My Writing Routine: Structure and Tools

Writing is both an art and a discipline. This is how I organize my writing day to stay productive and inspired.

Morning Mindset

My writing day typically begins around 10 o’clock. I’ve found that the mornings are the best times for my creative work. The home is quiet, my mind is fresh, and I can focus without distractions. To set a positive tone for the day, I start with a cup of hot coffee and hot tea and a few moments of mindfulness or reading a few pages of a favorite book. This helps me to clear my mind and get into a creative mindset.

Favorite Writing Spots 

I believe that where you write can significantly impact your productivity and creativity. I choose different writing spots depending on my mood and the type of work I’m doing. On days when I need to focus and be productive, I prefer my quiet and organized desk. However, when I’m seeking inspiration or I need a change of pace, I often retreat to a cozy corner of my home or a local coffee shop. The change of scenery helps me brainstorm new ideas and break up the monotony of daily writing.

Tools I Rely On

The right tools can influence the writing process. I use Microsoft Word as a simple and reliable word-processing software for the drafting stage. Once I’ve completed my first draft, I switch to Kindle Create to format my work for publication, or Canva if the book I am working on has graphics.

I use several editing apps to ensure my writing is polished and error-free. Grammarly and the Hemingway app are invaluable tools for identifying grammatical errors, improving sentence structure, and making my writing more concise. These apps help me refine my drafts before sharing them with others for feedback.

Finally, I use Notion to keep track of my writing schedule, organize my notes, and track the progress of my various projects. Additionally, I carry a physical notebook with me to jot down ideas and inspiration whenever they strike. This helps me capture momentary thoughts and ensure I don't miss any valuable creative sparks.

My Creative Process: From Ideas to Pages

Generating Ideas

My ideas often come from my personal experiences living with lupus, the books I read, the podcasts I listen to, and the conversations I have with others. For my non-fiction work, I focus on themes that have been particularly meaningful to me, such as overcoming challenges, finding strength during difficult times, and sharing hope with others. I have a running list of potential topics and stories to explore, constantly adding to it as new ideas occur.

Developing Content

Because my writing revolves around my personal experiences with lupus, the process is deeply personal and emotionally charged. To structure my work, I create a detailed outline organized around key themes that I want to share with readers. I break these down into smaller sections and set specific goals for each chapter, ensuring that they contribute to the overall message of the book.

Writing Process

Once I have a clear outline, I begin the writing process in phases. The first phase involves freewriting, where I let my ideas flow freely without worrying about structure or grammar. This allows me to capture my thoughts and emotions without reserve. In the second phase, I return to the manuscript to refine the structure and clean up the language. I make sure that each chapter contributes to the book’s overall message and that the writing is clear, concise, and engaging.

Staying Productive: My Favorite Strategies

Setting Goals

To stay productive, I break down my larger writing goals into smaller, more manageable daily and weekly tasks. This could be a specific word count, completing a particular section, or finishing a chapter. Having concrete goals gives me a clear sense of direction and helps me stay focused on my progress.

Using Writing Sprints

One of the most effective strategies for maintaining productivity is using writing sprints. I set a timer for 25-30 minutes and focus entirely on writing without any distractions. Once the timer goes off, I take a short break to rest and recharge. This technique helps me avoid burnout and maintain a steady momentum throughout my writing sessions.

Eliminating Distractions

To create a beneficial writing environment, I minimize distractions by turning off notifications on my devices, setting my phone to “Do Not Disturb”, and listening to instrumental music to help me stay focused. When I need deep concentration, I find that writing in shorter, focused bursts is more effective than trying to maintain a marathon writing session.

Staying Accountable

To stay motivated and accountable, I share my progress updates with friends or fellow writers. Having a sense of community around writing helps me stay inspired and motivated to continue working towards my goals. Additionally, knowing that others are aware of my progress can provide a sense of accountability and encourage me to stay on track.

Final Thoughts: Finding Joy in the Process

Writing is not just about creating a book. It represents a transformative journey that involves self-discovery, creativity, and perseverance. Whether I’m nestled in a cozy corner of my home or tackling a challenging chapter, I find satisfaction in knowing that each word I write brings me closer to sharing my story with others. I hope that by sharing my writing routine, tools, and creative process, I can inspire you on your own writing journey.

If you’re curious about my journey with lupus or want a glimpse into the result of my writing process, I invite you to explore Say Hello to My Friend Lupus. In this book, I share my experiences living with lupus, offer practical tips for managing the condition, and even include some easy, lupus-friendly recipes to make life a little simpler.

You can also join me on Threads, where I regularly share tips, motivational quotes, and inspiration focused on productivity, self-care, and the writing journey.