Let’s start with a little reassurance today:
If you’ve ever thought your writing habits were a bit… particular—needing complete silence, a specific playlist, your favorite mug in just the right spot, or a very specific time of day to write—you’re in good company.
Actually scratch that.
You’re in extremely normal company.
Because once you peek behind the curtain of how some of the most well-known authors in history actually worked, you may find yourself feeling like the most grounded, low-maintenance writer on the planet.
And honestly? That’s a comforting place to be.
The Truth About Writing Rituals
There’s something almost magical about the idea of a “writing ritual.” It sounds disciplined. Intentional. Maybe even a little glamorous.
But in reality, most writing habits aren’t about looking impressive—they’re about creating a reliable way to get into the right headspace.
Writing asks a lot of you. It asks for focus, vulnerability, imagination, and consistency… often all at the same time. So, it makes sense that writers develop little routines or environments that help signal to their brain:
“Okay, it’s time. Let’s do this.”
Sometimes those routines are simple.
And sometimes… they’re anything but.
Why Writers Get So Attached to Their Process
When something works—even a little—you tend to hold onto it.
That candle you light before writing? It becomes part of the ritual.
That quiet corner of the house? Suddenly it feels like the only place you can think clearly.
That playlist? It’s no longer optional—it’s essential.
And there’s nothing wrong with that.
In fact, those small habits can become powerful cues that help your brain transition into creative mode faster and more consistently.
The key isn’t whether your process looks “normal.”
The key is whether it helps you show up and actually write.
The Unexpected Side of Creativity
Here’s where things get interesting.
Some writers don’t just prefer certain conditions… they depend on them in ways that are, let’s say, memorable.
We’re talking about authors who completely removed distractions in dramatic ways, others who found inspiration in unusual environments, and some who built routines so specific they bordered on ritualistic performance.
And while it might be easy to laugh at some of these habits (and you absolutely will), there’s something deeper underneath all of them:
Each writer figured out what allowed them to focus, create, and stay committed to their work.
No matter how unconventional it looked from the outside.
What This Means for You
It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking there’s a “right” way to write.
That real writers wake up at a certain time.
Use a certain method.
Follow a certain structure.
But the truth is, writing is far more personal than that.
Your process doesn’t need to match anyone else’s. It doesn’t need to make sense to anyone else. And it definitely doesn’t need to be impressive.
It just needs to work.
If you write best in silence—great.
If you write best with background noise—also great.
If you need structure—lean into it.
If you need flexibility—honor that too.
There is no universal formula for creativity.
Action Steps: Create a Writing Process That Works For You
If you’ve been struggling to find your rhythm, this is a great time to experiment and refine your own process.
Here are few simple ways to start:
- Pay attention to when writing feels easiest: Is it early morning? Late at night? In short bursts or longer sessions? Notice the patterns.
- Build a simple pre-writing routine: This could be as small as making a cup of matcha, playing a specific song, or sitting in the same spot. Consistency matters more than complexity.
- Remove one distraction at a time: You don’t need to overhaul your entire environment—just make one small change that helps you focus better.
- Give yourself permission to adjust: What works now might not work later. Your process can evolve as your life and writing evolve.
- Focus on results, not appearances: If your system helps you write, it’s working. That’s the only metric that matters.
You’re Probably Doing Better Than You Think
It’s easy to second-guess yourself as a writer—not just your words, but your habits, your routine, your entire process.
But when you take a step back, you might realize something important:
You’re already building a system that works for you.
It may not be perfect. It may not be consistent yet. But it’s yours—and that’s what makes it powerful.
Want to Learn About Some Historical (or Hysterical) Writing Habits?
If you want a behind-the-scenes look at some truly unforgettable writing habits (and a few that will make you laugh out loud), I share some fascinating—and very human—examples in Episode 11 of From Writer to Author: The Podcast.
🎧 Listen here: S1 E11 – Wait… Authors Do WHAT?
Remember, your process doesn’t have to be perfect.
If just has to help you keep going.
