There’s only one unalterable rule of writing: eventually, you have to write. Not think about, talk about, take a class about it, but actually type or handwrite words in sentences in a row.
A lot of writers struggle to make time to write, and even when we make time, it can be a chore to sit down and focus. This is especially true these days, when our brains are accustomed to multi-tasking via our mobile devices. Are you even living if you aren’t listening to music, texting a friend, and downloading apps while answering work email? We say nay.
In a post on DIY MFA, Angela Yeh offers her advice on overcoming distraction and getting your butt in your chair. “For as long as I can remember, I have struggled with focus,” Yeh says. “Whenever I sit down to do anything, read, write, or even watch TV, it isn’t long before I am up and doing something, anything, to keep moving.” When you need to level up your chill, Yeh recommends the following:
- Get excited about your writing. Write the kind of stories and the kind of genre that make you happy to write. You might realize these were the stories and genres that made you most excited to read when you were younger.
- Create a routine. Your brain loves a routine. Sit down to write at a consistent time, for a consistent duration, and your brain will recognize that’s it’s time to get creating. (ed. note: This works even better if you have a special chair or desk reserved for your writing, or if you dress more comfortably when you’re working. Food works, too. Every writer should have writing snacks.)
- Create a ritual. “My ritual involves closing the curtains, turning off the lights, listening to loud epic fantasy music, and lighting a candle,” Yeh says. “The music helps me focus—as someone who struggles with attention, the silence of an empty room can drive me bananas. I do these things every time to train my brain to drop into that flow quicker and longer. I’m using neuroscience to my advantage.”
- Be grateful. Gratitude is a beneficial emotion for life in general. Being grateful for your writing time and the chance to exercise your creativity can help you earn bonus muse points.
- Play. “The importance of play cannot be overstated,” Yeh says. “Play releases endorphins, improves brain function, and stimulates creativity.” For some of us, play means video games or outside sports, or time with kids or grandkids. For others, our writing time is our play, a chance to run through different worlds, meet people we love, and solve interesting puzzles. Whatever your play is, make some time for it.
