Tag: writing community

career, lifestyle

Finding Creative Inspiration in Domestic Life

Elizabeth Yuen

As a writer and a stay-at-home mom, my days are filled with everyday tasks—gardening, decorating, cooking, laundry—that may seem far removed from the creative process of storytelling. But over time, I’ve discovered that these activities are more than just chores; they’re powerful sources of inspiration, each offering a unique lens through which I can explore characters, settings, and stories. In fact, the rhythms of domestic life have become an integral part of my writing process.

Decorating and World-Building

Decorating my home is another activity that sparks my creativity. When I arrange furniture or add decorative touches, I’m not just designing a space; I’m considering the mood and energy it brings. Similarly, when I craft the settings in my stories, I think about how the environment reflects my characters’ inner worlds.

For instance, in my current work “The Midnight Masquerade,” the protagonist, Vespera Blackwood, attends a mysterious Halloween masquerade held at a gothic mansion. Drawing on my experiences decorating my own home, I picture the dark, ornate furniture, the flickering candlelight, and the deep, jewel-toned colors that saturate the space. Every detail—from the grand chandelier to the worn velvet curtains—serves as a reflection of the supernatural world Vespera finds herself in. Just as I carefully curate my living space to feel comfortable yet intriguing, I build my story’s settings with purpose, considering how they influence the characters’ emotions and decisions.

The Meditative Creativity of Laundry

Even something as mundane as doing laundry can spark creativity. The repetitive motion of folding clothes, the rhythmic hum of the washing machine—it all becomes a kind of meditation. In those quiet moments, my mind often drifts, unlocking creative solutions or generating new ideas for my stories. I’ve come to appreciate these seemingly “mindless” tasks as opportunities to let my imagination roam freely.

Laundry, with its cyclical nature, also reminds me of the passage of time—something I like to explore in my character development. As I fold clothes, I think about the little details that make characters human: the way someone holds onto an old sweater for sentimental reasons, or how the scent of fresh linens might evoke a childhood memory. These everyday objects can become powerful symbols in a story, giving characters depth and grounding the narrative in reality.

Incorporating Domestic Life into My Writing

In my writing, I love to weave elements of domestic life into my characters’ backgrounds and their day-to-day existence. I find that it adds layers of realism and relatability. A character who gardens may be someone who craves control or peace in their life. A character who obsessively decorates their space might be hiding insecurities or longing for a sense of belonging. Even something as simple as doing laundry can reveal aspects of a character’s personality—whether they’re meticulous, distracted, or using the task as a way to cope with emotions.

Finding Creativity in the Everyday

Ultimately, creativity is everywhere, even in the most routine activities. By embracing the domestic side of life, I’ve found inspiration in the ordinary. Gardening, decorating, laundry—they all offer new perspectives, sensory details, and emotional layers that help bring my stories to life. As I navigate the balance between motherhood and writing, I’ve learned that inspiration doesn’t always come from quiet, uninterrupted time at my desk. Sometimes, the best ideas grow out of the soil, the living room, or even the laundry basket.

If you’re a writer, I encourage you to look for creativity in your own daily life. You might be surprised by how the simplest tasks can fuel your imagination and deepen your storytelling. Whether it’s setting the stage for your next scene or finding a new layer of complexity for your characters, inspiration is all around you—waiting to be uncovered in the most unexpected places.

career, lifestyle

Writing and Workout Routines: How I Structure My Day for Both

Elizabeth Yuen

As a stay-at-home mom, writer, and someone who values staying active, finding balance in my daily schedule has been a journey. I’ve crafted a routine that helps me juggle writing, homemaking, and working out, while still making time for my family. Here’s a glimpse into what my typical day looks like:

6:00 AM: Early Start for Breakfast and Writing

The alarm goes off, and I start my day at 6 AM. After grabbing a quick breakfast, I dive straight into writing. This is my sacred hour, where the house is quiet, and I can focus on my creative projects. It’s a golden time to get into the flow and make headway on my novel before the day’s responsibilities kick in.

7:00 AM: Getting Ready for the Day

At 7 AM, I shift gears and start getting ready for the day. Outfits, shoes, bags—everything has to be in place before I head out the door. It’s a busy time––especially as a mom, but I’ve learned to embrace the hustle as part of the morning rhythm.

8:00 AM: Workout Class

By 8 AM, I’m at the gym for a workout class while my kid is in child watch. This is a crucial part of my routine, not only for staying healthy but also for keeping my mind sharp and energized. The hour spent moving and sweating is a great way to reset my brain, giving me the stamina to tackle the rest of the day.

9:30 AM: Childwatch Pickup

After my class, I pick my child up from the gym’s child watch. It’s a quick transition from workout mode back into mom mode, but it’s worth every minute of fitness time. Plus, my little one gets some fun playtime with friends while I’m working out.

10:00 AM: Nap Time Means Clean and Write Time

By 10 AM, it’s time for my child’s first morning nap. This is another golden hour for me. First, I take care of any cleaning or household tasks that need attention. Once the house is in order, I grab my laptop and get back to writing. Whether it’s refining dialogue, plotting, or getting lost in my characters’ world, I make the most of this uninterrupted time.

The Rest of the Day

The afternoon brings more family time, errands, and homemaking tasks. I fit in bits of writing wherever I can, but the morning is when I do the bulk of my creative writing. I love ending the day with a sense of accomplishment from both writing and homemaking, feeling balanced between my roles.

It’s not always easy, but having a structured routine helps me prioritize my passions and responsibilities. Writing, homemaking, and staying active all get their time to shine in my schedule, and that balance keeps me energized and fulfilled.

career, lifestyle

Balancing Homemaking Duties with Writing Dreams

Elizabeth Yuen

Balancing the daily demands of homemaking with the pursuit of writing is no easy task, and I often find myself pulled between the two. The struggle is real, but I’ve seen a few strategies that work for me, helping me navigate both worlds with less overwhelm.

1. Setting Realistic Goals

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is to set goals that align with my current capacity. Instead of aiming to write thousands of words every day, I’ve adjusted my expectations based on the reality of my schedule. On busier days, my goal might be as simple as writing a few hundred words or brainstorming ideas for my next chapter. By setting achievable, flexible goals, I’m able to make steady progress without the constant pressure of falling short.

For my novel writing, I like to break up my chapters into three digestible sections to tackle individually over three days. Day one I focus on part one of the chapter, day two I focus on part two and then day three is the final section. I can write about two chapters a week with that strategy and it’s not overwhelming.

Tip: Break larger writing projects into smaller, manageable tasks. This way, you can celebrate the small wins and stay motivated over time.

2. Asking for Help

It took time, but I’ve learned to ask for help when needed. Whether it’s enlisting my husband to handle certain household chores or asking a family member to watch the my kid for an afternoon, sharing the load has been key. I used to feel guilty about needing help, but now I see it as essential to creating balance. Writing is important to me, and asking for support has given me more time for my creative work.

Tip: Identify areas where you can delegate tasks, whether housework or childcare, and don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. I also recommend looking into child watch options at your local gym if that’s available to you.

3. You Don’t Have to be Perfect

Perfectionism was something I struggled with in both homemaking and writing. I wanted everything to be spotless, every meal homemade, and every word I wrote to be perfect. But trying to meet those unrealistic standards only led to burnout. Now, I accept that some days the laundry might pile up, or a rough draft may not be as polished as I’d like. By letting go of trying to be perfect, I’ve found more freedom to focus on what matters most—whether that’s spending quality time with my family or working on my novel.

Tip: Accept that not everything will be perfect, and that’s okay. Both your home and your writing are allowed to have flaws.

4. Prioritizing Self-Care

Taking care of myself has been crucial in balancing everything. Whether it’s a quiet morning with a cup of tea before the household wakes up or a quick walk in the afternoon, I make time to recharge. When I’m well-rested and mentally refreshed, I’m more productive and better equipped to handle both writing and homemaking responsibilities.

Don’t skimp on this. It is absolutely key to take time for yourself. Some of us only have the luxury of taking care of ourselves for an hour after everyone in the house is asleep. Take advantage of that and dedicate an hour of your time to taking care of you.

Tip: Make self-care a daily habit to help with your energy levels and mental clarity.

Conclusion

Balancing housework with writing ambitions requires a combination of realistic goal-setting, asking for help, accepting imperfection, and making space for self-care. It’s not always easy, but these strategies have helped me find a rhythm that works, allowing me to pursue my writing while still keeping the household running. If you’re struggling with this balance, know that it’s okay to adjust your expectations and seek support—it’s all part of the journey.

career, lifestyle

Organizing Your Life to Prioritize Writing

Elizabeth Yuen

As a stay-at-home parent, balancing homemaking duties with writing goals can feel overwhelming. The never-ending list of chores and responsibilities often makes it hard to carve out dedicated time for writing. However, with some thoughtful planning and organization, managing your household while prioritizing your creative work is possible. Here’s how you can organize your daily homemaking tasks to create space for writing, maintain mental clarity, and stay productive.

1. Create a Daily To-Do List

One of the simplest ways to organize your day is by making a to-do list. Before you start your morning, jot down the most important tasks that need to be done. This could include laundry, meal prep, tidying up, or paying bills. Break these down into small, manageable tasks, which makes the list less overwhelming and gives you a sense of accomplishment as you check things off.

The trick to a good to-do list is prioritizing. Ask yourself which tasks are time-sensitive and which can be pushed to later. Once you’ve identified the must-dos, block off time for writing. Treat it as a non-negotiable part of your day, like cooking or cleaning.

2. Declutter for Mental Clarity

A cluttered space can lead to a cluttered mind. When your surroundings are messy, it’s harder to focus on creative work. One of the best ways to set yourself up for a productive writing session is by keeping your home tidy and organized.

You don’t need to deep-clean every single day, but consider decluttering your most-used spaces. Focus on clearing off your desk or kitchen counter—the places where you might be working or brainstorming. A quick 10-minute clean-up can make a huge difference in how mentally prepared you feel to write.

3. Schedule Writing as Part of Your Daily Routine

Writing needs to be part of your daily routine, not just an afterthought. To make it easier, schedule your writing sessions around your homemaking tasks. For example, if you know you’ll have 30 minutes while the kids nap or after dinner, set that time aside specifically for writing.

This is where having a planner (I like the Daily Grind Planner) can be a game-changer. Having a planner allows you to map out your day, organize your household tasks, and still leave room for the things that matter most—like your writing. It’s designed to help you prioritize effectively, so you can find a balance between managing your home and working on your passion projects.

With a planner, you can:

  • Break your day into manageable chunks
  • Track your writing progress alongside homemaking tasks
  • Set daily goals that focus on both home management and creative work
  • Organize your week in advance to see where writing fits into the bigger picture

Having a planner like this helps you not just survive the day but thrive by knowing that both your homemaking and writing goals are being met.

4. Batch Similar Tasks Together

When you have a long list of chores, consider batching similar tasks together. For example, do all of your laundry at once, or meal prep for the week in one afternoon. This saves time and mental energy, giving you more space to write.

By organizing similar tasks, you’ll spend less time bouncing between different duties and more time in a productive flow. Once you’ve completed these tasks, you can focus fully on writing without worrying about the next chore on your list.

5. Start the Day with Intention

Your mornings set the tone for the rest of the day. If you start with intention, you’re more likely to stay organized and productive. Try to begin each day with a quick review of your planner or to-do list. Mentally prepare for both your homemaking responsibilities and your writing time.

Additionally, consider starting your day with a short writing session if possible. Even 15–20 minutes of writing first thing in the morning can give you a sense of progress and motivation to carry you through the rest of your day.

6. Build in Downtime

Finally, remember to give yourself some grace. Balancing homemaking and writing is no small task. Build some downtime into your schedule so you don’t burn out. Whether it’s a walk, a quiet moment with a cup of tea, or reading a book, having a few moments of rest will help you recharge and stay productive in the long run.

Final Thoughts

Organizing your daily homemaking tasks is key to finding more time for writing. By using tools like to-do lists, decluttering spaces, and incorporating writing into your daily schedule, you can ensure both your home and creative projects stay on track. With the help of a planner (again, my personal favorite is the Daily Grind Planner), it becomes much easier to balance these dual roles effectively.

Don’t wait for the perfect moment—make writing a priority today by organizing your life in a way that supports both your homemaking and your passion for storytelling.

Uncategorized

Book-Themed Workouts for Readers and Writers: Staying Fit in Your Favorite Fictional World

Elizabeth Yuen

Workouts inspired by books are trending. Now, this trend isn’t exactly the most recent, but I’ve noticed it popping up across social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Anywhere from running to Mordor to the Nesta Archeron 10K step challenge, bookish workouts are taking the internet by storm.

And I am so here for it.

In this post, I’ll share creative, book-inspired workouts that allow you to stay fit while channeling the energy of your favorite characters and stories. Whether you’re a fan of epic fantasy quests, dystopian thrillers, or cozy magical realms, there’s a workout here that will get your heart racing and your mind buzzing with creative energy.

1. Running to Mordor: A Lord of the Rings Cardio Adventure

Ever wondered how far Frodo and Sam actually walked to Mordor? Well, it’s about 1,779 miles from Hobbiton to Mount Doom, and now you can tackle this epic distance at your own pace! This workout is perfect for runners, walkers, or even treadmill enthusiasts who want to add a bit of adventure to their cardio routine.

How it works:

  • Track your distance with a fitness app (like Strava) and aim to walk or run the full distance over time.
  • Break the journey into manageable segments—like walking to Bree or crossing the Dead Marshes—and reward yourself at each milestone (a cup of tea in the Shire, anyone?).
  • You can even gather a “Fellowship” of friends or fellow writers to join you on this epic quest!

Bonus: Listen to the “Lord of the Rings” audiobook or soundtrack while you exercise to truly immerse yourself in Middle-earth!

2. The Hunger Games Survival Circuit

In the world of The Hunger Games, survival is key, and that means staying physically fit and ready for anything. This workout focuses on agility, strength, and endurance, just like Katniss would need in the arena.

How it works:

  • Archery lunges: Stand in a lunge position as if pulling back a bow. Do 10 reps on each side to strengthen your legs and core.
  • Tree-climbing squats: Katniss spent a lot of time climbing trees—replicate that strength with 3 sets of 15 squats to build powerful legs.
  • Agility jumps: Practice dodging fireballs or leaping over logs with side-to-side agility jumps. Jump back and forth for 30 seconds, rest, and repeat for 3 rounds.
  • Sprint like you’re being chased: Finish with 3 rounds of 20-second sprints, followed by 40 seconds of walking, to mimic running for your life!

3. The Nesta Archeron 10K Step Challenge (From A Court of Thorns and Roses)

Inspired by Nesta Archeron’s daily stair-climbing challenge in A Court of Silver Flames, this workout will get your legs burning and your steps in. Challenge yourself to hit 10,000 steps a day or add stair-climbing into your routine for a serious leg workout.

How it works:

  • Find a set of stairs (or use a stair machine) and aim to climb them for 20 minutes. Alternatively, set a daily goal of 10,000 steps if you prefer walking.
  • For an extra challenge, add in weighted stair climbs: carry light dumbbells or even your favorite book (as a symbolic weight) as you climb.

Bonus: As you climb, channel Nesta’s fierce determination and use this time to mentally work through your next story plotline!

4. The Hogwarts House Workout

For Harry Potter fans, you can infuse a little magic into your fitness routine by channeling the Hogwarts spirit. Each House has unique traits, and this workout is designed to help you embrace the strengths of Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, or Slytherin.

How it works:

  • Gryffindor courage: 3 rounds of 10 burpees to build explosive power and bravery.
  • Hufflepuff endurance: Hold a 1-minute plank to work on persistence and core strength.
  • Ravenclaw wisdom: Stretch for 10 minutes at the end of your workout—yoga or deep stretches—to focus on mindfulness and flexibility.
  • Slytherin ambition: Finish with 3 sets of 15 push-ups to build upper-body strength and determination.

Bonus: Keep track of your progress and reward yourself with a “House Cup” (a cozy cup of tea or coffee) after each successful workout session!

5. The Dauntless Training Regimen (From Divergent)

In Divergent, Dauntless initiates undergo intense physical training to test their bravery and strength. This high-intensity workout will have you feeling like a true Dauntless member, ready to leap from trains and face your fears.

How it works:

  • Box jumps or step-ups: 3 sets of 10, mimicking the leap from a moving train.
  • Push-ups: 3 sets of 15 to build upper body strength like a true Dauntless fighter.
  • Tire flips or kettlebell swings: Channel Dauntless grit with 3 sets of 10 reps to build full-body power.
  • Fear simulation runs: End with a 20-minute interval run, alternating between 1 minute of sprinting and 1 minute of walking to simulate the adrenaline rush of facing your greatest fear.

Want a more in-depth plan? Check this out.

6. The Jane Austen Stroll: A Regency-Era Walk

If intense workouts aren’t your style, take a leaf out of Jane Austen’s novels and enjoy a daily stroll through your neighborhood or a nearby park. Walking is a great way to stay active while reflecting on your latest writing project or mentally crafting the perfect scene.

How it works:

  • Aim for a 30- to 60-minute walk each day. During your walk, clear your mind and let the peaceful pace help you untangle plot points or character arcs.
  • Take a notebook or use a voice recording app to capture any sudden bursts of inspiration during your stroll.

7. The “Writing Sprint” Workout

Combine writing sprints with quick bursts of exercise to get the best of both worlds. Write for 20 minutes, then do a quick 5-minute workout to re-energize before diving back into your story.

Workout intervals:

  • 20-minute writing sprint
  • 5-minute workout: 10 squats, 10 push-ups, and a 30-second plank
  • Repeat for 3 or 4 rounds to stay productive and active!

Final Thoughts

Book-themed workouts are a fun, creative way to merge fitness with your love of reading and writing. Not only do they help you stay healthy, but they also keep your imagination alive by immersing you in your favorite fictional worlds. Next time you feel stuck at your desk or need a boost of inspiration, why not take a cue from Frodo, Katniss, or Harry and get moving?

So, lace up your running shoes, grab your water bottle (or your magic wand), and start sweating your way through the stories you love!

Uncategorized

ANSWERING IT ALL | Where I’ve Been and Goals for the New Year

Elizabeth Yuen

For those who have been following my social media accounts, you know I’ve essentially been MIA for the past year. I was getting into the groove of things — working on my writing career, diving into my YouTube channel, and building up my blog. All of that stopped when my husband and I found out I was pregnant in December of 2022.

While I was so grateful and excited for the new addition to our family, pregnancy came with a lot of aches and pains that I wasn’t quite sure how to deal with. It was all I could do just to roll out of bed in the morning, get to work, walk my dog and then promptly fall asleep as soon as I was done for the day.

After all of the pregnancy symptoms and exhaustion, I had a beautiful baby boy this past summer. It’s been such a whirlwind ever since.

But now I’m back. Totally and completely back.

I’m recommitting myself to my writing, YouTube channel and this blog. I plan on using YouTube and this blog to keep me accountable for reaching my goals in the coming years.

As we approach the new year, I’m laser focused on three major goals surrounding my health, family and writing. In 2024, I want to get my strength back. As I mentioned, my pregnancy really took it out of me. I used to go to workout classes, weight lift, and run. I lost that when I was pregnant (and then recovering from birth). I want to get back into it slowly and steadily. I already aim for 10,000 steps a day just by walking so I am working up to my exercise routine.

I also want to focus on my family life, being present for my loved ones and taking the time to enjoy motherhood. My son is growing quickly and I look forward to getting to know him and spending more time with him.

As for my writing, I want to become a published author (or well on my way to becoming one) by end of 2024. YouTube and this blog will help keep me accountable as I move forward in my career.

I’m really looking forward to getting back into the swing of things.

Preptober

PREPTOBER 2022 | All In

elizabethannebritton

Today is Halloween which means it is officially the end of Preptober. Today we’ll be chatting about what it means to be all in for November and how we can use these last few hours to prepare ourselves for the next 30 days.

Pat Yourself on the Back

If you have been going through Preptober with me, I want to give you a huge round of applause. You guys are seriously amazing and I hope you know how awesome you are. I am so freaking proud of you guys for getting ready to embark on your NaNoWriMo journey with tools in hand so you can go all in tomorrow.

The fact that you’ve committed to writing 50,000 words over the course of the month is truly mind-blowing. We are getting ready to tackle on a huge goal and you’ve already taken steps to set yourself up for success. So pat yourself on the back.

When you commit to getting after your writing every single day and work on achieving that novel in NaNoWriMo, that’s you proving to yourself that you can do anything. Let that sink in. You are a powerhouse of a person who is ready to take on NaNoWriMo.

I am proud of you and I am so excited for you.

Now What?

We’re here. We’ve arrived. It’s the moment that we’ve all been waiting for.

NaNoWriMo is here.

…Now what?

You can take the knowledge you’ve gained from this Preptober series I’ve been doing and dive straight into NaNoWriMo. You have been prepping throughout October which means that you’re ready to tackle NaNoWriMo. Just remember to take a breath and take your time as you go.

You could also revisit a lot of the content that I’ve created for Preptober as well as Preptober content from other creators. I like to do listen to others talk about NaNoWriMo throughout the month to remind myself that I’m not alone in this journey. This keeps me focused and it can help keep you focused too.

Lastly, go all in. Don’t hold back on your NaNoWriMo goals. Stay focused and keep working on your novel. Just think of your why and keep going.

Preptober

PREPTOBER 2022 | Treating Yourself

elizabethannebritton

Let’s chat about the fun part of NaNoWriMo: your reward system. Reward systems are a fantastic way to keep yourself motivated to hit your daily, weekly and monthly word count. It’s the carrot at the end of the stick––the extra oomph that will remind you that you have something waiting for you once you’re finished.

I’ll dive into all things reward systems and treating yourself in this blog post, so if that’s something you’re interested in, just keep reading.

Reward Systems 101

Reward systems for NaNoWriMo are traditionally broken up with bigger word count goals like hitting the 10,000, 20,000, 30,000, 40,000 and 50,000 word count marks. But just like breaking up NaNoWriMo into smaller daily goals, I recommend breaking up your reward system into smaller daily rewards. This way, you’re treating yourself every single day.

The reason is this: let’s say you’re writing the 1,667 words every single day. That means that you won’t reach that first 10,000 word count mark until the end of the first week in November. That’s nearly a week without a single reward. And if you’re someone like me who really enjoys and relishes rewards, then that’s far too long to go without a reward.

I recommend breaking up your reward system into three categories: daily, weekly, and end of the month rewards.

Daily Rewards

Your daily rewards should be things that are easily accessible to you. I’m thinking things like: doing your favorite workout in the morning, grabbing your favorite snack in the afternoon, having your drink of choice at night, and taking bubble baths. I love to take daily bubble baths to reward myself. I usually bring a book, light some candles, and wear a face mask to make it more of a spa-like experience.

I don’t recommend waiting until you’ve hit your word count for the day to reward yourself. Ideally, your rewards are trickled throughout the day as you check off your top ten goals. For example: one of my goals is to workout every single day in the month of November. To reward myself immediately after, I’m planning on eating my favorite breakfast immediately afterward.

These daily rewards should not be expensive or take up too much of your time. They should be quick and easy for you to have immediately. The key for daily rewards is to have that instant dopamine rush and feeling of having accomplished something.

Make things special for yourself and don’t be afraid to romanticize your life as a reward. So when you reward yourself daily, really lean into it and don’t skimp.

Weekly Rewards

Weekly rewards can and should happen at any point in the week––not just the end of the week. I usually like to schedule two to three weekly rewards per week. These rewards only happen when I’ve been hitting my daily goals. So what does that look like?

NaNoWriMo officially starts on Tuesday, November 1st. So I plan on going to my writers group on Thursday as a reward and Saturday I plan on being fully present for my husband’s 31st birthday.

The beauty of going to my writers group on Thursday is not only do I find it rewarding, but it also helps me accomplish one of my support group goals and I get to socialize with other writers. I always have the warm fuzzies after I spend time with my writers group.

On Saturday, I look forward to not only celebrating my husband’s birthday but also spending quality time with friends and family. I consider this a reward because we’re planning on doing some go-kart racing and heading to a brewery which are both fun activities where I can blow off steam.

I might throw in a couple more rewards of getting my nails done, going hiking on Sunday, and purchasing a few new books. The key with weekly rewards is to pick things that you really can’t do on a regular basis. Make these extra special and stand out from your daily rewards.

Your Monthly Rewards

I recommend having multiple monthly rewards. These rewards are for the end of the month when you have accomplished NaNoWriMo. I want you to actually do something big here.

Something big could be having a party with friends to celebrate NaNoWriMo being over or having a staycation at a local bed and breakfast. Are you planning on purchasing champagne? Pop that bubbly and enjoy. By the end of November, you deserve some pampering.

Like your weekly rewards, your monthly rewards should be extraordinarily special to you. These should be things that can only happen once per month because they are so rare. Think about this and really consider how you’re going to celebrate at the end of NaNoWriMo.

Rewards that Align With Your Goals

When you’re planning out your rewards for your month, make sure that they actually align with your top ten goals for NaNoWriMo. For example: I have a goal of exercising every day during NaNoWriMo. That means one of my rewards could be going to a yoga studio or picking up a delicious watermelon smoothie. That does not mean that I am going to reward myself by skipping a workout to watch television instead.

For writing, maybe your reward should be purchasing books that help you become a better writer or signing up for an upcoming writers’ conference you’ve had your eye on for a while. You’re not going to want to skip writing for the day to reward yourself and derail you from your ultimate goal of reaching 50,000 words in the month of November. That won’t be helpful and it doesn’t align with your goal.

Whatever your rewards are, just make sure that they resonate with your goals. You don’t want to go completely off the rails and then lose track of what you’re trying to accomplish.

When thinking of rewards for NaNoWriMo, just make sure that they are actual rewards for you. They should be things you really look forward to. Don’t reward yourself with things that don’t make you happy. Remember: these are rewards for your hard work, so treat yourself accordingly.

Let me know in the comment section below if this blog was helpful!

Preptober

PREPTOBER 2022 | Promises

elizabethannebritton

We’ve gone over a lot during Preptober––goal setting, your why, routines… but none of that will matter if you’re in the midst of NaNoWriMo and aren’t following through on your promises. I’ve mentioned having an accountability system will help you follow through on your NaNoWriMo goals, but I haven’t talked much about the ultimate promise: the promise to yourself.

Your promise to yourself could be completing 50,000 words in November. Or it could be something else entirely. But if you’re participating in NaNoWriMo and you haven’t publicly declared it, now’s the opportunity to step up and declare yourself a participant.

Others Will Look at You Differently

No one likes the person that says they’re doing something and then they never actually accomplish it. Nobody. Because if you don’t follow through on your promises, you look like an unreliable person. And no one wants to work with let alone hang with someone who is unreliable.

I used to be that person. When I wasn’t making my writing a priority, I told everyone that I wanted to be a writer. I had been talking a big game about what I wanted out of life, but those were just words. Empty words that were coming out of my mouth.

I was a liar. I lied to everyone––including myself. All because I wasn’t following through on what I said I was going to do. I made empty promises with no follow-through and people saw me for what I was: someone who made promises I never intended to keep.

It wasn’t until I was two years into one of my previous jobs as a marketing coordinator that one of my coworkers called me on it.

“You said you wanted to be a writer two years ago,” she said. “What happened? Have you made any progress on that?”

She wasn’t being rude. She was just voicing what everyone––including myself, on some level––was thinking.

And you know what? She was right.

I had gotten my English degree with the mindset of becoming a published author someday, but my dream scared me too much to take any action on it. I had unfinished works, query letters that I had never sent, and an imagination that went wild with endless ‘what if’ scenarios.

Oh, I used to cling to the excuses: “I’ve been busy working a full time job. I’ve been taking coding classes on the side. I have a husband now. I don’t have time to write.”

And those were some weak excuses. Because that’s all they were: excuses.

The real problem was me. I was the one standing in my own way, afraid to take a step forward into who I really wanted to become. My fear was the real thing that was stopping me.

Now when I tell someone I’m going to do something, I follow through. I make a plan of action and I try to be as truthful as I can. If someone asks me to do something, I either tell them that I do not have time for it or tell them a reasonable timeframe that it will get done. And when I talk about writing now, I know and other people know that I’m actually getting my writing done.

Figure out what is stopping you from fulfilling your promises. Do not fall into the same traps that I did. Do not procrastinate. Determine what you really want and get after it.

People will look at you differently if you do.

Self Confidence

You cannot have self confidence if you do not do what you say you are going to do. Let’s say you have a goal to drink a gallon of water every day. If you consistently do not reach that goal and instead drink soda all day, how will you feel about yourself? Pretty low.

When I was struggling with being overweight, I would tell everyone that I was on a diet. Then, I’d proceed to down a whole bunch of chips and ice cream. I want to remind you: there is nothing wrong with chips and ice cream in moderation. But at that time, I’d go do a workout where my heart wasn’t in it and then turn right around to eat way more than I ever needed to in secrecy.

Behind the scenes, I was miserable. I kept up a pretense that I was living a healthy lifestyle. Newsflash: I wasn’t. I was tired and groggy and just not feeling great. The double life I led was exhausting until I finally just gave up pretending.

It wasn’t until I started actually showing up for myself that things changed. I’m just not talking about the weight loss––I’m talking about the emotional journey. I went from empty promises with myself to fulfilled promises with myself.

The difference in my attitude became night and day. I discovered that by following through on promises you have made yourself, you are telling yourself that you have integrity. That you can follow through on plans you’ve made. You’re developing trust with yourself by refusing to give up.

Show up for yourself. Keep the promises that you make to yourself and see your self confidence completely transform.

Accountability

A part of ensuring that you’re getting your writing done is how you’re holding yourself accountable. I’ve talked before about having accountability goals. Your accountability goals should do just that: hold you accountable.

One of the reasons why I started up my YouTube channel and posting regularly on social media is to hold myself accountable to what I said I was going to do. If I’m not regularly writing, my social media is going to reflect that and my followers will know that my head isn’t in the game.

Keeping promises to yourself is important, so if you say you’re going to write 50,000 words in November for NaNoWriMo, make sure that you are able and willing to follow through.

Tomorrow, I’ll be discussing more of the fun stuff surrounding NaNoWriMo like reward systems and treating yourself. Let me know in the comment section below if this blog was helpful.

Preptober

PREPTOBER 2022 | Your Evening Routine

elizabethannebritton

I honestly think I love evening routines more than I love morning routines. When I think of an evening routine, I think of winding down, bubble baths, and writing. I also view an evening routine as the perfect set up for a morning routine.

How your evening routine is done will directly impact how your morning routine goes. I’ll dive into this a little later in the blog and you’ll see how important having both a morning and an evening routine is.

Strolling Into Your Evening

It’s five o’clock. You’ve had a long day of work. You’re probably tired and lacking creative energy. You’re feeling groggy and maybe your shoulders hurt from leaning over your computer all day.

It’s at this time that I recommend getting away from any screens and going outside for a walk. It’s really important to get out and enjoy any last rays of sunshine you can for the start of your evening.

I mentioned in the morning routine blog that exercise can help with your creativity. This is true. Getting your body moving will help those creative juices flow and get you ready to write in your evening. Go for a walk or a run, or roll out a yoga mat and do some stretching. If this time is the only time you have to squeeze in your workout for the day, make sure you make the most of it.

You’ll really want to take advantage of this time so later when you write in the evening, you’re not restless. Instead, you’ll be rejuvenated and ready to get in your word count.

Family Time

After you’re done your evening workout, make sure that you eat a proper meal with friends or family. Do not eat alone if at all possible. Regular socialization is important to keeping your sanity during NaNoWriMo. Take a full hour or so to be fully present with your friends and family.

Ask them about their day, and chat with them about how your writing is going. This time is great for tapping into your support system––especially if you’re dealing with one of your NaNoWriMo roadblocks.

Having others to talk to during NaNoWriMo will help make the solo journey less lonely. They don’t have to be writing with you to be supportive of you. Just chat with them and enjoy this time in the evening.

Set the Mood

Before you even get to writing, set the mood. Light some candles and put on some background noise like a movie or some music that inspires you. Grab margarita or your drink of choice. Really lean into setting the mood for your writing.

Figure out where you’re going to be writing in the evening as well. I like to write at my desk in the mornings, but at night I love to relax on the couch with my laptop to get my writing done. Try and pick a place where you feel most comfortable.

The place you write in the evening should be very different from where you wrote in the morning––if you wrote in the morning. Part of this is making sure that you have a different mindset than you do in the morning. In the morning, it’s a lot about the hustle and the drive. It’s more about pushing yourself hard and doing as much as you can before your day begins. At night, your goal should be to keep your mood relaxed and calm because you’re trying to wind down from a long and stressful day.

Setting the mood will help with you keeping things calm and de-stressing from the workday.

Evening Writing

If you haven’t written yet, around seven at night is the perfect time to get your writing done. It’s long enough after your workday to give you a bit of a break away from screens, but early enough in the evening that you have some brainpower for a couple of hours to get your word count in.

The only problem with evening writing is this: your willpower diminishes greatly throughout the day and you may not get your word count in if you wait to write until the evening. This is why I emphasize writing as soon as you wake up so you can get ahead and beat out any kind of decision fatigue. However, I realize that waking up earlier might not be in the cards for some of you and you may need to rely on writing in the evenings to get your word count done.

By creating an evening routine with writing at the heart of it, you’ll ensure that you’re creating a habit that can help carry you through NaNoWriMo. Even if you only have thirty minutes to write in the evenings because of familial obligations or life circumstances, making sure that you sit down to write in the evenings is a great way to get in your word count.

Set Up Your Morning for Success

Once you’re done with your writing for the night, put away your laptop. Do not spend hours scrolling unless it’s going to be for inspiration. Electronics can seriously mess with your sleep schedule––the light from your laptop can send signals to your brain telling you that you need to stay awake. This will impact your sleep. And as I’ve mentioned in previous blog posts, you cannot sacrifice your sleep.

Lay out your clothes for the next morning. I usually put my clothes in the bathroom so as soon as I get up in the morning, I brush my teeth and my clothes are right there ready to go. It makes waking up earlier than usual way easier for me. It’s harder to tell yourself to just go back to sleep if your clothes are in your face, telling you to get up and get moving.

The Wind Down

After you’ve set your morning up for success, it’s time to start winding down for the evening so you can have the best quality of sleep possible. You could take a bubble bath, read a book, or grab a coloring book. If you’re not sick of writing for the day, grab a journal and write down how you’re feeling at the end of the day. Listen to soothing music or a podcast that you can relax to.

At the very end of your evening, I recommend praying or listening to a meditation for writers like this one. Make sure to set your phone FAR away from your bed so you’re not tempted to stay awake and scroll after the meditation has ended.

Now, I’m not going to tell you what time you should go to bed, but I do recommend getting to bed relatively early if possible. Remember that NaNoWriMo is a marathon, not a sprint and you’re going to need to rest up properly on a regular basis so you do not burn out. Figure out how much sleep you need and then set your own bed time from there. If you’re waking up at five in the morning like I am, I recommend being in bed no later than nine so you can get at least seven hours of sleep. Just do what is right for you and for your body.

Let me know what your NaNoWriMo evening routine will look like in the comments section below. I always love hearing from you guys.