A Ritual can be defined as: An established or prescribed procedure for a rite. While writing is often demanding, it is not a rite in the strictest sense of the word. However, creating a writing ritual can be a great way to establish a writing habit that takes you well into your creativity.
There are plenty of well known authors of past and present who often practiced rituals. From lighting candles, to being a well known marathon runner, such as author Haruki Murakami, rituals have served humanity well.
A ritual does not have to be dogmatic or formal. Simply taking a few minutes to become centered could be enough. Perhaps taking a walk in nature before beginning your writing could serve as a catalyst towards your writing day. Decorating your writing space to include inspirational quotes or praying before you begin your writing are all ways to develop a consistent writing ritual.
What’s important is that whatever you choose; make it personal and meaningful to your life. You will find that once you create your writing ritual, you are well on the way towards creating an established habit that will help strengthen your writing goals.
Happy Writing
LNora
Where Fact Meets Fiction
Paula Potts
12/30/2017 at 1:02 pmExcellent advice! Just to share a bit of my writer’s story. I resisted the ritual process a bit early in my writing process for my recent memoir. Once I found a ritual rhythm that suited my goals (deadlines) and my lifestyle (eclectic)
. . . The editorial re-write process was easier that I ever imagined and full of illuminating inspiration, reverence and clarity.