5 Productivity Myths Every Writer Needs to Know

Writing can often feel like a lonely and difficult process. Despite our determination and best efforts, it's common to grapple with writer’s block, distraction, lack of motivation, and lagging productivity.

In my work as an editor and productivity coach, I’ve seen writer after writer struggle with many common myths and misconceptions that hold them back from making real progress. Here are 5 big productivity myths that every writer should be aware of:

Myth #1 - I Need 3-Hour Blocks of Uninterrupted Time to Write

It’s a tempting fantasy; locking yourself away in a remote cabin for weeks on end to focus solely on your masterpiece. This is also what we hear time and time again from renowned writers who share their writing routine. But for most real-world writers, this type of schedule just isn’t feasible. The truth is writing can fit into small pockets of time between all your other responsibilities. Those focused 20-30 minute sessions (or even 5-15 minutes) throughout your week can allow you to maintain momentum. Don’t use the lack of huge blocks of time as an excuse!

Myth #2 - I Need Inspiration to Start Writing

Many writers tend to view inspiration as this magical state of mind that they need to feel before setting fingers to keyboard. However, don’t discount actually sitting down to write as a catalyst itself for inspiration. Once you start engaging with your ideas on the page, you’ll stir up creative connections that eluded you when staring at a blank screen waiting for your ‘muse’ to appear.

If you are looking for a plan that will get you writing without inspiration and leans full into taking action and building momentum then you might want to grab my 7x7 Writing Action Plan. The plan will combat every single one of these myths and give you actionable steps to start and keep writing throughout the week. Grab the action plan here.

Myth #3 - I Should Always Edit as I Go

Some writers obsessively edit and second-guess every sentence as they write their first drafts. Resist that temptation! As part of maintaining productivity, it helps enormously to turn off your inner critic in that initial spewing out of words phase. You’ll keep anxiety at bay and avoid losing momentum. Editing comes later in the process for good reason.

Myth #4 - If I’m Stuck, I Should Force It

Pushing hard when you're genuinely feeling stuck or burnt out almost always backfires. You’ll end up frustrated and the writing you squeeze out won’t be your best work. Instead of forcing it, give yourself permission to take a break. Go for a walk, do a mindfulness exercise, or shift gears to another project. Coming back to your writing fresh often unlocks those areas you felt blocked.

Myth #5 - Writing Has to Be Lonely

While writing requires focus and solitude at times, that doesn’t mean you have to treat it like you are alone on a desert island! Connecting with a coach, writing partner, or even just chatting with a sympathetic friend can make an enormous difference in cutting through negative mental chatter. We all need some accountability outside our own heads.

And if you are looking for a group of likeminded queer and women writers who are in the same place as you, check out our Productive Writer's Facebook Group. The group is filled with tons of writing tips and tricks, and live events EVERY WEEK that are there to help you keep chugging along the writing track. We would love to have you come join the group here.

Wrap Up

As you start your writing journey, keep an eye out for these common productivity myths tripping you up. And if you find yourself regularly struggling to stay motivated and make writing progress, reach out to us here. We would be honored to help you on your journey! 

Having an expert guide tailor a plan based on your unique writing challenges and lifestyle can truly accelerate achieving your writing goals.

If you want a guided approach to boosting your writing productivity check out my 7x7 Writing Action Plan and start taking action on your writing immediately!