So recently, a lot of things have been changing around here. Previously, I had been working at a technology center in a university store. However, this past week, I started my new job in an office cubicle (I’ll spare you the gritty details). This has been, needless to say, a big and scary transition for me coming from a place where I’ve never had a job with my own chair, let alone a desk! It’s still on a temporary basis, but it has the possibility of leading to a full-time position. However, one of the things that haven’t changed is something I’d like to talk about this week. It’s about making writing a habit.
I try to make it a point to write every day. Even if I only write a couple hundred words, I always make it a point to write something before I call it a night. Usually, this means waking up fairly early in order write before work. I wake up at 5:30, go through my morning routine and prepare a lunch. I’ll then spend whatever time I have left on my writing (usually about an hour or so I can dedicate to it). Unsurprisingly, this is usually the best part of my morning.
I have a system. After my lunch is packed, I brew a cup of tea, sit at my kitchen table and write with some music on in the background. It’s a simple set up, but the morning time can be some of my most productive time in the day. When I have to leave, I’m usually considering the next scene on my bus ride to work and consider problems and alternative solutions on my lunch break.
Making your writing time a habit (a ritual even) is important. On a subconscious level, doing the same thing each day sets your brain in the right place when that time rolls around again. On the days that I don’t have to go to work, I’m most prepared to write first thing in the morning. I’ve also started the habit of carrying a small notebook with me for when I think of those problems/solutions on the bus (as well as the occasional one-liner).
One of the most popular lies we tell ourselves is “I don’t have time for XYZ.” And in fairness, we don’t always have time for the XYZ in our lives. But if it really matters to you, sometimes the only thing you can do is become a morning person, grit your teeth and do it until it becomes a habit. Because I’ve found that these start as habits until they become a joy.
And when you get passed the grumbling and moaning of 5:30AM, mornings can be quite pleasant with a cup of tea and time to focus on your art.
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