Section 1.1: Habit #1 - Embrace Long Walks

Orson Scott Card, the acclaimed fiction author, advised, “Take care of your body. Writing is a sedentary business; it’s easy for many of us to become lethargic.” He recommended dedicating an hour to walking prior to writing, stating, “Though you may write less during that time, you might find your writing improves.” This approach is not unique to Card; many notable writers, including Charles Dickens and Ernest Hemingway, also valued walking. Hemingway noted, “It was easier to think if I was walking and observing life around me.”

Research supports this habit, revealing that a one-hour walk in nature can significantly alleviate stress, allowing for a clearer mind, which in turn fosters creativity.

Section 1.2: Habit #2 - Capture Ideas on the Go

“Don’t worry, I’ll remember,” is a phrase often uttered by those who inevitably forget their ideas. Failing to jot down thoughts can undermine your creative potential, leading your mind to cease generating new concepts. Esteemed writers treat every idea like treasure, as David Allen, author of “Getting Things Done,” famously said, “Your mind is for having ideas, not holding them.”

Nicolas Cole encourages writers to create a system for capturing ideas, whether through a smartphone or a dedicated app. The key is to have a reliable method to document your thoughts as they arise.

Section 1.3: Habit #3 - Establish a Writing Schedule

Nicolas Cole asserts, “If you only write when you feel inspired, you’ve already lost.” The unpredictability of sporadic writing leads to inconsistency, which can hinder your growth as a writer. After struggling with this myself, I set specific writing hours and within months, my audience grew significantly.

By dedicating time to writing, you create a routine that minimizes interruptions and maximizes productivity.

Section 1.4: Habit #4 - Eliminate Distractions

Maya Angelou famously rented a hotel room and stripped it of furniture to avoid distractions. While you may not need to go to such extremes, it illustrates the lengths successful writers will go to maintain focus. In today’s world, distractions are abundant, particularly from devices we carry. Acknowledging this, many writers employ strict measures to keep their attention on their work.

Section 1.5: Habit #5 - Actively Seek Feedback

James Altucher, a prolific author, often repurposed successful blog posts into books. This practice highlights the importance of feedback in refining your craft. Understanding what resonates with your audience can dramatically influence your writing. Personally, I learned the value of feedback when several readers pointed out my use of British slang as a distraction, prompting me to adapt my style.

Consistently seeking constructive criticism allows you to enhance your writing and better serve your audience.

Final Thoughts

Exceptional writing doesn’t occur by chance. It is the outcome of intentional habits that pave the way for creativity. The following practices can elevate your writing journey:

• Long walks
• Capturing ideas everywhere
• Maintaining a dedicated writing schedule
• Relentlessly blocking distractions
• Actively seeking feedback

By integrating these habits into your routine, you’ll be well on your way to identifying yourself as a “successful” writer.

Thanks for reading!

By the way, I firmly believe thriving in modern business will require a Social CEO — it’s only a matter of time before it becomes a requirement for the post.

Learn how to build your brand and discover what to share and when. Become an opportunity magnet.

Click here to access a free email course explaining how to start.