There is something about a routine that allows me to write.
It’s strange; normally I like to claim I avoid a routine or being “normal” as much as possible.
But there is something about a routine that helps. Last year I had a period of time when my day job was truly casual, which meant that I was working anything from 0-5 days per week. That meant I never knew which days I would work or when I could plan to do things. It made me reactionary.
How Routine Helps Me Write
I know I list myself as a “wanna be corporate escapee” and that is true (the timeline is what I am undecided on), but I also like parts of what the routine bring to my life and how they settle my brain.
If I know where I’m going and what I will be doing that day, then I switch off from all “how to get there” and “what to do when I’m there” tasks. It allows my mind to wander. I can flick through the Internet and read blog posts. I get inspiration for blog posts. I write a lot of posts on my phone (including this one). I listen to podcast that spur me to write posts about them. Routine seems to work for me, as much as I don’t want to admit it sometimes.
Does routine help you to be able to write?
I’ve had so much trouble finding a routine that works for me over the last couple of months. I’m hoping now that I know I have kid-free days that I can really use them productively.
Oh that would be a big change! Good luck finding a new routine that works for you.
Routines and I have a very shaky relationship. I’m glad yours is working.
I kind of wish it wasn’t, but it seems to be!
I sometimes feel like I get bogged down in routine, but without it chaos ensues!
I know, I kind of resent that it’s working for me, frankly!
I like my life to be organised and if I’m organised, I feel a little freedom to do those extra joys like write.
That’s true, when you know what’s going on there is that sense of free time.
I like routine in all aspects of my life, so I can see how it would help you to write. I always wake at the same time, go to bed at the same time, shower at the same time. Sounds boring, but I like to know exactly what’s happening when and what’s happening next. I’m sure that must mean I’m a mental case but hey it works for me. I don’t like surprises or having last minute things thrown on me 🙂 #teamIBOT
I keep a sleeping schedule only because I know how much better I feel when I do! I don’t really like routine but also I can’t deny it’s working for me right now.
Building a routine is my main focus for February. Going pretty well so far. I am using batching/ time blocking and working towards cementing by March so no pressure in early days. Getting my exercise back on the agenda, writing in batches, learning / ecourses I bought and left on the shelf. I am a routine resister who also totally sees how it helps!!!
Feb is my “get ahead” month, so I can relate to a lot of that!
Oh god I wish it did, but I am totally an inspiration writer, and the frigging inspiration always arrives at the most inopportune times….
Haha that’s what I like about routine. I get more inspiration. And…uh… totally never use work’s post it notes to quickly scribble ideas to expand on later.
I always wanted more time to write and now having recently reduced my working hours, I wonder if the routine and pressure of previously having less spare time actually helped me to achieve more?!
I found that a lot when I was working part time. Initially it’s exciting to think you have a day or two to write but I find I get more done being a full time worker.
I think for me it is more predictability rather than routine that allows me to write. I feel safe when I know what is coming and so feel room to write.
I like that distinction!
I am not a fan of routine usually. Structures and routine make me want to cry. I feel hemmed in. I am getting better at it due to the kids but most of the time I want to go with the flow. But writing does require a set time otherwise you never get there.
I don’t like routine but it really has been working for me. I get more blogging done when I work full time compared to when I worked part time. Sad but true.
Routine most definitely helps in all aspects of my life, the problem for me is when that routine gets thrown out, then I really struggle to cope.
It’s so easy to let things slip when routines get thrown off, too.
I am terrible as a routine writer. I like to work on my writing in my head when the inspiration strikes, writing notes on anything and everything. Then when I get the chance when the kids are in bed I try to piece it all together.
I must admit, my current routine {or getting adjusted to one} is not helping me write. I guess even though I could use my travel time to blog or come up with posts/ideas, I am too busy reading. Consequently, all my recent posts have been book reviews!
I’m doing half the week in the office and half the week working on writing at home. It is working for me. I found when I had five days to write.. I didn’t write… I have cut off social media and do that on the bus, instead of losing hours to it.