Every morning, as the world still slumbers, I find myself in the quiet cocoon of my home, embracing the serenity of dawn. At 5 AM sharp, I rise from bed, the star-lit sky blocked by marine fog so only darkness is visible outside my windows. The aroma of freshly brewing coffee permeates the air, filling my senses with a comforting warmth--and motivating me to actually get moving. In this tranquil moment, my day as a writer begins.
As I pour a mug, my son footsteps pad downstairs, his young spirit echoing the energy of the new day. Parenthood calls, and tending to him is the first part of my routine (aside from coffee). Within these shared moments, I find inspiration. There’s an undeniable magic in witnessing the world through his innocent eyes, a magic that often fuels my creative endeavors.
Once my son is settled with a game or book (an in some cases, his tablet), I delve into my writing sanctuary. It's not merely a routine; it's a ritual, a sacred communion with the muse. Setting aside this precious time each day has been paramount to my growth as a writer. Consistency, I've learned, is the cornerstone upon which every writer's success story is built. (Keep in mind that it takes more than consistency, BUT it's a step in the right direction.)
My book coach, Colleen Mitchell, taught me that in the realm of creativity, habits are invaluable. They provide structure, transforming the chaotic dance of ideas into tangible words on a page. Many writers wait for motivation to strike, but that's only a short-term solution. Habits are long term. Through daily writing, I've discovered the power of momentum. Each word written becomes a stepping stone toward my goals, a testament to the progress achievable through steadfast dedication.
Yet, even in discipline, I deserve a small reward, right? Every writer should have a little treat waiting for them once they reach their small goals: a cup of tea, a walk in the park, or ten minutes of guilt-free scrolling time on social media. After my morning writing session, I indulge in one M&M for ever 100 words I write. Typically, I write between 500 to 1000 words a day, unless I'm participating in a writing challenge. For larger accomplishments, I head to my favorite coffee shop for an iced Americano. In these tiny moments of indulgence, I celebrate not just the words written but the passion that fuels them.
In the world of writing, routines and rewards are components of success. They provide structure, motivation, and the balance needed to keep the creative fires burning. Whether you wake up at dawn, sip coffee, tend to loved ones, or indulge in a sweet treat, the key is to find what works for you and embrace it. Writing is a journey, and the rituals we create along the way are the guideposts that lead us to our destination.
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