Chapter 1: Understanding Writing Habits

Many aspiring writers are misled into thinking that maintaining a writing habit requires strict guidelines such as daily word counts and publishing schedules. However, this notion is misleading. You don’t necessarily need to aim for 500 words each day or allocate an hour for writing to cultivate a habit. The key is consistency.

A true writing habit is about regular practice rather than adhering to rigid metrics. While setting a target like 200-300 words can be beneficial, it’s not a strict requirement. Similarly, while designating a specific time and place for writing can enhance your routine, it doesn’t have to be an hour-long commitment. Publication is important, as it enables you to share your work and connect with readers, but it should be tailored to what feels manageable for you.

How It All Began for Me...

When I embarked on my writing journey, I made a commitment to write every morning at 5 a.m. in my living room. There was no obligation to publish daily or meet a word count. My focus was to write consistently at a designated time and place.

Initially, this was a challenge. I was accustomed to leisurely mornings spent reading or scrolling through my phone. There were days when I struggled to write even every other day.

Progress Over Time...

Fast forward to now—I write daily. Some days I might produce 250 words, while on others I might churn out 1,500. My writing space has shifted to my kitchen island, and I now begin my writing sessions at 6 a.m. Publishing has become a daily practice, one that has allowed me to hone my skills and produce 11 books, along with various digital products.

Advice for New Writers

When mentoring newcomers, I consistently advise them to commit to a specific time and place for writing, making it a daily practice. This commitment fosters a writing habit and allows for growth as a writer. By engaging in regular practice, you will develop your writing skills and discover your unique voice, audience, and brand over time.

Remember, the most important thing in the beginning is simply to keep writing.

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J.R. Heimbigner is a #1 Bestselling Author on Amazon, focusing on faith and the craft of writing. He has self-published 10 books and offers valuable resources, including guidance on transforming Medium stories into successful books.

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