3 Ways to Become a More Consistent Writer

Every writer starts the same. They come up with a brilliant idea and they’re convinced it’s going to be the next New York’s Time bestseller. They’re passionate about it and immediately set out to write. They write and write and write and write. But then, two weeks later, they crash.

Suddenly they take a step back and see their amazing story as nothing but trash. They might even toss it into the garbage bin as well. They hit a loll. A month goes by, maybe even two or three, and they still haven’t written a thing. They begin to have thoughts such as “Maybe I wasn’t meant to be a writer after all”.

But then it happens! They have another idea! And once again they’re furiously writing away at this brand new, exciting idea and, once again, they’re convinced it’s going to be the best book ever written. But again, they crash and give up on this story as well.

Are you starting to see the pattern? Can you relate?

What writers fail to see when this cycle is repeating itself over and over again is that it doesn’t have anything to do with them as a writer, but all to do with your mode of consistency. Because that’s just the thing, they have no consistency. And consistency is a make it or break it deal for writers. Which is why I am going to share with you three ways that can help you become more consistent with your writing and therefore grow as a writer.

#1: Write Everyday

This is one of the most popular pieces of writing advice I hear but, contrary to what everybody says, I don’t believe that everyone should do it. However, when you are trying to build consistency I feel it is a key way to help you improve.

Think about it. When you’re relying on the adrenaline that a new story idea brings then you’re not building any sort of consistency but simply flying by the seat of your pants. It’s no wonder that you crash not long later.

Writing everyday will help you form a habit and teach you to not give up on a project. If you are truly motivated to give this a try then you will have to write something and therefore stick with it. I guarantee that this alone will transform you as a writer and I challenge you to give it a try. Set a goal for yourself even if it’s only for two months.

Don’t give up on your writing, and certainly don’t give up on yourself.

#2: Manage Your Time

Another great way to help build consistency is to better manage your time. What’s the number one excuse writers give? I don’t have time.

Maybe that’s true, maybe that’s not. Or maybe you’re simply not managing your time well enough. Tell me, how much time are you spending on your phone? On social media? Or even procrastinating? These are all time suckers and time wasters. Take a moment to add up all the time you spend on things such as these and let that sink in.

Yeah. It happens to the best of us. But that time can be spent writing!

I’m not always the best at it, but I find that whenever I work hard and manage my time then I have so much more time for writing. It can also help you be happier overall! Because I’m not saying that you can’t ever get on your phone or that you can’t ever check social media, but if you manage your time better than you can make time for that and have time for writing as well.

Give it a try, it’ll be worth it.

#3: Get an Accountability Partner

Getting an accountability partner was one of the best things to ever happen to me as a writer. Having someone always there for you to ask how your writing is, get on you for neglecting it, or even to give much needed encouragement is invaluable. When no one else knows what you’re hoping to achieve it’s no wonder that you don’t always feel inspired to finish. But having just one person to motivate you will do so much for you.

For example, when someone other than yourself knows that you’re hoping to write every day for the next two months, then someone else will now know when you fail. When it’s just you setting out to accomplish this on your own then it’s much easier to throw your hands in the air and give up a few days in. But having someone there for you to encourage, motivate, and inspire you may be just what you need to carry on.

This person can be anyone. Your best friend, your sister, even your mom! Anyone that is close to you and cares whether or not you accomplish or fail at what you’re trying to do. Maybe even your accountability wants to accomplish the same thing as you. If so, then you can set goals together and encourage each other along the way. That’s what I do with my accountability partner (who is also my best friend), we set crazy challenges and then cry, laugh, or celebrate along the way with each other. It makes the journey so much more enjoyable.

Conclusion

Building consistency is not an easy feat to accomplish as a writer, but once you have it, you will be much better off. Consistency is very much like forming a habit and once you’re in the habit of writing often you will see your writing flourish and grow. Maybe even day by day.

Writing is not some talent that can come within one day of doing it. It’s something that you have to work hard at if you ever want to be any good. But if you truly love it and are dedicated to not give up, then I have full confidence that you can succeed and will one day be writing a bestseller just like you always dreamed.

Now all you have to do is believe in yourself as well and get at it.

Your turn!

Have you built consistency within your writing life? Do you have a accountability partner? How do you stay consistent and focused on your writing?

Blessings, Allyson

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