Let's Pretend That Writing Is a Habit, Not an Art: Stuff That Helps Me Write

When it comes to finding motivation and inspiration for writing, there are certain quotes that resonate deeply with me. They guide my writing process, encourage me to face creative challenges, and remind me that writing is both an art and a journey. Here are some of my favorite writing quotes that I go to when I need a push or a moment to think. But also below, there is one paragraph from one of my favorite books on writing.

When I sit down to write, my favorite ritual is to whisper a simple line to myself. It’s playful, and it softens the edges of any pressure I feel. This line invites creativity to flow in a way that’s light, fun, graceful, and generous—not forced. I say, “Let’s pretend...” and then let the rest fill itself in: “Let’s pretend we have all the time in the world” or “Let’s pretend I have nowhere to go, nothing to do.” That little phrase is my gateway—it eases me into the writing, reminding me that creativity should feel free and open.

"Sometimes it's enough to write beautifully."

This quote is a simple but deep reminder that just the act of writing can be satisfying. It shows me that the goal isn’t always to rush and get to the end or push for quick results. It’s important to know the difference: writing with urgency—feeling driven by a strong idea or a moment of inspiration—is not the same as writing in a hurry, where quality can be lost. For me, it is freeing to know that there is no “right” or “wrong” way to approach writing. Some days, my words come out fast and easy; other days, they are slow and careful. Both are fine as long as they ring true on the day.

"Face the emptiness and wait."

This quote is powerful because it reminds me of how uncomfortable it can be to not know what to write next. Sitting in front of an empty page and feeling that nothing comes to mind is often the hardest part. But I’ve learned that this pause is important. It allows the bigger, deeper ideas to come out. Even when my subconscious is working in the background and feels hidden, I know it’s still there. My mind sometimes looks for distractions to avoid this feeling of emptiness, but I remind myself that facing this pause is part of creating something real. In these moments, patience is my friend. Waiting for the right words instead of forcing them helps keep what I want to say true and meaningful. It’s not about doing nothing; it’s about trusting that if I give myself space, the words will come.

“Writing Is a Habit, Not an Art"

Excerpt From Everybody Writes Handley, Ann:"We're tempted to think that writing is an art, that only an anointed lucky few can do it well. But that's an excuse—a justification that lets the lazy among us off the hook for being the communication equivalent of a couch potato: flabby, unmotivated, inarticulate. But the truth is that the key to being a better writer is, essentially, to be a more productive one. Or more simply, the key to being a better writer is to write.”