Make Sure Your Writing Mornings Have A Happy Ending
*Collaborative post
Waking up early to get more writing does is one of those creative writing hacks we’ve all heard about. This is a miracle cure that ensures even busy full-times can become writers. Or, at least, that’s what you’ve been led to believe.
Somehow, though, setting your alarm for early writing sessions hasn’t worked for you so far. Most mornings, you struggle to reach 100 words, and even those aren’t exactly best-seller material.
We get it. Writing in the mornings is tough! It takes both dedication and know-how to get anything creative on the page at that time of day. Of course, the benefits of doing this speak for themselves, so you certainly shouldn’t give up. But, what can you do to make sure you’re writing something worthwhile?
Have a space separate from the family
Whether you live with your kids or just your partner, the chances are that mornings are pretty manic. Most households are a flurry of rushed activity while everyone gets ready. Far from the peaceful image of writing mornings, working at the kitchen table could soon see you reaching breaking point before you write a word. The rush will distract you and you can guarantee the kids will keep butting in. There’s no way you’re going to create the next winner of the Booker prize this way. Instead, carve out a separate space. Set up a desk in the spare bedroom, or a corner of the living room. Whatever you do, don’t make the mistake of working at the kitchen table.
Find ways to wake yourself up
Many writers have their best ideas when they’re half asleep, but trying to write at a time like this is pretty impossible. If you’re going to get your creative juices flowing, then you’re going to need to find ways to wake yourself up sharpish even at five in the morning. A quick shower is an excellent way to do this because it really shakes you awake and refreshes you. Coffee is another morning writer staple. Invest in some speciality coffee that you keep especially for this purpose to really get your brain in the zone. Even just a refreshing breakfast like a slice of grapefruit is sure to wash away those cobwebs and let creativity loose.
Always know what you’re writing
It’s always a good idea to know what you’re writing when you sit down but never is this more the case than with morning sessions. When you’re already tired and pushed for time, failure to plan could see you wasting your efforts to get going bright and early. Instead, you’ll probably spend an hour or more staring blankly at the screen. Make sure it doesn’t happen by finishing each morning session with a plan for next time. Knowing what scene/edits you’ll be working on can help you jump straight in without that ‘what next’ struggle.
You should soon find that each of these pointers could see you doubling your productivity no matter what time of the morning you write!
