Karen Brown Tyson

Tag: #writingroutine

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
How to Boost Your Attitude to Write Every Day

Updated October 2021

If you’re looking to boost your attitude so you can write every day, then you’ve come to the right place.

The life of a writer can be challenging. Whether you work as a full- or part-time writer, it’s sometimes hard to muster up the courage, strength, and discipline to write every day.

And if all of that is not enough, most writers deal with invisible obstacles like doubt, fear, or negative thoughts.

If this is you, I know how you feel. But these obstacles, especially negative thoughts, are such a waste of time and energy. And let’s be honest, ain’t nobody got time for that.

I adopted the thing as part of my daily writing routine to boost my attitude to write every day: focus on the big picture.

I changed my focus from negative self-talk to the big picture goals I outlined for myself as a writer to boost my attitude. First, I revisit my vision board to see what I outlined for the year. Then, I focus on new ideas that help me write the story I want to tell.

So what steps do I take to focus so I can boost my attitude? In this post, I outline seven steps I take to boost my attitude for writing.

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.

Here are 7 tips on how to boost your attitude to write every day

Tip #1 Sleep

I realize for some people, getting a good night’s sleep is easier said than done. But, for me, all I needed was to make a few adjustments in my bedtime routine.

First, I try to go to bed at the same time every night, Sunday through Thursday (I stay up a little later on Fridays).

Second, I downloaded Calm, a relaxation app, which offers soothing music and bedtime stories to help me sleep.

Finally, I bought the Moonbow Bedphones, wireless sleep headphones that allow me to lay on my side without feeling the pain of an earbud in my ear.

Moonbow Bedphones

Tip #2 – Eating

Another crucial area that offers me an attitude adjustment is what I eat. Since adopting a Pescatarian diet six years ago, I feel much better. In addition, eating more fruits and vegetables has helped a lot.

But, full confession, I’m in love with sugar. So I decided to watch Dr. Mark Hyman, who offers excellent advice in his books, Food: What the Heck Should I Eat? and Food: What the Heck Should I Cook?

As a result, reducing my sugar intake gives me more energy throughout the day to get more writing done.

Tip #3 – Physical activity

Even if I only have 30 minutes, I like to include a workout as part of my morning routine.  Research shows exercise improves body image, self-esteem, and mental health. So after being inside writing for a long time, I go for a walk. The walk gives me a boost of energy and helps me reflect on my day or stir up ideas about my latest projects.

Tip #4 – Keep an idea notebook

Since I come up with ideas all day, I love keeping an idea notebook. It’s an excellent way for me to get my thoughts out of my head and on paper. I used to write my ideas everywhere – Post-it Notes, sheets of paper, and the back of napkins. Using a notebook helps me organize my thoughts. Any notebook will do the trick. This Bright Ideas Journal is full of color, but Kraft Paper Notebooks work just as well.

Tip #5 – Connect with other creatives

In addition to client meetings and coaching sessions, I love meeting with other creatives. The life of the solopreneur can be lonely. Meeting with other creatives – either in person or online – inspires me and helps me return to my writing projects with fresh ideas. A few weeks ago, I joined ProBlogger’s FREE 7-Day Content Sprint Course.  It was great meeting Problogger Darren Rouse and other creatives each night for seven days. Not only was Darren gracious enough to share his knowledge about writing blog posts, but it was great to see comments from other bloggers. I came away from those sessions inspired and ready to write new content.

Tip #6 – Make time for play dates

Throughout my career in public relations and corporate communications, there have always been deadlines. Some days were more demanding than others. The same is still true now that I run my own business. I learned the hard way that all work and no play make me unfocused and uncreative. Sometimes giving my writing a boost means going for a bike ride or playing a game with family and friends.

Tip #7 – Unplug by not doing any writing

Sometimes the best thing I can do for my writing is to take a break from writing. On the days that I unplug, I don’t write or work. My laptop is off, and I move work out of my mind. The break allows me to rest and return to my writing refreshed.

For some, writing every day comes easily. But for me, I can remember days of not being in the mood to write.

In those moments, I readjust my mindset to focus on the big picture. I quickly ask myself, ‘Why am I writing? What’s the result of my work as a writer?’

Does it take effort? Yes. But it is so worth it.

How do you boost your attitude to write? Let me know in the comments.

If you found this post helpful, please share it with others. Thanks!

October 7, 2021
3 Helpful Strategies on How to Deal with Writer’s Block
Your deadline is approaching, but you are out of ideas. You are staring at a blank page, and you can’t seem to write another word. You’re trying to start or finish a chapter in your book, but the words are not flowing. More than likely, it’s writer’s block.

Defined as a brain state or a psychological inhibition that stops your creative flow and hinders your writing process, the subject of writer’s block has been widely discussed forever. While there are no direct studies on writer’s block, it can be associated with the brain sections that help in language development, brainstorming, and critical thinking.

According to an article in Seattle Central College, writer’s block is actually ‘creative block’—a biological inhibition that stops the brain from making connections and writing creatively.

But here’s the thing, writer’s block is nothing new. Nor is it impossible to overcome. There are millions of creative works in the world to prove writer’s block can be defeated. As a writer who has faced writer’s block more than a few times, I want to share the 3 easy strategies I use to deal with writer’s block. Feel free to share what works for you in the comment section.

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.

Understanding Writer’s Block

In his book titled, The Daily Writer: 366 Meditations to Cultivate a Productive and Meaningful Writer’s Life, Fred White outlines five different types of writer’s block, which include:
1. Procedural: This type of block causes the writer to say, “What do I do now? Where do I go from here?” For fiction writing, this may mean not knowing how a character should move forward. Nonfiction writers (see also ‘What Is Narrative Nonfiction?‘) working on a memoir may get stuck trying to figure out the level of detail they want to include.
2. Creativity: When it seems like you have run out of ideas, you may be facing a creativity block. All types of writers are subject to face this block.
3. Psychological: All of the times when negative self-talk, like you’re not good enough to be a writer, crept into your writing session.
4. Distraction: Allowing normal tasks — phone calls, laundry, email, housekeeping — to get in the way of writing.
5. Procrastination: Suddenly, everything is more important than writing, and you promise yourself you will write again once everything is under control.
If you have experienced one or more of the blocks from this list, keep reading to find out the 3 easy go-to strategies I use to deal with writer’s block

3 Helpful Strategies on How to Deal with Writer’s Block

#1 – Analyze Your Creative Climate

Whether helping clients or students solve problems, I encourage everyone to analyze their situation. Finding a solution to deal with writer’s block requires the same level of attention.

First, think back to when you had a great writing session where you accomplished your goal and your creative flow was high. What were the conditions like?
- What time of day were you writing?
- How long were you working?
- What was your environment like?
- Were you on an internal or external deadline?
- What else do you remember?
Next, think about a time when you experienced a block while writing. What was your creative climate like during that time?
- What interrupted your writing?
- How long did it take to start writing again?
- Did you have a goal for your writing session?
- Did you stop writing to do research?
- What else do you remember?
Compare both lists. Can you identify the type of writer’s block you deal with most often? For me, the distraction block is my biggest problem. Therefore, I try to reduce distractions before I start writing, like moving my phone across the room. Come up with a list of solutions for each type of writer’s block you deal with so you can go back to the time when you’re most productive during your writing session.

“What I try to do is write. I may write for two weeks ‘the cat sat on the mat, that is that, not a rat.’ And it might be just the most boring and awful stuff. But I try. When I’m writing, I write. And then it’s as if the muse is convinced that I’m serious and says, ‘Okay. Okay. I’ll come.’”

Maya Angelou

#2 – Create a When-Then Plan

If you deal with the procrastination block, create a when-then plan to get back to writing. A when-then plan helps you associate your desire to write with an action. Here are a few examples:
- When you write for 30 minutes, then you will go for a walk.
- When you finish the laundry, then you will write for 15 minutes.
- When you get up at 5 a.m., then you will spend 45 minutes writing a blog post.
Before you start writing, be specific about what you want to accomplish with each writing session. Use regular tasks that are already part of your normal day as your trigger. However, if your ‘when’ doesn’t happen because something unexpected comes up, decide on the time and place to write the next day.

#3. Find Creativity through Non-Writing Activities

Many other creative activities can help you get your creative flow back. Try painting, crafting, cooking, or driving—anything that helps you feel relaxed and stay focused. Some people also like to listen to music to ease their anxiety and feel more energetic. Learn other ways to find creativity when you feel uninspired.

When you return to your writing session, allow the non-writing activity you experienced to influence your creativity. For example, to inspire my creativity, I like watching the shows like Chopped and Project Runway. Watching the contestants on both shows make something out of a few ingredients or materials is fascinating to me. Here are a few more tips on how to find inspiration.

“I don’t believe in writer’s block. Think about it—when you were blocked in college and had to write a paper, didn’t it always manage to fix itself the night before the paper was due? Writer’s block is having too much time on your hands. If you have a limited amount of time to write, you just sit down and do it. You might not write well every day, but you can always edit a bad page. You can’t edit a blank page.”

Jodi Picoult

In Summary

Another way to deal with writer’s block is to keep writing. Set small goals for yourself. For example, give yourself the target to write 50, 100, 300, or 500 words on a topic or just one page of the chapter. Once you get there, reward yourself. If you have time, push yourself a little more and keep writing. The more you write, the more motivated you will feel to complete your writing project. For more tips on how to beat writer’s block, check out these 11 awesome tips.
February 9, 2021
How to Reach Your Goals with a Powerful Writing Routine

“You don’t start out writing good stuff. You start out writing crap and thinking it’s good stuff, and then gradually, you get better at it.

That’s why I say one of the most valuable traits is persistence.”

― Octavia E. Butler

Whether you are a part-time writer or a full-time author, it can be challenging to find time to write.

You need more than a pen and paper to write.

You need motivation, ideas, determination, and most importantly, you need time.

It is not easy to create a consistent and productive writing routine. It takes discipline and persistence. This article will share actionable steps on how to design a powerful writing routine.

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.

But first, let’s take a look at:

5 Reasons Why You Need a Writing Routine

As a professional communicator and a part-time writer, I have learned the benefits of a writing routine. A writing habit will help you to:

Identify as a writer

Becoming a writer doesn’t come with a title. When you dedicate time to your writing through a regular routine, you feel like a writer. Once my students establish a regular writing routine, I encourage them to embrace their identity as a writer.

Stop waiting for motivation.

By creating a schedule where you write at a specific time or in a particular place, you can stop waiting for inspiration. Instead, a writing routine is designed to send a signal to your brain that it’s time to write. The more you write, the more you feel motivated.

Avoid procrastinating

Without a scheduled writing time, you will likely push off writing until another time. However, if you schedule your writing sessions, you will feel more compelled to write, even if you only have 10, 15, or 30 minutes.

Improve your writing skills

When you write regularly, your writing skills will improve, and you will become a better writer. When I was in graduate school, I had to write research papers weekly. Although I did not write every day, the practice helped me improve my writing over time.

Exercise your creative muscles

Last year, I read about James Altucher’s approach to capturing ideas. He writes ten ideas every day. Altucher believes if you make a list of ten ideas each day, you will become an idea machine. I love this idea, so as part of my writing routine, I take time to write ideas before I start writing.

5 Actionable Ways You Can Build a Writing Routine

Here are a few ways that will help you establish a writing routine that works for you.

1. Establish a Set Time and Space for Writing

Dedicate a specific time for each writing session. Choose a time that fits your work schedule and family commitments. Some people feel more creative in the mornings; others find it easier to focus at night. Whatever time you choose, make sure that you write at the same time each time you sit down to write.

Where you write has a significant impact on how you write. Therefore, dedicate a space for writing where you feel comfortable. Having a writing space will help you get into a writing mood and enhance focus.

Setting a time and space for writing is crucial for designing a powerful writing routine.

2. Determine your Writing Goals

The first step is to have clear goals of what you want to accomplish during your weekly, monthly, and yearly writing sessions.

Are you trying to write the first chapter of your book?

Are you trying to write a specific amount of pages or words?

Is this an editing session?

Write your one goal for each writing session and write down how you will define having achieved this goal. Setting a goal will help you focus on one thing at a time.

For example, you can set goals like:

I will write for at least 15 minutes.

I will write at least 500 words.

I will finish one chapter.

I will write at least one page.

I use small goals all the time, especially while writing my latest book. Having goals, no matter how small, will keep you motivated and productive during your writing session.

Also, you can include monthly and yearly goals as part of your writing routine. For example, as part of my monthly writing routine, I join other writers during online webinars or writing sprints.

3. Track Your Habits

When you record your scheduled routine for the day, it plays a vital role in bringing you even closer to your goals. Most successful writers use a calendar or journal to write their plans and their to-do lists for the day.

Keeping a journal will help you in tracking your writing habits and create a roadmap for your goals.

4. Identify your writing and non-writing tasks

As part of your writing session, divide your tasks into two groups — writing and non-writing. Writing tasks involve blog posts, articles, brochures, books, etc. Non-writing tasks are everything you must complete to support your writing tasks. For example, the research you need to write your book or blog post.

During your writing session, focus on one task at a time. Resist the temptation of working on both writing and non-writing tasks at the same time. For example, don’t research and write your book at the same time.

5. Join a Writer’s Community

In a regular office job, you meet your employers, your co-workers, and your friends. The human connection not only keeps you energetic but also makes you feel accountable.

As a writer, you can join communities where you can mingle with other writers. These meetings will bring more inspiration, more motivation, and more opportunities. You can join Facebook groups and paid communities for writers.

In Summary

Ready to use your new writing routine? Don’t wait for tomorrow. Start now!

It is easy for people to feel inspired by something, make plans to take action, and forget about them the next day. Your life is busy. Your days are packed with work and appointments. And, there are so many important things that you need to do first.

But, trust me, there is no better time to start than right now. Take your first step towards building a powerful writing routine today.

Looking for ideas? Find some here

February 4, 2021
How to Create a Productive Writing Routine

One of the biggest obstacles solopreneurs, freelance writers, bloggers, and entrepreneurs face is how to create a productive writing routine.

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. Not only do you have to run your business, but you need to find time to write your first book or your next book.

It’s easy to get overwhelmed and thrown off track.

But how we view and manage our time requires a shift in mindset and behaviors. If you currently have a writing routine that is not working, here are five steps on how to fix it immediately.

Do you wonder how some writers can write anywhere? When you travel with the right tools, you can get a lot done. Check out this list for ideas.

A cluttered writing space can slow down your productivity. Here are a few ideas on how to declutter and simplify your writing life.

The infographic below offers five tips on how to create a productive writing routine. Are there other things you can do to establish a productive writing routine? Absolutely. The infographic highlights five steps to get you started.

Feel free to share your ideas in the comments section.

December 26, 2019
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