Karen Brown Tyson

Tag: #karenbrowntysonwritesblog

How to Build a Powerful Journal Writing Habit
Updated August 2022 — In my previous blog posts, I focused on survival in, How to Survive Swimming in Strange Water and dreams in, Will You Mow the Lawn to Follow Your Dream. As I continue to focus on making new plans, I thought it would be good to focus on building a powerful journal writing habit. As someone who has experienced my fair share of change, journal writing is one of the critical tools I use to reflect on the present and plan for the future.

Journal about the life you want

I created the life I wanted by journaling.

Initially, I started by writing about my feelings. Then, writing about how my day went – the good, the bad, and the ugly — came easy. Soon I journaled about life’s disappointments. Looking back, I remember how I used journaling to make new plans, become a blogger, and start a business.

Journaling helped me capture my ideas and follow my dreams.

While sharing my journal writing experience with a young lady, I saw the disappointment in her eyes. Not because of my knowledge. She shared how she has never been able to make journal writing a regular part of her life.

But this wasn’t the first time I heard this. I hear countless stories from people about how they tried journaling but couldn’t keep it going for a few weeks.

Trust me, if I could build a journal writing habit, you can too.

So what steps do I take to keep my journal writing habit going? For today’s post, I outline five steps I used to build a powerful journal writing habit.

Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using the links.

Journal writing offers many benefits

No matter what happens, any time is an excellent time to build a journal writing habit. Some of the benefits of journal writing include:
- Writing therapy to deal with conflicts
- Stress reliever
- Help maintain and improve relationships
- Opportunity for reflection
- Records new ideas
- Gratitude
Studies show that journaling for 15 to 20 minutes daily, three to five days a week, can improve mental and physical health.

Five tips on how to build a journal writing habit

Although I understand the benefits of journal writing today, I didn’t always feel this way. My transformation involved lots of research. The tips I offer here highlight what I learned over time.

#1. Commit to making small changes

When I decided to get serious about my journal writing habit, I went to a habit expert: James Clear.

In his book Atomic Habits, Clear believes habits are the compound interest of self-improvement. Making a 1 percent improvement every day will add up in the end. My gains came over time with me, starting with writing one sentence in my journal. Over time, I wrote two sentences, then three, until I reached 15 minutes of writing.

“All big things come from small beginnings. The seed of every habit is a single, tiny decision.”
James Clear

Here’s a list of the other books I read to help me build my journal writing habit:
- One Small Step Can Change Your Life: The Kaizen Way by Robert Maurer
- Effortless Journaling: How to Start a Journal, Make It a Habit, and Find Endless Writing Topics (Develop Good Habits) by S.J. Scott (Author), Barrie Davenport (Author)
- Heal Your Self With Journaling Power by Mari L. McCarthy
#2. Use habit stacking

To build a journal writing habit, Clear recommends habit stacking, where you pair a current habit with a new habit. This technique allows you to match your new habit with your already-formed habits. For example, previously, I tried to tie my new habits with certain times of the day, like mornings.

But this approach allowed me to connect journal writing with a habit I was already doing, drinking tea while writing.

#3. Redesign your environment

Habit-building experts believe in the power of visual cues. The idea is to use cues to remember to perform a habit. I have to agree. I put my journal in the same bag as my laptop for my journal writing routine. When I sit down to write, I have all my tools – a journal, a writing notebook, my pens, and my laptop. Here are a few ideas to help you use cues:
- If you want to remember to write in your journal before you go to bed, put your journal next to your bed on the nightstand.
- When you want to write in your gratitude journal before going to the gym, put your journal in your bag.
- For your faith journaling habit, put your journal with your Study Bible and notebook.
#4. Take steps to make procrastination hard

Next, I confronted the unwanted behaviors that prevented me from sticking to my journal writing habit. First, I made a list of everything that prevented me from writing in my journal. Then, I selected one thing to change until I dealt with everything on the list. For example, checking social media in the morning prevented me from writing in my gratitude journal. So I put my smartphone in another room before I went to bed.

#5. Keep track of your progress

As your journal writing habit becomes more consistent, consider rewarding yourself. Positive reinforcement is critical in helping us automate our habits. Use a habit tracker to keep track of your progress.

Reward yourself whenever you complete a journal writing session or finish a week of journal writing.

It doesn’t have to be the same thing every time or anything costly. The point is to connect your accomplishment and the satisfaction that comes with it. Consider buying new supplies for your journal writing practice.

Keep your thoughts and dreams organized

“Keep a notebook. Travel with it, eat with it, sleep with it. Slap into it every stray thought that flutters up into your brain. Cheap paper is less perishable than gray matter, and lead pencil markings endure longer than memory.” Jack London

There are several different types of journals:
- Writing journal
- Dream journal
- Travel journal
- Idea journal
- Food journal
- Gratitude journal
Which journal is right for you? Here are a few of my favorite journals.

Whether you pick a regular notebook or a customized journal, the key is to get started building your journal writing habit.

Instead of wondering how long you can keep going this time, imagine yourself writing every day in the future.

You should feel proud of your decision to build a journal writing habit.

Your new journal writing habit might help you write the best chapter of your life.

If you need help, please get support. There are apps available, like the Bearable app, which allows you to log your moods, symptoms, medications, and much more.

Talk to a therapist. Connect with your support systems like your spouse, family members, or friends. Contact the National Alliance on Mental Illness Helpline at +1 (800) 950-6264.

ABOUT THIS POST: Thank you for reading this post. This information is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, medical treatment, medication, or therapy. Always seek your doctor’s advice or a qualified mental health provider with questions about mental health symptoms or medical conditions. Do not disregard professional psychological or medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice or treatment because of this post.
August 27, 2022
How to Fix Your Broken Writing Routine Immediately

Photo from Adobe Stock

Updated February 2022

Writing is hard. Despite your best efforts, you can never find enough time to get your content out the door. You dream about the day when you have a writing routine that helps you write and publish content consistently. If this sounds familiar, it may be time for you to fix your broken writing routine immediately.

But what if I told you I know how you feel? Despite writing content for work, I struggled to write every book I started between 1997 and 2017. Ten years! However, in six months, I became a published author by making a few changes in my writing routine.

I will share some tips to help you fix your writing routine. By adding these tips to your writing routine, you’ll find a flow and a process that works for you.

Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you purchase using the links.

(Photo: Shutterstock)

Take small steps to make big changes

Lean Six Sigma is an effective method used to solve problems. For example, I learned to use Lean Six Sigma tools while working as a communicator in manufacturing. Since it was clear my writing routine wasn’t working, I turned to Six Sigma to help me solve the problem.

I decided to use the Kaizen approach, which uses small steps to improve a process, a habit, or a product. While I believe in the DMAIC tool, where you create a plan to define, measure, analyze, improve and control a process, I decided to make my version called AIM, which allows me to analyze, improve and manage.

I recorded my answers on sticky notes, which I put on a large piece of paper taped to the wall. Once I reviewed my notes, I discovered a few reoccurring themes. Whether writing an article or a book, I realized that time and place were issues affecting my writing.

To improve, I turned to Dr. Robert Maurer’s book, One Small Step Can Change Your Life: The Kaizen Way. Dr. Maurer believes that by taking small steps to correct a problem, we only need to take small actions to achieve our goal.

I agree and embrace this approach. So, I asked myself, ‘What small steps will I take to fix my problems in managing when and where I write?’ The small steps I decide to take serve as actions to fix my problems.

Finally, to help me manage my writing routine, I kept my actions visible to stay focused.

Action step: Analyze your current writing routine to determine what works and what doesn’t work. Be honest with yourself. Determine what small actions you will take to improve.

Say goodbye to excuses

If you want to be a writer, you must constantly improve.
Jerry Jenkins

As a certified Six-Sigma communicator who tells clients, ‘Change does not have to be hard. You can do this,’ it was time to take my advice and change my thinking about writing.

With the research compiled to start my small actions list, I examined my unfinished writing projects to see any worth saving. A book I wanted to write was the only thing worth pursuing. But before I started researching, outlining, or writing, I had to deal with my problem with finding the right time and a place to write.

My list of reasons I could not write included too much work, too many projects; family obligations like taking my son to swim practice; carpool duty; and not writing in my favorite spot. The list was long.

But my reasons were excuses. It was as if I expected time and opportunity to tap me on the shoulder. But it never happened.

Not finding the right time and place to write were excuses I needed to kiss goodbye.

Action step: Make a list of why you struggle with your writing projects. Pick out the excuses. Determine what small actions you will take moving forward. Add the information to your vision board.

See yourself in the future

Change starts in one’s mind.

Real change requires both head and hands. In addition to doing things differently, we must also think differently. For me, this meant prioritizing my writing.

I practiced mind imagery to complete my book, where I saw myself writing and finishing my first book. Used by professional athletes like Tiger Woods and Michael Jordan, mind imagery allows you to see yourself completing a task like swinging a golf club, making the winning shot, or, in my case, picking up a copy of my first book.

How often did I do this? Every day until I finished the book.

I envisioned myself writing everywhere through imagery – in my kitchen, at airports, in train stations, in the carpool line (before school let out). And it worked – soon, I was able to write consistently.

If you want to see a change in your actions, you must first change your thinking.
Karen Brown Tyson

Action step: Identify one to two writing projects you want to complete. Use mind imagery to envision yourself finishing your next writing project.

Divide writing projects into manageable tasks

Armed with a new way of thinking, I ditched my old writer mindset.

I got rid of all romantic fantasies about locking myself in a room for an entire weekend and emerging with a 50,000-word manuscript ready for publication.

I am not saying writing 50,000 in two days can’t happen. I’m just saying I no longer think about writing a book this way.

Writing a book can be a big challenge. I realized writing a book overwhelmed me to the point I would give up.

I divided my book writing project into manageable tasks and created a writing map with my new mindset.

One thing to remember: the writing map is only a guide. I still created a detailed outline and marketing plan for my book.

Action step: Create a writing map. Identify the steps you will take to complete your writing assignment. Post your writing map where it is visible.

Find the right time and place to write

Have you ever struggled to find the right time and place to write? I did.

I had no problem writing content anywhere and everywhere for work. Writing presentations at the airport before a flight? No problem. Writing a press release before bed after an 18-hour day? No problem. Writing one chapter of my book during a five-day business trip? Not happening.

It was easy to put other people’s projects and priorities ahead of mine. I had to learn it was okay to take care of the world as long as I cared for myself.

Does this describe your writing life? If so, it’s time to get a grip on when and where you write.

Step 1 — Determine the most important things you must have each time you write. My must-have items are a laptop, notebook and pen, and headphones. If you need coffee, add it to your list.

Step 2 – Whether you write at home or want to write while traveling, figure out how you will manage potential distractions. For example, I write at the kitchen table when everyone is out of the house at home. However, when I write in public places like coffee shops, airports, or train stations, I use my headphones to minimize noise and distractions.

Step 3 — Identify your ideal time to write. Pick a time when you are most creative. For example, I like to write between 5 and 10 a.m. using my laptop. However, if I’m traveling and don’t have time to write until later afternoon, I use a notebook to capture my thoughts.

Imagine sitting down to write again, but you are eager to get to work this time.

Instead of dreading the sight of your computer, you look forward to writing.

You took the necessary steps to find time to write.

You’ve got your new writing routine. Now all you have to do is follow it.

The world is waiting to read your next masterpiece.

February 1, 2022
10 Habits You Need to Be a Super Productive Writer

Photo from Adobe Stock

Updated January 2022

Since starting my blog in 2018, I’ve adjusted my writing habits. Initially, my goal was to post articles consistently. But as my writing business started to grow, I had to change my writing habits again. So, in addition to being consistent in my writing, I worked on developing habits that helped me become a productive writer. Here are ten writing habits I use.

Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you purchase using the links.

1. Maintain a schedule

As a solopreneur, it always seems like I have a million things going on. In addition to managing my client’s work, I have to keep up with family events, doctor appointments, the house, and a blog. The only way I get through it all, including my writing, is to create a schedule. So I learned to develop a strict plan that’s flexible enough to move things around when necessary. Here’s more information on how to fit writing into your life.

How to Bend Time to Fit Writing into Your Busy Life

2. Keep track of time

One of the things I learned long before becoming a writer is that we all have the same 24 hours in a day. However, from my days of working in a corporate environment, I know that every day can, and probably will, be different. With this in mind, I knew there would be days when I wouldn’t be able to write because my son might be sick, or a friend would need my help, or my husband might want to drive to the beach for the day. So I learned to focus on the most important things on those days, and I plan my writing assignments accordingly.

3. Divide writing and non-writing tasks

As part of my daily writing schedule, I divide my writing tasks into writing and non-writing. My writing tasks include client assignments and writing blog posts, articles, and books. My non-writing tasks are those things I need to complete to support my writing tasks. Like the research, I need to do before I start writing.

During my writing sessions, I focus on one task at a time. I resist the temptation to multitask. I avoid working on writing and non-writing tasks simultaneously, like researching while writing my book.

4. Develop a writing routine with process goals

Once I started adding writing projects to my schedule, I learned to add process goals to my writing routine. Process goals are the specific physical or mental steps I need to complete my writing projects. For example, when writing my second book, Time to Reset, I mapped out the steps and processes I needed to take to finish the book. Likewise, when I start writing a book, I list every necessary step to complete the book. In addition, my writing routine is flexible and allows for non-writing days. Here’s more information on writing routines.

How to Reach Your Goals with a Powerful Writing Routine

5. Treat writing like a business

In my early blogging days, I wasn’t worried about making money. But once I got the hang of blogging, I started to treat it like a business. In addition to having a self-hosting service for my website, I dedicate time to plan out my posts, schedule them, and review my progress by using a blog editorial calendar.

6. Manage distractions

Productive writers protect their writing time by managing distractions. Since I work from home, I like to schedule my book writing time early in the morning. Throughout the day, I work on client assignments and attend meetings. To avoid interruptions like email and social media, I use content blocking apps like Rescue Time to eliminate alerts and pop-up messages while I write. In addition, I close all social media accounts and websites. If my husband and son are home, I let them know I’m writing and when I will be available.

7. Be prepared to write anywhere

Besides managing distractions, I learned how to transition to a creative mindset to write anywhere. Like a basketball player can compete in gyms worldwide, a productive writer learns to adapt to different environments such as coffee shops, cafes’ and commuter trains. But mental endurance takes time. Dean Hebert, M. Ed., a certified mental-game coach and a former marathoner, adds, “Mental skills, like physical strength, develop over time and with consistency.”

With this in mind, I learned to write in different locations other than my usual writing space at home. As a result, I have a backpack that includes everything I need to write anywhere – my laptop, notebook, pens, portable battery charger, Wi-Fi hotspot, hand sanitizer, and my favorite water bottle.

8. Use writing sprints

Whether I’m trying to increase my word count (see also ‘How to Write More: 10 Quick Ways to Boost Your Word Count‘) or get a piece of content finished, I use writing sprints. Writing sprints help me to write within a pre-defined length of time. I set a timer for 30, 45, or 60 minutes and write nonstop until the alarm rings. I don’t answer the phone, surf the web, answer email, or edit during a writing sprint. I write. I give myself 15-minute breaks, and I repeat as often as necessary until I accomplish my writing goal for the day.

9. Focus on the positive

I know what it feels like to question myself and wonder if writing is any good. So, to deal with potential negative thoughts, I write positive affirmations to myself as part of my journal writing practice. First, I jot down a positive statement about myself as a writer and why my work is important. Then, I post the message to see it during my writing session and throughout the day.

In addition, I like to listen to positive messages throughout each day. Inspirational podcasts, sermons, and other blog sites help me. Sometimes I write down inspiring remarks to my journal (see also our article on junk journals) or vision board.

10. Celebrate small wins

It’s important to celebrate small wins as a writer. For example, I like to celebrate whether I publish a blog post or finish writing a chapter in my book. Each win helps me keep moving forward to what else I can accomplish.

January 3, 2022
How to Rescue Your Writing Life This Year

UPDATED – A version of this article was posted for Jill Sheet’s blog https://jillsheets.blogspot.com/as part of my guest blog series.

This post includes both free and affiliate links.  As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

The year 2018 is gone.

On December 31, you said goodbye to another year filled with trials in your writing life. Goodbye to any failed attempts to write 1,000, 2,000, or 5,000 words per day.  So long to all those missed deadlines and unfinished writing projects. Buh-bye.

January 1 marked the start of a new year for your writing adventures.  This year, you are more determined and focused. No more distractions. You are looking forward to the road ahead.

But you wonder how you will stay on track.

You can rescue your writing life before making the same mistakes you made last year.  Here are ten tips to consider.

#1 Eliminate excuses

Make a list of the reasons you struggle to finish your writing projects. Determine which reasons are excuses. Determine the small steps you will take to eliminate every excuse. Post this list in a place where you can see it every time you write.

Don’t let excuses keep you from writing this year.

#2 Take A.I.M. at your writing habits

To understand what changes to make, you must take A.I. M. — analyze, improve and manage — at your writing habits. First, analyze your writing habits to understand at what point you lose interest or become discouraged in your writing projects. Next, identify the steps needed to improve your actions, mindset or behavior. If you get stuck, talk to a friend or another writer. Finally, determine how you will manage your new approach to writing.

#3 Unpack your schedule

What happens when you pack too many things in your suitcase? You must take something out. If you want to finish your writing projects, consider unpacking your daily schedule to make room. Identify the activities you can remove from your current schedule to make room for your writing time.

#4 Set goals

Starting a new writing project is exciting.  But just as excited as you are to write something new, be just as enthusiastic about finishing it. Create SMART writing goals – specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound — for each writing project.   From your start date until your projected deadline, decide how you will complete each project.

#5 Use a planner

To keep track of your time, use a planner (see also ‘How To Use A Planner?‘).  Use an online tool, like Trello or Asana to organize your writing projects, goals, and to-do list. You can also use a notebook, Word document or Excel spreadsheet. This year, I am using the non-dated planner and gratitude journal by Rebel.

#6 Create a writing routine

Build your writing muscles by creating a writing routine. Identify your ideal time to write. Pick a time when you are most creative or when you have the most energy. For me, I like to write Monday through Friday between 5 and 10 a.m. Your best time to write may be nights. The time of day doesn’t matter. Make time to write.

#7 Think and act like a freelance writer

Could this be the year you get paid to write?  If you want to get paid to write, even part-time, you must think and act like a freelance writer.  Look for opportunities where you can get paid to write blog articles, content, and ebooks. To find new opportunities to make money writing this year, I compiled a list of more than 100 resources. You can download a copy of the list here.

#8 Improve your craft

Look for opportunities to learn more about writing and the writing business.  Listen to podcasts, read books, join writing groups, or take courses to improve your writing.  When I wanted to learn more about guest blogging, I turned to Jon Morrow, CEO of Smart Blogger, who offers a course on Guest Blogging*.

Want to learn more about blogging? Jon Morrow offers a free webinar

#9 Work with other writers

Need help with your writing platform?  Pick a writer or blogger you admire. Consider offering them your specialized services, like proofreading or editing, in exchange for their knowledge about building a writing platform.

#10 Audit your progress

As you work to keep your writing life on track, it is important to audit your habits. Assess your progress to determine what’s working and what’s not working. Don’t be afraid to make adjustments throughout the year.

Look into the future.  See yourself finishing your writing projects, making connections with new writers and maybe getting paid to write.

Remember, it’s your responsibility to make time to write.  Let no one or anything stop you from accomplishing your goals as a writer.

Make this your year to shine – now all you have to do is write.

Karen Brown Tyson is the author of, Time to Refresh: A 21-Day Devotional to Renew Your Mind After Being Laid Off, Fired or Sidelined.

*Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. I recommend the program because I am a Guest Blogging student and have used the program myself. Please do not spend any money on Guest Blogging unless you feel you need it or that it will help you achieve your goals.

January 17, 2019
How to balance career, family and ministry

This article is posted on the Bookworm Blog as part of my guest blog series.

It’s a juggling act. You have so many relationships to manage, so many work projects, so many ministry activities, so many commitments. How are you supposed to balance career, family, and ministry?

One week, you think you have it all figured out, and the next, you’re confused again. It’s crazy! With so much going on all the time, you wonder if you will ever get a handle on everything.

I have news for you: You are not alone.

See the full article at the Bookworm Blog

November 29, 2018
How to use writing to improve your health

Want to improve your health? Research shows how writing is good for you.

The infographic below graphic by The Expert Editor is an excellent reminder of how we can use different forms of writing to heal and move forward.

Give it a try. It could be just the boost you need.

Ready for Change? If you want to change how you approach your writing routine, get a monthly planner (see also ‘How To Create A Planner To Sell?‘) to help you plan your writing life and stay on track. Get the monthly planner here!

Karen is a lean six sigma-driven communicator, writer, and entrepreneur with more than 25 years of experience in public relations, corporate and marketing communications. Karen used journaling to complete her book, Time to Refresh: A 21-Day Devotional to Renew Your Mind After Being Laid Off, Fired or Sidelined.

September 20, 2018