If you’re looking for a new writing routine in 2024, writing sprints may be the exercise for you.
What are Writing Sprints?
A writing sprint is a quick writing session of between 5 and 30 minutes. The goal is to write as many words as possible, without stopping to edit or re-read what has been written. This tool can be useful if you’re struggling with writer’s block or a tendency for perfectionism that is stalling your writing practice.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Writing Sprint:
- Know your goals: Are you aiming to hit a specific word count? Are you working on a particular scene from a work-in-progress? By setting smaller and more achievable goals, it can bring more inspiration than sitting down at the table with the goal to write a whole novel.
- Set a timer or use a video: Set an alarm to signal the end of each block of time or use a video which blocks out the time for you (more on that below!).
- Focus on completion, not perfection: The goal is to get the words out, rather than worry about the final product. There will be plenty of time to go back and edit, but you can’t edit a blank piece of paper!
The Write for Harlequin Writing Sprint:
Over HEA Writing Week last November, we held a writing sprint that gathered writers on Zoom to write together. It was so much fun that we’ve created a resource that you can use whenever you want to sit down and write.
Below you can find our writing sprint video with three 10-minute sprints for you to put pen to paper on your current project.
We hope you find this resource helpful and happy writing!
