Overview:

Writing a novel can be a challenging task, but creating a plan and making writing a habit can help you succeed. James Clear's book Atomic Habits offers strategies to cultivate small habits that lead to significant achievements. These include getting focused on what to write, eliminating distractions, knowing your time of genius, habit stacking, tracking your progress, rewarding yourself, and building a supportive tribe. These tips can help you write a novel and own your power.

Many of you have been struggling to complete your novel or organize your ideas. Trust me, I’ve been there! The key is to make writing a habit, not just a hobby. By creating a plan, you set yourself up for success. 

Writing a novel is such a rewarding journey,  but also a challenging one. I’ve completed six books and without the help of some of these tips many of them would still be sitting in a composition notebook in my chicken scratch collecting dust.  Many writers struggle due to a lack of discipline, consistency, support, and motivation. James Clear’s book Atomic Habits offers strategies to cultivate small habits that lead to significant achievements. Here are seven powerful ways to apply these principles to finish your novel:

1. Get Focused on What to Write

Define your project’s scope: genre, word count, and a target completion date for your first draft. Planning an outline—even if you don’t stick to it 100%—helps organize your thoughts. Break the goal into manageable tasks, like writing a set number of words daily or completing specific chapters by deadlines.

Once you gain clarity, inspiration will flow. Use these tools to capture your ideas:

  • Use the audio feature or notepad on your phone when an idea hits you.
  • Create a Google Doc for brain dumps. I also love using the Notion app. 
  • Observe people or events for story ideas.

For non-fiction writers, writing an article a week can result in a book within months. My first book, Jack of All Trades, Master of None?, came from a compilation of my newsletters on business and personal growth.

Student is writing in the library (photo by Getty)

2. Eliminate Distractions

Distractions, especially digital ones, are major obstacles. Clear’s concept of “environment design” can help:

  • Keep tools like notebooks, pens, or resource books within reach.
  • Put your phone on airplane mode or in another room.
  • Create a distraction-free writing space—your personal Writing Sanctuary.
  • Use noise-canceling headphones or silence notifications.

To tackle internal distractions, meditate or journal before writing to release stress and focus.

3. Know Your Time of Genius

Identify when you’re most productive. Are you a morning person or do you thrive at night? Make writing a non-negotiable part of your day. Commit to a specific duration (e.g., 30 minutes) or word count (e.g., 500 words). Use Clear’s “two-minute rule”: start writing for just two minutes daily. Once you begin, it’s easier to keep going.

4. Utilize Habit Stacking

Combine your writing habit with an existing habit to make it easier to stick to. For example:

  • After pouring coffee, spend 5 minutes free-writing.
  • After lunch, take a walk to clear your mind and generate ideas.
  • After a workout, jot down creative thoughts.
  • Before bed, read for 15 minutes to expose yourself to different writing styles.
  • I love to read while getting my steps in on the treadmill for 30 mins. 

My habit stacking involves writing after meditating and journaling, with a cup of Vanilla Chai Tea and incense burning.

pen pencil study textbooks

5. Track Your Progress

Tracking progress boosts motivation. Use tools like:

  • Calendars or whiteboards.
  • Spreadsheets or habit-tracking apps (e.g., ClickUp, Streaks,  Notion, Campfire Writing).

Visually seeing your progress, like marking off days you wrote, reinforces the habit and keeps you accountable.

6. Reward Yourself

Create a reward system for achieving milestones. For example:

  • Write 500 words, then watch an episode of your favorite show.
  • Treat yourself to something relaxing or enjoyable after completing a chapter.

Understanding cues and cravings behind procrastination can also help you stay on track. Addressing these triggers keeps your writing momentum strong.

7. Build Your Writer’s Tribe

Writing doesn’t have to be a solitary pursuit. Join workshops, conferences, or writing groups to connect with others. Accountability partners or mentors can hold you to your goals.

I created a Facebook group, The Writer’s Lab, to support writers over five years ago and it’s been going strong. Share your progress and celebrate milestones with a supportive community.

Summary

Incorporating the principles of Atomic Habits into your writing routine can transform your process. Remember these key steps:

  1. Get focused.
  2. Eliminate distractions.
  3. Know your time of genius.
  4. Utilize habit stacking.
  5. Track your progress.
  6. Reward yourself.
  7. Build a supportive tribe.

Consistency, not perfection, is the goal. Embrace the journey and watch your novel come to life one word at a time.

Happy Writing and Own Your Power!
Coach Simone Kelly

P.S. Haven’t read my books? Check them out here!

Simone Kelly is the CEO of Own Your Power Communications, LLC, an accomplished author, Intuitive Life Coach, and Reiki Master Teacher. Her company is a trusted guide for conscious living, intuitive wisdom, and personal growth. Explore her podcast, blog, and a variety of services, courses, and events. Join her community and mailing list at www.ownyourpower.biz.