5 ways to get writing this summer

It’s going to be a long, hot summer so how exactly are you going to keep yourself writing? A Queensland deck can be the perfect place for crafting words and setting your imagination free. But it’s not always enough. At the Writers Centre we’re all about planning to make your writing happen and increasing your word count. So here are 5 ways to get writing this summer.

1.      Find somewhere comfortable to write. If it’s hot, take your work to a library. They’re not what they used to be. You can even book your own room to work in. At the state library there are loads of spaces to write and many of them have a great view of the river. Local libraries have quiet spaces to write in and cafes nearby to reward yourself when you’re done. 

2.      Join a group. Short term or long term, it doesn’t matter. If you’ve got time off in January turn up for your local Writing Friday group. It might be the start of a beautiful writing habit. There’s also the Rabbit Hole here at the Writers Centre if a quick start is what you need. And if Rabbit Holes and Writing Fridays become a thing you love, you could look into starting one at your own library. Now there’s a 2020 New Year resolution.

3.      Let’s face it though, resolutions are more suggestions than instructions. If you want to start putting words on the page you need to get a plan. The Writers’ Plan is on again in January, so come and enjoy the air-conditioning and put your 2020 plan in place. This year Writers’ Plan, next year Printable, Publishable and maybe even Adaptable!

4.      What’s your daily small addiction? Is it a gaming app, a walk around the neighbourhood, or a wine on the deck? Don’t give it up! You’ve got a great habit going. But piggy-back a new summer writing habit to it by adding ten minutes of writing time before, during or after it. You’ll be surprised how quickly those small amounts of time add up to words on the page. Even if they’re not the greatest words, remember the old saying that you can’t edit an empty page. 

5.      Hold your own writing Friday any day and any time you have off. 25mins of writing followed by a five-minute break. Whether you do it for a half hour, a half day or your whole holiday, your word count will have grown.

 These are our five ways to get writing this summer. We’re sure you’ll have many more. So, if you’ve got a tip, share it with us on facebook. Your tip could be just the thing to set someone else’s writing habit free. You can help your own summer of writing along by signing up for the Rabbit Hole or Writing Friday here, or get yourself a plan with The Writers’ Plan. Let’s make it a summer of words.