Ever wondered what a typical day looks like for a writer? Just like any other profession, it’s a mix of highs and lows. Some days the words flow effortlessly, while others leave you staring at a blank page.
I read once that many authors have morning rituals to start their day. Ernest Hemingway was known to get up super early and write while standing, while Maya Angelou preferred to work in hotel rooms surrounded by her own possessions. Regardless, these rituals in the morning are what sets the tone for a productive day. Here’s a peek at my part-time writing schedule.
My Morning Ritual:
I jump out of bed at 6:30 ready to face the day. Okay, so that’s not true. LOL! My alarm goes off at 6:30 but I snooze until 7. The next hour is filled with chaos, as I feed the dog and get my boys out the door. By 8 am, I’m ready to compose myself with a cup of coffee in silence. I take about 30 minutes to pray, do devotions, and sit with my hot drink.
At 8:30, I’m checking email and messages. The emails pile up! There is always something crazy in them. Sometimes PR is pitching ideas and asking for quotes. Most emails are offering to sell me something to make life easier. Some emails are good and some are bad! You take the good with the bad.
By 9 am I’m ready to walk the dog. We walk for at least 30 minutes and I listen to an audiobook to clear my head. When we return I pour another cup of coffee and head to my desk. This gives me 2 solid hours to do DEEP work. Whether I’m writing a blog, answering questions for interviewers, or working on my next project. This time is vital and I must do it, even on the days when the words don’t flow and even on the days when I’d rather lay on the couch and read because this is what sets the tone for my day and fuels me to keep writing.
Midday Break:
From 11-12, I take an hour for lunch. I sit and watch reality TV and EAT. I rest and relax. After lunch, I do a few quick chores around the house and settle in for another hour of work before leaving the house to pick up my son from school at 2 pm. The rest of the afternoon and evening up until my son’s bedtime is family time. Whether I’m playing video games with him, helping him with homework, cooking dinner, or driving him to a sporting event, I’m present and focused on my family.
Nighttime Reflection: Once my son goes to bed, I often sneak back into my office if I have words in my head I need to write down, and then I read before bed and call it a night. I’m blessed to wake up and get to do it all over again the next day.
While most days aren’t glamorous I’m blessed to be living my dream.