6 Relatable Writing Habits

Whether you’re a seasoned author or a keen beginner, you’re a writer. And if you’re a writer, you may struggle with certain things or have certain habits.

I’ve spoken to a vast array of authors far and wide and have consolidated 6 habits that most people tend to have! In a way, it’s encouraging to hear that other people struggle and do these things too – you’re not alone! On the other hand, it might mean that you’ll continue to have these habits forever but I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that.

I find some of the things on this list hilarious because if you don’t write, you might not understand why these things happen and it will seem super strange. But if you’re a writer you’ll understand. You know…#iykyk 

Here are 6 relatable writing habits writers have:

1. Getting distracted when you’re stuck

It’s SO easy to get distracted and once you are, it can be a struggle to get back into it. One little hump in your story and suddenly you get up because you’re hungry, or what about that homework, you were supposed to do? Or maybe a washroom break?

2. Questionable search history

If someone saw your search history would they be suspicious of you? “How does a dead body smell?”, “how to overthrow a government”, “how do horses sprain their leg”, “sociopath tendencies”, etc. These are all things I’ve searched before and am embarrassed about.

3. Spending lots of time on baby name websites

If you search up baby name websites on my internet browser, all the links will be purple, meaning I’ve visited it before. I mean all of them. These websites are so helpful when it comes to coming up with character names – how can I stay away?

4. Constantly relate things to your story

Whenever you’re out and about, the little things will remind you of your story and give you ideas for it as well. I’m always whipping out my phone at the most inconvenient times to jot down story ideas. When I’m driving and can’t pull out my phone, I’ll repeat it out loud so I don’t forget the idea before I can stop somewhere and type it in.

5. Spending too much time on little things

Some days I can write 500 words no problem and the ideas just flow out of me. Other days I struggle with making one sentence sound right or with describing a place the way I want it to.

6. Talking to your characters

You might catch yourself talking to your characters while you’re writing. Apologizing to them because you’re about to make something bad happen, or asking them what the heck they want! The latter happens often with me.

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If you’re a seasoned author, chances are that you’re used to these things and have accepted that they’re the norm. So what about those of us that are newer to writing? If you’re a part of my book corner, I hope you know that I’m here to support you the best I can. Now that you know you’re not alone, you can embrace these quirks and be proud of them, and as usual you can always reach out to me if you need anything writing or reading-related!

Check out my blog post for 7 writing tips for new authors.