I think a really important part of writing is the right setting. I’m not necessarily talking about where to sit, or what time of the day you write, but those can be important too. I prefer to write at my computer, either my desktop or my little laptop. I prefer a comfortable spot, without too many distractions around me. Here are a few habits I have picked up over the years with writing:

1. Music – Music has the power to inspire. More so, I feel, than movies or TV, because it creates a picture in your mind. Different music makes you feel different things. It forces your imagination to come alive. It is similar to books in that way. This is a personal opinion, but I think movies and TV (much as I love them) tell you what you are supposed to feel. With music, as with books, it is more open to interpretation. My musical preference can vary depending on my mood, as well as what I am writing. Sometimes I just listen to instrumental music. Some bands release an entire instrumental CD, along with their albums. Epica, in particular, do this. I also thoroughly enjoy the work of violinist Lindsey Stirling.

If I am listening to music with vocals, I listen to bands like Kamelot and Nightwish – metal bands that make use of orchestral music combined with heavy metal. Their songs always tell a story, make you think, and make you feel. For me, they also inspire. On the other hand, I really enjoy listening to Mumford and Sons. I am very open to my music tastes, but there are certain types I primarily listen to while writing.

I think the trick is finding what music works for you – what will inspire you as well as focus you. Don’t get me wrong, I still get plenty distracted by music. When certain songs come on, I just have to sing along. Sometimes I don’t even realise I am doing it.

2. Tea – I drink a lot of tea while I write. My favourite is green tea, but I sometimes have different herbal combinations. Green tea is good for headaches – which I get frequently, and for calming nerves (of which I get a lot). Plus, it is good for you!

I drink a lot of water, as well, especially since it is so damn hot here in Sydney. Like, the other night it was 29 degrees celsius at midnight! Like, universe, what is up with that?

3. No Distractions – I usually prefer to write alone. If my housemate is home, for example, we get talking and it could be hours later before I turn back to my writing. Nothing wrong with a good gossip, but for me it is from one distraction to the other. So that’s why I can’t watch TV while I write. The other day I put Archer on, thinking I have seen it so many times I’m unlikely to be distracted. I was wrong. I mean, it is so stupid on one level, but on the other… it’s awesome. Another key thing is to keep your phone far away from you – stay away from social media. Because I know well how easily distracted you can get by Instagram and Facebook. During your writing time, you need to make it a priority!

3. Reward yourself – Not like with a Ferrari or something. First, who has the money for that? And second, it’s kind of a douchey car. But reward yourself in small ways. Treat yourself to some chocolate if you get a thousand words done. During NaNoWriMo it was a finger bun! Bribing yourself is good, especially when you are getting something done that you really want done! I often reward myself with some Skyrim (though, that being said, is there ever such a thing as some Skyrim?).

Then for bigger goals, like finishing your draft, buy something for yourself that you wouldn’t normally. Some shoes you really want, or that new game you really want to play.

In the end, it all comes down to personal preference. There are some days where I simply write in silence. Sometimes the inspiration comes to me so fast that everything around me just fades away and I write. God, I wish that happened more often.

You need to find what works for you, find a happy place. More importantly, a place you can relax and feel free to let your imagination have full reign. Then, on the days where nothing seems to come go for a walk or hang out with friends… read a book! Remember, inspiration can come from the most random places!

So happy writing, and remember to find your happy place!