Sometimes writing feels about as magical as doing your own tax return. It’s a challenge to stare at a blank document, waiting for inspiration to strike like lightning, and instead, you get crickets. But you know what? That’s completely normal.
Here’s the truth not everyone wants to hear: Writing is work. Actual, honest-to-goodness work. To enjoy the spoils of being a successful author, it helps to embrace this reality sooner than later.
I crank out a daily newsletter and to date have written sixty-seven books. Although I love being a professional writer, I’ve erased the idea that being a professional writer means lounging in coffee shops, wearing cool glasses, and having profound thoughts.
Just me? OK.
The reality involves blinking cursors, deadlines, and editorial calendars. But that’s exactly what makes a pro a pro.
Plumbers don’t wait for plumbing inspiration to fix a leak. Chefs don’t need to feel passionate about Tuesday’s soup special. They show up, apply their skills, and get the job done. That’s exactly what we must do as writers.
The magic isn’t in feeling inspired twenty-four seven; it’s in knowing how to produce quality work even when your muse has put their phone on Do Not Disturb. Focus on developing systems, routines, and habits that help you show up at the page day after day. My morning routine includes having a pot of tea ready to drink when I wake up, then doing some mindset work, plus twenty minutes of yoga, before sitting down for an hour of writing. I also have an evening routine to set out my clothes, prep the teapot, and make sure I’m ready for the next day.
Once you embrace the fact that writing is work, a weight lifts off your shoulders. In fact, the business of writing, including writing, admin work, and marketing, just to name three, must be viewed as necessary. The sooner you embrace your tasks and learn to love them, the better off you’ll be. You stop waiting for perfect conditions. You’ll stop feeling guilty about not feeling inspired. Instead, you’ll sit down, crack your knuckles, and get to it.
Next time writing feels like work, smile, and say, “Well, duh!” Because that’s exactly what it is—and that’s exactly what makes you a professional. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got some work to do. Happy writing!
Honoree Corder
