Has Your Writing Routine Adapted Post-Pandemic?

Photo by Thought Catalog on Unsplash

Has your writing routine changed up a bit since we've experienced quarantine? I've talked to quite a few creatives whose routines either completely polarized or solidified into habit. I'm interested in hearing what your experience has been with it, and I'd like to share mine.

I had to write in a coffee shop.

Pre-pandemic, my extrovert self would pack up my laptop, notebook, headphones, and charger and drive 15 minutes to a semi-local coffee shop. I always had to get up early to get a good table--there was one particular spot I liked in the mid-back against a brick wall--to set up. There was so much anxiety: would I be able to find a good parking spot? Was the line going to be long? Too many large groups? Though I loved writing in a space surrounded by people (even if we weren't interacting) there were lots of hoops to jump through. When I physically couldn't go in, I felt like I wouldn't be as productive. Man was I wrong. I turned our guest room into a home office (sort of) by building a bookshelf, putting up some artwork, and setting up a desk.

I didn't mind chaotic sounds around me

Now, I really value that early morning quiet. Less distractions means I can really put myself in my character's head space. Some noises are okay, as long as they're not directed toward me. I still can't listen to music though.

I only gave myself an hour or two.

Now it's my butt in the seat for 3-4 hours on average, most mornings. With another full time job in the mix, it does make it difficult to write during the weekdays, unless I'm up at 5 AM, but otherwise I'm sitting there and trying to get my story figured out.

Those are just a few changes that have happened naturally as we've gone through extended periods of isolation, working from home, etc. How has your writing routines changed? Want to tell me about any unique parts of your writing ritual? Send me a message and tell me all about. I love hearing about different methods!