NicoleToday, I’m going to share two small but powerful shifts to help you build sustainable writing habits that last.
We often start the year with big writing goals, only to lose momentum a few weeks in.
Why?
Because creative success isn’t about setting overambitious goals—it’s about building consistent, sustainable habits that support your writing every day.
In my latest podcast episode, I reflect on a winter walk through my messy allotment and how it revealed 2 key lessons for writers. These simple but profound lessons are directly tied to the habits that will help you finish your most important writing projects this year.
Why a ‘Write Habit’ Matters
Without the right writing habits, even the best plans fall apart. But when you commit to small, consistent actions, you create momentum, reduce overwhelm, and set yourself up for creative breakthroughs.
Lesson #1: Focus on Small, Measurable Progress
Last year, I felt overwhelmed by my overgrown allotment. It was awful. But once I caught my breath, I realised I can’t tackle the whole plot at once. So, I focused on clearing just one square meter at a time.
This small, consistent effort taught me the power of breaking big goals into manageable steps. The same applies to writing: focus on small progress, not perfection.
Write Habit Tip: Choose one small task from your writing project today. Whether it’s drafting a paragraph or outlining a scene, take one clear step and celebrate it.
Lesson #2: Work at Your Own Pace, Not Someone Else’s
On my nature walk, I noticed how perfect some neighboring allotments looked, and I started comparing mine to theirs. Ever compared yourself to a colleague or famous writer? You know the feeling…
But their pace and journey have nothing to do with mine. The same goes for your writing. Your rhythm, your wins, and your progress are unique to you.
Write Habit Tip:Review your writing schedule. Are you trying to mimic someone else’s pace? For example, are you forcing yourself to wake up at 5 a.m. because a famous writer swears by it?
Adjust your plan to fit your energy, commitments, and goals. Sustainable habits come from honouring your unique process—that’s something I tell my clients almost every week when we tailor their writing systems.
The Bigger Picture: Why Habits Drive Success
These small shifts—focusing on measurable progress and honouring your pace—are just two foundations of sustainable writing habits. Habits like these are what carry you to the finish line of your article or book.
This isn’t just helpful—it’s urgent. Without strong habits, your goals will stay stuck as unfinished projects. And another year will slip by without meaningful progress.
If you’re ready to break that cycle, my 90-Day Writing Accelerator is designed to help you build the habits you need to finish a major project in just 3 months.
It’s not just about getting words on the page (although that’s part of it!); it’s about creating a system that makes writing feel natural, intentional, and exciting.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Apply for the 90-Day Writing Accelerator (Feb 10-May 9):
Join a supportive, live-coached program where you’ll build the habits you need to finish a big writing project and set yourself up for long-term success.
👉 Apply now for the Early Bird discount (expires January 24)
Let’s make 2025 the year you write with confidence, clarity, and joy—one habit at a time.
Your coach,
Nicole
