We’re not writing machines. We don’t just plop ourselves down at our desks, click a button on our hands, and knock out a genius manuscript. We need to set the stage for focused, inspired writing sessions by getting into the writing zone, the sacred space where creativity flows, words come alive, and productivity soars. Here are 13 ways to get into the zone, optimize your pre-writing, routine and enhance your writing experience.
1) Choose Your Writing Attire:
Choose a comfortable, confidence-boosting outfit that reflects the writer in you. Yoga pants? Cozy sweater? Favorite t-shirt?
2) Boost with a Beverage:
Pour a favorite beverage-tea? coffee? And don’t forget your water bottle. Have fun using mugs, cups, and bottles with inspirational sayings. Cheers!
3) Fuel Your Creativity:
Have healthy snacks on hand to keep up your energy. Carrots? cheese? nuts? berries?
4) Clear Your Writing Space:
Clear off your writing desk to create a clean, uncluttered environment. Simply move any clutter or papers elsewhere (the floor? another room?) Out of sight, out of mind.
5) Inspire with Scents:
Light a candle that gives off scents to inspire creativity (jasmine, frankincense, eucalyptus).
6) Minimize Distractions:
Turn off or silence your phone. Even better, put it in another room so you can minimize distractions.
7) Create Your Writing Playlist:
Upload a playlist that sparks your creativity or decide to work in silence or with white noise.
8) Streamline Your Computer:
Close all unnecessary tabs and apps on your computer except for your writing document. Consider shutting down your email temporarily.
9) Get Your Body Ready:
Stretch, roll your shoulders back, and sit tall and confident.
10) Take a Meditative Pause:
Close your eyes and breathe deeply. Do a writer’s meditation, closing your eyes, focusing on gratitude for the ability to write and share your gifts with the world.
11) Recite Your Mantra:
Recite your writing mantra or affirmation aloud, then open your eyes, smile, and begin your writing session with enthusiasm and focus.
12) Review Previous Work:
Before diving into new content, skim what your rote in the previous writing session. You’ll refresh your memory and create a smooth transition into your writing flow.
13) Set Your Writing Intention and Goal:
What specific task are you working on? Brainstorming ideas? Drafting a new chapter? Revising a section? Determine if your goal is to write for a specific length of time or write a certain number of words?
Embrace these rituals and make them your own. Experiment with different combinations to find what works best for you. Remember, writing is a journey. Sometimes you’ll find it easy, and sometimes you’ll want to rip out your hair. But setting up your space and your goals can help you enjoy the ride.
I am Gail Kerzner, your “savvy red pen.” As a writing coach and editor, I can help you develop your pre-writing routine, encourage you to stay focused on your goals, and guide you to create the words that become your testament to your passion, wisdom, and the unique story only you can tell. Sign up for your free consultation today!