The Writing Hacks I Use Every Day

There isn't a single site you can scroll where someone isn't going to try and throw the word hacks or tips at you. 

There are hacks to lose weight, to make women fall in love with you, and surprising to no one - there are also hacks for writing. 

Now I don't mean hacks as in:

Try this one miracle thing to finish your novel in 60 seconds 

I mean everyday behavior modification that you can add to your daily routine that will help you write with less frustration and get the most out of your writing sessions. 

But "hacks" just made for a better title. 

Hack #1 

Start With Just 15 Minutes

Sometimes I just can't bring myself to write. I can have my tea and snack ready to go, open my software, and put on the right mood music, but I still can't get into the right mindset to write.

I can sit at my desk for an hour and get nothing down except hurt my back sitting curled over on my desk and scrolling through my phone. 

When this happens I tell myself that all I need to do is write a little bit, just enough that I will have written something so that the entire day isn't a complete no-writing day. 

I'll set a timer and tell myself I only have to write till it ends. Somedays this is the push I need to start a writing session and I end up writing for a few more hours while on others I end up closing the program and completing some other productive tasks for the day instead - but at least I wrote something. 

Hack #2

Pomodoro's 

I will not write without a Pomodoro clock ever again. I use them daily in my writing practice as well as in my writing streams live on Twitch (https://www.twitch.tv/barbara_king) 

A pomodoro is the process of on-again and off-again productivity. Typically working in sprints of 25 minutes of work, followed by a 5-minute break. 

This process keeps me on track while allowing for breaks that I can use for stretching, getting a drink, or honestly - scrolling through my phone or checking social media until the bell rings and it's time to get back to work. 

This method keeps me focused and productive and allows me the time to complete the tasks that would normally pull me away from writing. 

Hack #3

 Celebrating Small Wins 

While this one seems strange to be a hack, changing the way you look at your accomplishments can do wonders for your mindset and improve your productivity. 

Writing can be challenging and it's easy to get discouraged so taking the time to acknowledge and celebrate your achievements is a practice that every writer should practice.

Be proud of how many words you write, even if it's just a few, and even if there aren't any. It's ok if some days you don't have the time to write or if you need to rest and relax. Your physical and mental health is important to care for as well. 

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There are always things you can add to your writing routine that can help you on your writing journey whether you need something to help you be more productive or something to motivate you to start putting down those words.

Best of luck!

With love, 

B.K. xo xo

Want to write with me live? I'm now on Twitch! Come join me in some writing sprints most days at 10:00 pm EST

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