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How I stopped procrastinating and became a Productive Writer writing up to 10,000 words a day

Updated: Jan 7

I understand that this is a rather subjective topic so I'll only talk about my experience and what works for me. Just so you know, my work MBTI is an INTJ so this method is extremely effective for someone who requires structure. If you have a different personality and require other methods, feel free to share in the comment below!


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I certainly did not start as a writer capable of writing 6,000 words a day on average. Most people might not be able to do that right off the bat either. It takes a lot of practice, preparations and discipline to get to this stage so don't feel bad if that's not you yet.


Disclaimer: I've only ever hit that 10,000 words a day a handful of times but people like Sunscar and JKSManga might have done it on a more regular basis. However, it is certainly possible if you train for it.


Step 1: Understand the reason for Procrastination


As Sun Tzu said, it is important to understand both your enemy and yourself before you can win any battle. Understanding the cause of your procrastination is the start to getting over it. there could be several factors including physical, emotional and psycological. List them down and start small. It's easier to get things done after you find the momentum to it, start with something small before moving to something bigger. That's the first step to overcoming it.


Step 2: Remove Distractions


Now that you've figured it all out, it's time to get moving. If the weather is making your brain cells melt, think of a way to get to a cooler environment. If the construction noises just across the street are driving you crazy, go to the library or wear noise-cancelling earphones. If your homework is due in two hours and you haven't done it, get started!


Removing the things weighing you down is a good way to cut down on potential 'reasons' why you should not start writing.


Step 3: Create the Right Environment


Sometimes we need coffee. Other times, we need a room without sunlight. More often than not, we need parents to stop coming into our rooms and telling us to do chores or run errands every 5 seconds.


Creating the right environment might be tricky but if you have the right set-up, I think that's half the battle won.


Pro tip: Invest in a good desk and chair. Get a decent computer and work from the cloud or something with an autosave function in case of a blackout or a connection loss situation. The last thing you want to do is become demoralised when you lose 700 words from unforeseen circumstances.


Step 4: Set a Time Limit and Word Target


After you're ready to start, decide on a time limit that you'll put 2000% of your brainpower into your work. Ideally, you could use 15 to 25 minute intervals like the Pomodoro method of writing sprint timers to help you with it. Also, set a word count target of what you want to see written after the time limit is up. This keeps you on track and helps you to stay focused until you reach your targeted number of chapters or word count.


Step 5: Take Breaks


Many people overlook the importance of breaks. Without breaks, the brain will overheat, the wrists will cramp and in the long term, you'll develop chronic back problems. Resting and recharging is almost as important as producing chapters. A writer's physical and mental health is the secret to success.


You've worked hard for 20 minutes, you should rest harder for 10 minutes.

Step 6: Reward Yourself Appropriately


Congratulations on finishing 10,000 words or however much you've decided to work on! It wasn't an easy process but you finally did it! Don't neglect yourself and move on to the next task already. Give yourself a good break and celebrate. Pamper yourself and leave the rest of your work for tomorrow when you've recharged completely. It's time to binge on your favourite anime and kdrama series!

In conclusion...


Productivity is subjective so don't compare yourself to another writer's standards. Constant improvement is good enough. Remember to love yourself more after working hard! You deserved it.

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