How to create writing rituals and enjoy the writing process

When I’m in a regular writing habit I pretty much just sit down and do it — or so it seems. Even that act is deceptively simple — there’s a foundation of behaviors and actions that leads me there — every time.

I don’t wait for the new moon or cast a multi-step spell before I can do it. But even in my mundane path to the desk, there’s quite a ritual — purposeful steps I take, in a particular order, that prepare me for the work.

I write first thing in the morning. First, I wash my face. I walk the dog and my body and mind start to wake as I take in the day and move. I brew coffee and then mix in the perfect amount of creamer. Then I sit down and write.

If I’m sleepy or idea-less, I get up and dance. If I’m antsy and need more support to focus I set a timer for fifteen or twenty-five minutes.

You could say that the ritual starts the night before: I have to put myself in bed at a reasonable hour or the alarm that gets me up in time to write won’t work.

Everything we do or don’t do for ourselves creates a chain reaction. We’re always gaining momentum on something. Are your habits supporting what you want, or leading you away from them?

~

When our creativity has retreated to a far corner of the hall closet behind the debris of other hobbies and other people’s projects, it’s not as simple as just sitting down with a cuppa.

After a break, we can get frustrated, nervous, uncertain where we left off let alone where we want to begin.

In these times it takes a bit more intention to get back to words.

Part of the magic of working with writing rituals is the return to process. Creative writing is a layered, loose, and non-linear act that misbehaves as compared to the simple tasks we conquer on a day to day basis.

A ritual is a path from the to-do list to the page. It plays on the ordered part of the brain that wants concrete steps, while luring you to play beyond the thinking mind.

A writing ritual draws out your power to be in the moment, observe at a higher level, and take risks on whatever comes to mind — without fear of judgment or internal hindrances. It invites you to be in a process that has no goal other than to be practiced.

So where to begin? How do you know what steps you want in your writing rituals and which ones you need? How do you know what a ritual is made of and when and how to do it?

Look for answers in what’s worked for you before. Do you listen to white noise or Cyndi Lauper? Do you put your jeans on or need to stay in your jammies? Are you a morning writer or do you like to stay up into the wee hours? Is your necessary routine to defy routine? For the rebels among us, not trying to follow a routine may be part of your system.

When you’re far from creative expression and craving it, it’s time for some support. To break through, I recommend attempting writing rituals you can follow along with rather than doing the work of building the game and playing. It’s time for you to give up the reigns and find room to explore without pressure or restraint.

Originally published at http://www.mollythorntonwrites.com on December 1, 2020.