#24: Write 1 Article Everyday-This is How
The art of creating online and work full-time
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440 articles.
That’s how many articles I’ve written on Medium in the last 603 days.
It may be a large number, but to me, it still feels like just starting out.
If you also want to write online, this number can be overwhelming, especially if you have a demanding job and not enough time left to write.
I totally relate and understand that writing consistently can be a challenge. Life is busy, motivation ebbs and flows, and writer’s block is just sitting around every corner.
So, how can you overcome these hurdles and make writing a daily habit? Here’s a practical guide on how to write one article every day.
It really helped me come up with fresh ideas and write consistently.
1. Set Realistic Goals:
Start with a goal that’s achievable. Don’t commit to writing a novel each day; you’ll burn out. Instead, aim for a shorter, manageable piece of content.
A 500 to 1000-word article is a good starting point. Adjust based on your skills and time constraints.
My goals are something like this:
Write 100 words every day.
Edit and proofread previously written articles.
Publish 3 articles per week.
2. Establish a Writing Schedule:
Consistency is key. Set aside a specific time each day for writing. It might be early morning, during lunch, or before bed.
It’s important to make it a routine and incorporate it into your daily life. Stick to your schedule as closely as possible.
My schedule is something like this (most days):
6-7 PM: Write two outlines.
7–8 PM: Edit and proofread 2 articles.
3. Find Your Writing Space:
Identify a quiet and comfortable place to write. It could be a cozy corner in your home, a coffee shop, or a park bench.
Having a dedicated space can put you in the right frame of mind for writing.
I have dedicated a little corner in my living space where I usually write. It gives me a dedicated place just to sit down and write.
And yeah, I keep my phone in my bedroom on silent while I write.
That leads me to my next point.
4. Banish Distractions:
When it’s writing time, it’s writing time.
Turn off your phone or at least put it on silent.
Close unnecessary browser tabs and apps. Minimize anything that might interrupt your flow.
I play a song on loop or listen to instrumental music while writing.
5. Plan and Outline:
Before you start writing, spend a few minutes planning your article. Jot down key points and structure.
Outlining can significantly boost your writing speed and help you stay on topic.
I keep a spreadsheet with 30-word outlines for fresh ideas to pick and write when I am running low on new ideas.
6. Write Freely, Edit Later:
This I learned after writing for 1 year.
Don’t worry about perfection during your initial draft.
Just write.
Let the words flow without constantly editing.
Editing can come later when you revise and refine your work.
Now, I don’t edit the same article on the same day.
I leave it to breathe for 1–2 days before picking it up again to edit and proofread before getting it ready to publish.
7. Embrace Writing Prompts:
If you’re ever stuck for ideas, use writing prompts.
There are numerous books and websites filled with prompts that can spark your creativity and inspire articles on various topics.
I follow a few awesome creators online to come up with new ways of writing and learn from other creators.
It helps me to say things in my own voice and sparks inspiration for my creativity.
8. Join a Writing Group or Community:
Connecting with fellow writers can provide motivation and accountability.
Share your goals with a writing group or use online platforms to publish your work.
Interaction with others can be an excellent motivator.
Leaving meaningful comments and doing cold outreach can help immensely.
9. Keep Learning:
To write consistently, you need to stay motivated. Part of this motivation comes from learning and improving.
Read widely and invest time in expanding your knowledge.
This will give you fresh ideas and keep your passion alive.
I aim to read one or two books every month and take notes.
10. Reward Yourself:
Finally, don’t forget to celebrate your achievements.
Completing an article every day is no small feat.
Reward yourself with a small treat, a relaxing moment, or simply the satisfaction of knowing you’ve accomplished your goal.
To wrap it up,
Writing daily is a powerful discipline.
It not only enhances your writing skills but also helps you organize your thoughts, express ideas clearly, and boost your creativity.
Over time, your body and mind will adjust to this habit, making it easier to churn out articles daily.
It’s not about the quantity; it’s about the habit.
So, pick up that pen or hit those keys, and start writing your way to a brighter future, one article at a time.
That’s it for today.
Love reading it? Leave your comments below.
Talk soon.
Love
Ankita
