The Art Of Consistency: A Writer’s Guide To Unleashing Creative Potential

In this blog post I am going to discuss the importance of writing consistently NOT routinely. We aren’t talking about writing the same amount of words, at the same time, in the same space every single day. Hat’s off to those who can though right! What I’m going to talk about are the reasons why it benefits your creativity to incorporate a healthy writing habit within your life. Whether that looks like jotting down 50 words a day, 100 words the next, and 2,000 the next, it is what works for you. 

Authors take themselves on a journey that is as rewarding as it is challenging. One crucial aspect that sets apart a subpar writer to a successful one is their commitment to consistency. Let’s take a look at five reasons why this is so:

1. Building Momentum 

Every word you write, every paragraph you draft, they all contribute to a growing creative bubble that is slowly building momentum as you propel forward in your journey. As said above, how you decide to schedule your time, whether it be a daily word count, a set writing schedule, or just putting aside an hour a day to put pen to paper, it is what works for you and what best suits your lifestyle. Just be aware that maintaining regularity creates an unstoppable momentum that carries you through the highs and lows of your novel writing. Ideas come and go, tweaks are forgotten, plot points or twists can be lost. But not if you continue building the momentum while it’s creative imagery is fresh in your mind. 

1. Skill Refinement

Writing is a world known craft that best evolves when it is practised. Using consistency in your journey allows you to adequately refine your skill over time. As you dive into the creative process that flows from your mind, you will start to naturally fine-tune your storytelling ability, sentence structure, overall narrative, and what I like to call the three act structure (if you are unaware of this, please email, I would be happy to share). Whilst refining your skill can seem tedious, or slow burning, as your abilities gradually start to transform, you will notice the points at where you went from a novice to a seasoned writer. To some, there is no greater reward than the progress they make, whether they choose to publish or not. 

1. Connecting With Readers

How many of you have come across readers that demand more? You should, that’s what you want from your readers after all. One thing your reader base will appreciate most (other than amazing storytelling) is reliability. Quality novels, short stories, etc. that are delivered consistently creates a bond between you, the author, and your audience. Captivating their attention transforms into a lasting readership that is crucial to sustaining your writing career. Reader’s that eagerly anticipate each of your new releases are integral. When readers know what to expect, they become more invested in you as an author. Consistency. It all boils down to consistency being key. 

1. Cultivating Creativity 

There is not one writer in the world who isn’t aware of the myth of the tortured artist waiting for inspiration to strike. (If you were not aware, thank me later, you are now.) Said myth is, quite utterly, a load of rubbish. You shouldn’t starve your creative mind by waiting. Creativity is often a result of disciplined effort. To have a consistent writing habit is where your creativity will flourish. Some days it may take you on a complete new venture, it may take your WIP and shake it up, regardless of what direction your creativity goes in, it’s alive. Engaging with your craft on a more consistent basis ensures a higher likelihood that you will stumble on unique concepts, a different or fresh perspective, and of course, innovative narratives. Don’t starve your creativity, feed it, nurture it, love it. 

1. Boosting Productivity

How does writing consistently, or daily, boost productivity I hear you ask? Well, let’s look at just one way to schedule writing into your day. By setting aside set hours, or a time in which you think works better for you, you are optimising your creative output. You may spend an hour plotting, you may complete an entire chapter in one sitting, or you may even write your blurb. However you spend that specified time, you are producing impactful content, meaningful content. Boosting productivity isn’t only measured in how many words you have written, or how far into a story you have progressed, it’s about making the most of the time you have given yourself for your craft. 

In the grand scheme of things, I think I have provided fair and informative reasons as to why consistency is the key to unleashing your creative potential. Your writing journey is not a sprint, it’s a marathon. And unlike joggers, your marathon may look completely different to another writer’s. Do what is best for you, but if you embrace consistency within your craft, you will not be disappointed in the outcome and the results you see as your writing transforms. 

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