How to Stay Motivated When Writing Your First Draft: 10 Proven Strategies for Writers
Every novelist knows the feeling. The blank page is behind you, but the finish line still feels far away. Maybe you’re stuck in the “messy middle,” doubting your story, or just too busy to write as often as you’d hoped.
I’m Brandon Rohrbaugh, published author, writing coach, and course creator. I’ve helped hundreds of writers cross that finish line—and I promise, you can too. Staying motivated is a skill you can learn and strengthen, just like storytelling itself.
Here are my top 10 strategies (and a few encouraging truths) to help you keep going, page after page, until you finally write “The End.”
1. Remember Your Why
Before you get lost in word counts or plot twists, take a moment to reconnect with your original reason for writing.
Is it to tell a story that matters to you?
To prove to yourself you can do it?
To inspire your kids, friends, or even just your future self?
Write down your “why” and keep it visible at your writing desk. On tough days, a quick glance can make all the difference.
2. Set Manageable Daily Goals
Big dreams are built on small, steady steps.
Don’t aim for 5,000 words if you’re overwhelmed—try 200 or 300 a day.
Track your progress with a simple Daily Writing Tracker.
Pro Tip: Consistency beats intensity. Even 10 minutes a day keeps your story moving forward.
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3. Create a Writing Routine
Habits make motivation almost automatic.
Pick a regular time (morning, lunch break, before bed).
Create a pre-writing ritual (favorite music, a cup of tea, lighting a candle).
Keep your writing tools easily accessible.
Your brain loves routine—once it expects “writing time,” it’ll be easier to start.
4. Celebrate Small Wins
Did you finish a tricky scene? Hit a weekly word count?
Celebrate!
Mark milestones on your calendar.
Treat yourself to something small (a favorite snack, a walk, a new book).
Share your progress with a friend or on social media for extra encouragement.
5. Find Your Writing Community
Writing can feel lonely, but it doesn’t have to be.
Join a local writers’ group, Facebook community, or Discord server.
Pair up with a writing buddy for weekly check-ins.
Participate in challenges (like NaNoWriMo) for a shared sense of momentum.
Need a friendly community? Subscribe to my newsletter for invites to free online writing sprints and groups.
6. Make It Visual
Seeing your progress can be a huge motivator!
Use a wall calendar to cross off each writing day.
Build a word count chart or progress bar (there are lots of free templates online).
Create a vision board for your book’s setting, characters, and themes.
7. Embrace the Messy Middle
Every writer hits a wall—especially around the halfway point.
Remember: Doubt is normal. Even bestselling authors feel it!
Don’t go back and edit—just keep moving forward.
When stuck, skip ahead to a scene you’re excited about.
Tip: Reread your opening pages to remember how far you’ve come.
8. Reward Yourself
Bribe yourself!
Plan bigger rewards for major milestones (first draft complete, 25k words, etc.).
Let friends or family “deliver” your reward when you hit your goal—it adds accountability and fun.
9. Use Prompts and Tools
If you lose steam, try a prompt or new approach:
Freewrite a scene using one of my top 25 prompts.
Interview your character or write a letter from them to you.
Switch writing tools—try dictation, handwriting, or a new writing app.
10. Forgive Yourself—and Keep Going
You will miss a day. Or five. Life happens.
Forgive yourself quickly and restart as soon as you can.
Progress, not perfection, is the only goal for a first draft.
Every page is one page closer to “The End.”
Bonus: My Personal Motivation Hack
Whenever I felt like quitting my first novel, I wrote a quick “Dear Future Reader” note to remind myself who I was writing for—even if it was just for me.
Try it:
“Dear Future Reader, I wrote this story for you because…”
Stick it in your writing space. Instant motivation boost!
Related Resources
[How to Write a Novel for Beginners: The Complete Step-by-Step Guide]
30-Day First Novel Challenge Course—Get Support, Tools, and Community!
Conclusion
Staying motivated during your first draft isn’t about superhuman discipline—it’s about building habits, forgiving setbacks, and finding the joy in your own creativity.
What’s your favorite way to stay motivated when writing? Drop a comment below, or connect with me [here]—I’d love to hear your story!
Ready for your next step? [Download my free toolkit] or [join the challenge] and finish your novel—one page at a time.
You’ve got this! The story is yours to finish.
Brandon Rohrbaugh | Author, Writing, and Your Biggest Cheerleader
