How to motivate the writer within you

This is a HUGE topic.

Whole books have been written about the topic of motivation. I just want to give you one little writing hint today. It works for me but I acknowledge that it may not work for everyone. However, I believe it is worth a try.

Graph the hours written

I keep a daily record of the number of hours I spend on my writing. It is not totally accurate to the minute; it is just a guide. Then I graph the results over a whole year. I can then see if I’m improving, slowing down or not being very productive. If I see my graph going in an upwards direction it encourages me to keep on going. If the graph is declining it spurs me on to get back on track. It keeps me accountable. Matched against my goals for the year I can see at a glance how I’m going.

It works for me. Perhaps it can work for you too.

Bonus Idea:

You could also keep a record of the number of words written and graph that against your weekly, monthly or annual goals.

Good writing.