Do you wonder why butt-in-chair doesn’t always work for writers? I mean, in theory, it sounds great, right? You just show up at your tablet or notebook and let the magic fly!
Oh, if only that were true….
Instead, you may find that, while you do show up, sit down, and fire up your laptop, the results of your enforced writing sessions are anything but inspired. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Simply disciplining yourself to commit to a regular writing schedule is great for building the writing habit. But it doesn’t always lead to creativity—or even progress.
Here are some reasons that just putting your butt in your chair may not garner the results you’re hoping for. And some strategies to help you do something about that.
Problem 1: Butt-in-Chair Can Feel Like a Chore (Ugh.)
Why it doesn’t work: After a while, sitting down every day—or even most days—can feel like a repetitive grind. This is especially true when you’re not getting new ideas after showing up so diligently. Creativity can’t always be scheduled.
What to try instead: Don’t just sit there! Involve yourself in activities that are likely to coax those fresh ideas out to play. For instance, you might try doodling scenes from your story or mind-mapping your idea with colorful markers. You could read an article on the topic you’re writing about—or even take a quick walk to gain perspective. You don’t need to produce scads of words every time you put your butt in the chair. Just showing up and courting your creative spirit may serve you better in the long run.
Problem 2: Butt-in-Chair May Overlook Your Creative Rhythm
Why it doesn’t work: If you’ve scheduled your writing for a time that doesn’t align with your natural rhythms, trying to produce good work can feel like pushing a boulder uphill.
What to try instead: If you notice you feel tired as soon as you sit down to write, experiment with writing at different times of the day. You probably already know whether you’re a morning person or a night owl. Take that, and any other self-awareness you have about your biorhythms, into account when deciding when to write.
You might also try to work in shorter blocks. Schedule thirty- or forty-minute sessions during those periods that you know you’re naturally more creative. You may actually find these quick writing bursts can lead to more productive output—and more creative work—than that which you generate during more forced, extended blocks.
Problem 3: Butt-in-Chair Doesn’t Offer You Guidance
Why it doesn’t work: Sitting down to write without a goal—or at least a sense of direction— can leave you feeling lost. In addition to making you wonder if you’ve just wasted all that time, you might also begin to question the value of your project—or, worse, your ability as a writer!
What to try instead: As a warm-up, when you sit down in your writing chair, sketch out a loose plan for the session. You might jot down a few goals for your writing time (small and manageable ones!) or bullet-point a few question you’d like to explore. You could also bring a writing prompt related to your current project to get you started. For example, if you’re writing a memoir, you could do a ten-minute free-write starting with the phrase “I remember.” And, if you have an outline, no matter how loose, keeping it nearby can help you jump right into the writing—which can provide direction and make your session more productive.
Problem 4: Butt-in-Chair Can Lead to Burnout
Why it doesn’t work: Writing for the sake of “showing up” every day can lead to burnout. This is especially true if you’re not seeing progress. “Progress” can mean the number of words you write or how your project is developing. Or (and maybe most importantly), “progress” can refer to how much you’re enjoying your own writing!
What to try instead: Sometimes, we just need to take a break. That could mean—gasp!—leaving your writing alone for a week or two. Or, instead of trying to produce fresh material with a burned-out brain, editing what you have, rather than drafting something new. You might even start a small side project—writing a short story, blog post, article, or interview—to change things up. Shorter writing projects can offer a quick shot of satisfaction that could refresh you and lift you from your burnout.
Problem 5: Butt-in-Chair Doesn’t Factor in Reflection Time
Why butt-in-chair doesn’t always work for writers: Constantly pushing forward, forcing words onto the page without reflecting on how those words are fulfilling your purpose, can keep you spinning in circles—or digging yourself into a rut.
What to try instead: Allow yourself time for “prewriting.” This can consist of jotting down ideas to explore or considering ways to organize your material. You might also try to think metaphorically about what you want to say. This might help you extend the possibilities or scope of your project. You could set aside an hour each week to review what you’ve written, too. That’s a great way to assess what’s working and consider ways to adjust your approach where needed. Or (and this can be more useful than you might think), simply spend some time wool-gathering or daydreaming in the general direction of your project. However you do it, reflection helps keep your writing process alive!
In BIRD BY BIRD, Anne Lamott 
gives great advice about all aspects of the writer’s life. If butt-in-chair isn’t working for you—or you feel stuck or blocked in any other way—and you haven’t read this treasure, now could be your moment!
Why butt-in-chair doesn’t (always) work for writers
Butt-in-chair does work—for some writers, some of the time. But it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. If you’re finding it tough to stay motivated or make progress, try adapting your approach to fit your unique style. Writing is as much about finding what works for you as it is about getting words on the page. Whether your butt is in your chair or you’re running laps around your neighborhood, shouting into your voice-to-text device, find ways to make writing fresh and fun. You and your readers will both reap the benefits.
