Creating A Writing Routine
If you're serious about becoming a screenwriter, it might seem obvious that you need to write. It might also seem obvious that you don’t just need to write - you need to write on a regular basis. How else are words going to show up on a page?
Magic? Manifestation? Divine Intervention?
(If you can manifest words on a page without actually writing anything, we should definitely grab coffee - my treat)
However, many writers squirm when faced with fact that in order to write…. you actually have to write. And since they’re writers, they’re usually extremely good at coming up with real-sounding excuses.
“I don’t have enough time to write!”
“I’m not motivated!”
“I need inspiration!”
Honestly, I get it. I was trapped in the same cycle for YEARS.
I would daydream, talk about my ideas and even spend the odd afternoon blissfully perched in a sun-drenched coffee-shop window, pecking away on my laptop.
But… I never got anywhere. Nothing was ever finished or polished enough to share. It was so frustrating to know I could be a good writer but…have nothing to show for it.
I would talk about writing, but deep down I felt like a fraud.
My breakthrough came when I committed to writing regularly. Over the last two years, I wrote a 180-page YA novel rough-draft, a full feature film (on commission), a polished half-hour pilot, oodles of social media posts, made significant progress on a new personal feature, and was tapped to write an indie proof-of-concept short.
I don’t have any more inspiration than a few years ago. My motivation comes and goes. I didn’t travel to a mysterious island to be blessed by a shaman or win a bet down south in a shockingly impromptu fiddling contest. The only thing that changed was committing to a writing routine.
So, how can you establish a routine that works for you? Let’s break it down:
1. Identify Your Writing Boundaries:
Minimum Time: On your worst days, when everything sucks and you’re wondering if writing is even worth it - what is a realistic amount of time you could still show up and write? This becomes your non-negotiable minimum.
Maximum Time: On your best days, when life is beautiful and creativity flows effortlessly - what is the realistic amount of time you would expect to show up and write? This is your maximum.
Once you have your times,
use this formula:
I will write for at least [Minimum Time] and no more than [Maximum Time] on my writing days.
2. Schedule Your Writing Time
Put it in the calendar. Choose days and times that align with your natural schedule. If this is your first time trying to write regularly I recommend starting with 3 days a week and encourage you to choose a time earlier in your day rather than later.
BE WARNED:
I see a lot of people mess up in this stage!
Many writers add an extra layer of difficulty by choosing unreasonable times. Instead of choosing a time that suits how they already live their lives, they choose a time based on what they believe their life should look like. Be honest with yourself!!! If you currently wake up at 9 don’t schedule your writing time for 7.
Remember: we’re trying to build something that’s easy for you to commit to.
3. Define Your Writing Space:
Where are you going to write?
Identify a conducive environment that supports your writing process. Ensure it’s a space free from distractions and interruptions.
Now, lets combine these elements into a comprehensive plan:
I, [Your Name], commit to writing for at least [Minimum Time] and no more than [Maximum Time] on [Specific Days] at [Chosen Time], in my designated writing space at [Location].
For instance: “I, Kate, commit to writing for at least 10 minutes and no more than 2 hours, starting at 10AM at my home desk.”
And there you have it—a clear, achievable writing routine. I hope you find this useful and give this formula a try for yourself!
Happy writing,
Kate
P.S. Want bonus points? Make a document with your filled out formula and add room for 3 signatures. Print it off and bring it to two people in your life who support your writing. Tell them about your commitment and have them sign the paper as witnesses. If you can - tape this document up in your writing space.
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