Write a novel

How to focus and get in the writing mood

Sometimes you just don't feel like writing. You should, you know it would be fun ... but somehow there is this feeling that just won't go away. You just don't feel like it. Period.

I've written about this feeling before and shown an effective way to get rid of it: "How to become happy and productive in 12 minutes" 

But the problem is: this is only half the truth. Because actually, after following the steps described there, you feel like being productive. But not necessarily to write.

In this article, I'll give you tips to help you create and write in an inspiring writing environment.

TIP 1: SILENCE

Find a quiet place to write. A place without distractions such as the TV, radio or loud noises such as street noise and construction work will help you concentrate.

If you live on a major road, close the window in the room so the noise is less loud.

My secret weapon is noise-cancelling headphones. They muffle ambient noise and you can suddenly work in a lot more places.

TIP 2: ATMOSPHERE

Make sure the furniture is comfortable, the lighting is easy on the eyes and the temperature is pleasant. This way you can concentrate better and don't have to worry about moving, running around, switching lights on and off and changing.

TIP 3: A TIDY DESK

I know it's not everyone's cup of tea, but a tidy desk helps you work better.

Pro tip: tidy up your desk or writing space in the evening - then you can get straight to work in the morning.

TIP 4: ROUTINE

Create a routine: A regular routine can help you focus on writing and boost your creativity.

OTHER HELPFUL ARTICLES:
- "Write a character-driven story YOU CAN‘T STOP READING" 
- "Tips for motivation to write a novel" 
- "3 Ways to Pants, Plan, and Plot Effectively" 

TIP 5: FLIGHT MODE

I know it's hard, but it helps if you switch on flight mode before writing. This way you avoid surfing the web and reading emails. There is a time for this, but it's definitely not when you're writing.

TIP 6: CREATE A WRITING PLAYLIST

I would argue that this is the best tip of all, at least if you can write with musim.

It's all about creating a playlist for each project, character or mood.

Choose songs that fit the mood, internal conflict or external problem of your project, for example. So, for example, if your novel has Disney vibes, you can use some Disney songs, but maybe also a melodrama song that just fits the inner conflict.

This helps you write in a deep POV and puts you right in the mood for a scene.

It's always good to have a playlist with instrumental music (instruments only) and one with vocals. For example, I can concentrate better with instrumental music, but there are situations where I prefer vocal music.

Pro tip: Put a song you really like at the top of your playlist. Sing it before you write. This releases happiness hormones that motivate you. At the same time, you associate writing with fun.


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Write on,
Evie