We're a week and a half into 2024. How are you doing so far?

I was chatting with friends the other day about the elusive quest for life balance, especially when it comes to writing. As we delved into our routines and challenges, it become clear that none of us are very balanced.

As we embrace the beginning of another year, it's natural to set ambitious goals, only to find ourselves grappling with extreme guilt when life interrupts us. Whether it's caring for our families or pets, attending to job responsibilities, the unexpected crisis, or managing day-to-day tasks, these demands on our attention and are often non-negotiable.

And this doesn't even include the interruptions and distractions we create for ourselves!

In the midst of these obligations, it's often our writing that takes the backseat. We're quick to slam the breaks our writing before anything else, as if it's the most expendable part of our lives.

But remember, you're here reading this article, because your writing is more than just personal expression; it's the pathway to finishing a book that can one day be published and shared with the world.

Developing a writing habit doesn't happen overnight. And it doesn't have to be fancy. You just have to do it.

Start with manageable goals, like dedicating five minutes a day to your writing. Five minutes may sound ridiculous, but it's the very beginning. And if you're having a difficult time finding time to write in the day, it's a good beginning.

Carry something to write on with you all the time. Then those five minutes can happen anywhere at anytime. When you're doing the small increment every day for a week, double it. Another week, double it again. This approach turns those brief moments into valuable opportunities to practice your craft.

Some days will be less productive, and that's perfectly fine. Your writing journey is a personal one, not a race against time or others. Even if it's just a few words a day. Those words add up, and they matter – just like every step you take forward in this journey.

Above all, be kind to yourself. Life's hustle is challenging, but continuing to write is a testament to your resilience and dedication. You're doing an amazing job, and your commitment is commendable.

Let's aim for balance and flexibility in 2024, and most importantly, not slamming the breaks on our books.

Keep going.

Jocelyn

Hello!
My name is Jocelyn.

Story warrior, book lover, day dreamer, gardener, and creative. I help serious writers roll up their sleeves, get their novel ready for publishing, and reach readers. When I’m not elbow-deep in the story trenches, I’m outside world-building in my garden and battling weeds with my three criminal mastermind cats.