WRITING

How To Get In The Zone For Writing

What helps writers write? I asked. Writers answered.

Source: Photo of author. ©Rachael Ann Sand.

Silence, coffee, exercise, music… Do you have a writing routine or go-to method for getting the words flowing? I posted a poll in a group of writers asking how they get in the zone for writing. Perhaps the responses will inspire you to change-it-up if you’re struggling, or keep-it-up if you’ve been crushing it. Find what works to create your best work.

Poll responses in order of popularity:

• silence (most popular by far)
• all the coffee tied with music
• time in nature/a walk
• ambient sounds tied with pressure of deadlines
• vigorous exercise/cardio
• a cup of coffee tied with breaking news stories
• thinking about goals
• insomnia
• long journeys
• meditation

Writers shared a bit more about what works.

“Silence. And in a house with a preteen and a preschooler (both female) and a stay at home husband dying for adult conversation, quiet is my own personal unicorn.” by Jill Valentino.