book in a year, set a goal to write 500 words each day. This may not seem like much, but this small writing routine will produce a large word count over time.

2. Establish a Regular Writing Time

Consistency is a key part of establishing a writing routine. Set aside a specific time each day for writing and make it a priority. This might mean waking up an hour earlier, adding it to your lunch break, or staying up a little later. Whatever works for you, make sure it’s a time when you can focus without interruptions.

3. Create a Dedicated Writing Space

A dedicated writing space can help you get into the right mindset for writing. It doesn’t have to be a fancy office—a corner of your living room or a quiet coffee shop work as well. Just make sure it’s a place where you feel comfortable and inspired.

4. Use Prompts to Jumpstart Your Creativity

Sometimes, the hardest part of writing is getting started. Using prompts can help ignite your creativity and get your words flowing. Plenty of online resources exist for writing prompts, or you can create your own based on your story or characters. Don’t let your writing routine lag simply because you’re not sure what to put on paper.

5. Take Breaks and Recharge

Writing can be mentally and emotionally draining, so it’s important to take breaks and recharge. This might mean taking a walk, meditating, or doing something completely unrelated to writing. Taking breaks can also help you be more productive in the long run because they can prevent burnout.

6. Join a Writing Community

Writing can be a solitary pursuit, but it doesn’t have to be. Joining a writing community can provide you with support, inspiration, and accountability. You can join a local writing group, participate in online forums, or even start a writing group with friends.

7. Celebrate Your Progress

Finally, don’t forget to celebrate your progress along the way. Whether it’s reaching a word count milestone or finishing a chapter, take time to acknowledge your accomplishments. Celebrating your progress can help keep you motivated and inspired to keep going.

TL;DR

By establishing a strong writing routine this month, you’ll set yourself up for success in writing a book this year. Remember to set achievable daily goals, establish a regular writing time and space, use prompts to jumpstart your creativity, take breaks and recharge, join a writing community, and celebrate your progress. With persistence and creativity, you can achieve your writing goals and bring your book to life.