NicoleToday, I’m going to show you how to write calmly in December and finish the year feeling accomplished and energised.
Every December, writers fall into the same trap: trying to finish too many projects in too little time. It’s tempting to think that hustle will get you there—but in truth, it drains your energy, dulls your creativity, and leaves you burned out just in time for the holidays.
What if you looked at December differently?
This month isn’t just an ending; it’s a bridge to the next creative chapter. If you approach it with calm intention, December can become your most transformative month—not because you rushed to finish everything, but because you chose to slow down and focus on what matters.
Let me show you why stepping back can actually move your writing forward.
Calm Fuels Creativity
Most writers think productivity is about sheer effort or discipline, but creativity thrives in moments of calm and clarity. Neuroscience shows us that the brain’s best ideas often arise when we’re not “trying”—when we’re resting, reflecting, or simply letting ourselves be.
When you choose calm, you’re not giving up on your goals—you’re giving yourself the space to approach them with clarity and confidence. I’ve seen it after coaching hundreds of burned-out, stressed out writer and authors: A writer operating from a calm mindset produces work that’s thoughtful and fulfilling, rather than rushed and scattered.
Here’s the mindset shift that has changed my life (and that of my clients) each December:
Instead of trying to finish everything this month, focus on finishing one thing well and reflecting on the rest. This shift isn’t just about avoiding burnout (which I’ve had); it’s about honouring your creative process.
When you stop trying to do it all, you can devote more attention to what matters—your craft, your voice, and your ability to write with authenticity and care.
Here’s how to apply this new mindset in December.
Step 1: Choose One Thing
- Write down your list of projects, then circle the ONE that feels most meaningful or time-sensitive.
- Let the rest wait. Trust me, your Future Self will thank you for not burning yourself out.
Step 2: Schedule Reflection Time
- Block out an hour to reflect on your writing year.
- Ask yourself: What worked well? What didn’t? What changes would you like to make in your writing life?
Step 3: Embrace Rest
- Rest is not laziness. It’s part of the process.
- Build rest into your December schedule—whether that’s an afternoon off, a journaling and reflection session, or sitting in a cafe with a book.
After having had burnout, I realised how important this mindset shift is at this time of year.
When you approach December with calm and intention, you’re not just creating higher quality pieces—you’re creating a better relationship with writing itself.
This December, let’s rewrite your writing ‘hustle’ story. Instead of rushing to finish everything, finish ONE thing with care. Reflect on your creative journey. Allow yourself to rest.
You might just discover that calm is the secret ingredient to your best writing yet.
Let this December become the month where you choose a different path—the one that nurtures your creativity and prepares you for a fresh, inspired start in 2025.
Here are 5 ways I can help you step into your best writing year yet:
REFLECT ON 2024:
My Writing Year in Review: Cozy up on the sofa and complete this beautiful reflection journal – following my 4-step coaching process to feel recap the year and create a strong vision for 2025. Get instant access here.
PLAN YOUR 2025:
The Write Habit Planner: Create a Roadmap for your 2025 annual, quarterly and monthly writing goals – and follow through for 52 weeks! Order it on Amazon in your country (e.g. UK | USA | Germany).
KICKSTART YOUR 2025 HABIT:
7-Day Write Habit Booster [Jan 6-12, 2025]: Kickstart your writing habit and dive back into your projects after the holidays. Includes 21-page workbook, 7 video trainings, and a live community and co-writing! Enrolment opens soon!
WRITE TO FINISH:
The 90-Day Writing Accelerator [End of Feb 2025]: My flagship live coaching program to finish a crucial writing project within 3 months and establish a long-term writing habit. Join the waitlist
