A list of effective and proven strategies to help you reach your writing goals:
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As a writer, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and demotivated, especially during the long and challenging process of completing a book. However, with the right strategies in place, it’s possible to stay motivated and push through even when the going gets tough.
In this post, we’ll explore some effective strategies for staying motivated throughout the writing process.
Set Realistic Goals
One of the main reasons writers get demotivated is because they set unrealistic goals for themselves. It’s important to set goals that are challenging but achievable. Research has shown that setting specific, measurable, and achievable goals can increase motivation and performance (Locke & Latham, 2002).
For example, instead of setting a goal to write 10,000 words in a day, set a goal to write for two hours in the morning and two hours in the evening. This way, you have a clear plan, and you’re less likely to feel overwhelmed or disappointed if you don’t meet your goal.
Create a Writing Routine
Establishing a writing routine can help you stay motivated and make writing a habit. Research has shown that habits are formed through consistent repetition of behavior (Lally, 2010).
For example, if you decide to write for two hours every morning, stick to that routine, even if you don’t feel like it. Over time, your brain will associate that time of day with writing, and it will become easier to get into the writing mindset.
Reward Yourself
Rewarding yourself for reaching writing milestones can help you stay motivated and track your progress. Research has shown that rewards can increase motivation and improve performance (Deci et al., 1999).
For example, you could treat yourself to a favorite snack or activity after reaching a word count milestone. This will give you something to look forward to and help you stay motivated.
Take Breaks
It’s important to take regular breaks throughout the writing process to avoid burnout and stay motivated. Research has shown that taking breaks can improve productivity and creativity (Smith et al., 2001).
For example, you could take a short walk or do some stretching exercises between writing sessions. This will help refresh your mind and give you a burst of energy to keep going.
Surround Yourself with Supportive People
Surrounding yourself with supportive people who believe in your writing can help you stay motivated and positive. Research has shown that social support can increase motivation and help individuals achieve their goals (Sheldon & Elliot, 1999).
For example, you could join a writing group or connect with other writers online. This will give you a supportive community to turn to when you need encouragement or advice.
Conclusion:
Staying motivated throughout the writing process can be challenging, but with the right strategies in place, it’s possible to push through and achieve your writing goals. Setting realistic goals, establishing a writing routine, rewarding yourself, taking breaks, and surrounding yourself with supportive people are all effective ways to stay motivated and productive. Remember, writing is a journey, and it’s important to enjoy the process as much as the finished product.
References:
Deci, E. L., Koestner, R., & Ryan, R. M. (1999). A meta-analytic review of experiments examining the effects of extrinsic rewards on intrinsic motivation. Psychological bulletin, 125(6), 627.
Lally, P., van Jaarsveld, C. H., Potts, H. W., & Wardle, J. (2010). How habits are formed: Modelling habit formation in the real world. European journal of social psychology, 40(6), 998-1009.
Locke, E. A., & Latham, G. P. (2002). Building a practically useful theory of goal setting and task motivation: A 35-year odyssey. American psychologist, 57(9), 705.
Sheldon, K. M., & Elliot, A. J. (1999). Goal striving, need satisfaction, and longitudinal well-being: The self-concordance model. Journal of personality and social psychology, 76(3), 482.
Smith, M. E., McEvoy, L. K., & Gevins, A. (2001). The impact of moderate sleep loss on neurophysiologic signals during working-memory task performance. Sleep, 24(3), 343-360.
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