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Write Every Day

By Jeffrey James Higgins

One factor differentiates writers who succeed from those who don’t. They write. Developing a writing practice is crucial to producing good writing. Aspiring writers often tell me they plan to write “when” which means they will probably never begin or if they do they won’t finish.

There are 24 hours in a day and if you can’t find at least 30 minutes to write then writing isn’t a priority for you. Writing one page (250 words) per day equals a first draft in one year. Find time early in the morning during your lunch hour or late at night. Carry a notebook with you write on your phone or dictate in free moments. Every word counts and something is better than nothing.

Writing every day allows your story to live in your subconscious. You’ll wake up with answers to plot problems and think of cool ideas when you’re in the shower. Writing sporadically requires time to reengage with your characters slowing the process.

The equivalent of Malcolm Gladwell’s 10000 hours to achieve mastery in any subject equates to roughly one million words. The more you write the better you’ll get assuming you have focused practice.

Study the craft and business of writing by listening to podcasts reading books and taking classes but none of that is a substitute for writing. No more excuses. Start today.

Click here to read all of Jeff’s tips!