I really didn’t want to write anything this week. I’m not just talking about this post. I’m talking about fiction, poetry, even emails. People seem to have this misconception that what we writers do is something that’s fun 100% of the time. While I like killing off my characters as much as the next person, the reality is that there are days when I hate the idea of sitting in front of my computer and working on my stories.

No matter what your passion is, be it painting, teaching, writing, or basket weaving, there are inevitably going to be days when the hardest thing you have to do is get up and get to work. That being said, I strongly believe the key to growth and success—whatever those may look like to you—is consistency. Consistency always beats intensity.

I know that sounds like some gym-bro, productivity buzz phrase, but it’s a phrase that I find to be true.

No matter the skill you’re trying to develop, it’s important to show up consistently. Does that mean I have to write 5,000 words every day? Fuck no. Most days I can barely get to 250. The point is, every morning I drag myself out of bed and write—be it for an hour or ten minutes, 1000 words or 100.

The important part is that you show up, and over time, that consistency builds to something extraordinary.

There are a few practices I try to keep up with to help me be consistent with my writing habits.

1. Blocking time in my calendar to write
2. Having an accountability partner/group
3. Limiting obstacles and distractions between me and my computer
4. Taking the time to rest when I need it

I’ve written about some of the practices before and how they’ve helped me. You can check out that post here. However, I don’t know if I’ve written in depth about the fourth practice.

While writing may not be a draining task like working in an ER hospital (anyone else been watching The Pit?), our individual lives can be overwhelming. That being said, if you need to take a break from your writing, if you just don’t have the energy to write a paragraph or a poem, rest.

Recharging our battery is essential and can look different from person to person. Sometimes its a fifteen minute nap, an extra minute in a hot shower, a moment alone in your car, taking deep breaths. Whatever it may look like for you, take the time to rest and recharge before returning to your day and maybe even the blank page.