Getting in the zone to write can feel like a big challenge. It requires a careful balance of both creativity and productivity.
And if you’re trying to write to deadline, this could end up being stressful.
Or, perhaps, impossible.
10 Tips to Help You Get in the Zone to Write
Getting into the zone to write is less about magic and more about finding the right routine to switch your writing brain on. Butt in seat, get to work kind of thing.
As you gain more experience creating the zone rather than waiting for inspiration to strike, you’ll develop a bank of strategies you can rely on.
To help get you started getting in the zone to write, here are some tips.
Figure out the best writing routine
Bad news first: There’s no ideal time of day to write.
Certain people are more productive in the mornings, while others prefer to get their heads down in the evenings.
I’m NOT a morning person but I figured out that’s when I’m the most productive. So guess what? I get up early and I write.
The important thing is to find what works best for you. This is really important as there will always be something other to do than write.
And once you find your ideal routine, stick to it.
Think about what’s inspired you in the past
If you’re struggling to get into the zone, think back to what’s helped in the past.
Recall a time when you managed to be productive and did great work. What was your environment like? What time of day was it? How did you mentally prepare ahead of time?
Here are some tips to get inspired, and you might find something familiar on the list.
Outline your goals
As with any project, the best way to be productive is to break it down into smaller tasks.
Set time limits for each task and reward yourself when you achieve them. The SMART goals method is useful. It helps to outline attainable goals and set your own deadlines.
Optimize your workstation
It’s hard to be productive if you’re not comfortable. And setting up an ergonomic workstation is also vital to your health. You need desk furniture that’s supportive or you could end up with poor posture or back problems. Adjust your chair and sit with correct posture. Also, make sure you have sufficient lighting and that your monitor and keyboard are at the correct distance.
Once you analyze your workstation you may want to consider ordering new equipment. While it’s fine to work in bed or on the couch from time to time, having an ergonomic setup will serve you and your writing in the long run.
Take care of your eyesight
Staring at a screen all day isn’t good for your eyes. You know this.
If you feel your eyes are strained, consider getting an eye test. There are special glasses you can wear just for looking at screens.
Also make a point to take regular screen breaks and look somewhere else, even if it’s just for a few minutes.
Read
If you still can’t find motivation, why not read something by your favourite writers? Not only does reading entertain and help you get out of your head, it may give you the inspiration you need.
At the very least, reading will remind you why you decided to start writing in the first place.
Get ideas from other writers
Networking with other writers can also help you get into the zone for writing. Chatting and working through your writing tips and strategies can help you as much as it does other writers.
This is also a good way to deal with insecurity as a writer too. It’s comforting to know that other people are going through the same struggles from time to time.
Try relaxation techniques
If stress is the problem, consider trying relaxation techniques. These may include meditation, yoga, massage or even going for a walk.
It’s more difficult to get into the zone when you’re feeling anxious, and panicking about work can often be counter-productive.
Find a relaxation activity that works for you. You don’t necessarily need to do this before you start writing, but at some point in the day to let your body wind down.
Take a break
Don’t work yourself too hard and remember taking writing breaks is important. The danger of working for too long on the same piece is that you might lose your objectivity.
Taking regular breaks allows you to clear your mind and return to work with a new perspective. It’s a good idea to try to disconnect completely and do something else. Go for a walk or run errands.
When you’re ready to work again you’ll find it’s easier to get in the zone to write.
Don’t force it
If nothing seems to work and you can’t get in the zone right now then don’t force it. It’s important to be in the right frame of mind otherwise you might find that you don’t produce your best work.
If you’re working to a deadline then take a big break and come back to it. Everyone needs a different optimum level of pressure to work efficiently. You might find inspiration comes later and there’s no point wasting time if you’re not getting much done.
Getting in the zone to write can be challenging, but all writers eventually find their own way. When you find yours, great things will happen. It’ll only inspire you more. It’s important to find the environment and routine that makes you comfortable. Share your experiences with other writers and help each other find motivation.
One more thing. You may be interested in my free resource library. This is where I keep my files, downloads, ebooks, worksheets and whatever else I manage to create. I love sharing what I learn and want to keep adding to this library so it becomes a wealth of helpful goodness.
This is a free resource but I do require a password to access the library itself. You can get access by popping your email address into the form below.