How to Keep Your Writing Hot During the Summer Months

Ah, summer! The season of sunshine, beach trips, barbecues and… oh yeah, trying to squeeze in some writing. Because, let’s be honest, summer has a way of making everything feel more relaxed—sometimes a little too relaxed. I’ve definitely found myself lying on the grass, sunglasses on, thinking, “Maybe I’ll write later,” only to get distracted by the ice cream truck or a particularly interesting cloud formation.

But don’t let the sunny days derail your writing goals! With a little planning (and maybe a splash of humour), you can stay productive without missing out on all the outdoor fun. Here are my best tips for keeping your writing hot all summer long.

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1. Set Goals That Won’t Make You Cringe

Summer is all about chill vibes, but that doesn’t mean you should toss your goals out the window. I like to set small, achievable targets—like hitting 500 words a day or finishing one scene a week. Nothing too crazy, but enough to keep you feeling like a writer. Plus, using a calendar or a handy app to track progress feels kinda like giving yourself a high-five every time you hit a milestone. Trust me, those little wins add up.

2. Make a Routine—or Pretend You Have One

I know, I know—routine can seem boring. But even a loose habit can work wonders. Maybe it’s writing during your morning coffee, over lunch or after dinner. Even if your schedule’s all over the place (hello, summer vacations and spontaneous pool days), having a dedicated time signals to your brain, “Hey, it’s writing o’clock.” My personal tip? I like to set a tiny, fun ritual—like lighting a candle or playing a specific playlist—before I start writing. It’s my “go” signal, and it instantly puts me in the right mindset. Plus, it makes the whole process feel a bit more special, even if I only have 15 minutes.

3. Find Your Summer Inspiration Spots

Change of scenery is an underrated secret weapon. I’ve taken my notebook to the park, my backyard, even the beach—sometimes I end up scribbling more in the fresh air than I do at my desk. The outdoors gives your brain a little wake-up call, and who knows? Maybe a seagull or a squirrel will inspire your next plot twist. Play around with different spots until you find where your creative juices really flow.

4. Use Summer for Planning, Not Just Writing

When the words slow down, don’t stress. Summer’s a perfect time to brainstorm, outline or research. When I take my notebook outside, it's usually just to jot down ideas—no pressure, no rush. Planning ahead makes it way easier to dive back into writing when you’re ready. Plus, it’s kind of relaxing to daydream about your story while sipping a cold drink.

5. Keep Distractions at Bay (Goodbye, Social Media!)

Summer activities can be tempting—hello, ice cream, pools and endless Pinterest scrolling. To stay focused, try turning off notifications during your writing sessions or using apps that block social media temporarily. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself when you’re not caught in an endless scroll while your story waits patiently.

6. Read Like It’s Your Summer Job

Reading is the ultimate fuel for writers. I make it a summer tradition to pick up new books—whether it’s a novel, poetry or a nonfiction gem. It keeps my creative engine running and helps me pick up new techniques or voice styles. Plus, discovering fresh authors is like finding new friends—always exciting. So, make a summer reading list and dive in!

7. Take Breaks and Reboot

Don’t forget: even writers need to recharge. Go for walks, swim or just lounge in the sun. Sometimes, stepping away from your desk (or hammock) leads to the best ideas. I’ve had moments where a quick swim or a nap totally rewired my brain—so don’t feel guilty about taking that well-deserved breather.

8. Join a Writer's Club (or Start Your Own)

Writing doesn’t have to be a solo sport. Find a local or online writing group, attend workshops or even plan a solo writing retreat (yes, those are a thing!). Connecting with other writers keeps you motivated and accountable. Plus, there’s nothing like sharing your progress and getting feedback from people who really get it. And, if you’re feeling brave, why not host your own mini-retreat—just you, your notebook, and a lot of coffee?

9. Celebrate Your Wins (No Matter How Small)

Finished that tricky chapter? Woohoo! Hit your weekly goal? Cheers! Treat yourself to something nice—an ice cream, a new book or a lazy afternoon. Celebrating your progress keeps you motivated and makes writing feel like a fun reward, not a chore.

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Summer’s a fantastic time to soak up the sun and new experiences. With a little bit of planning (and a lot of ice cream), you can keep your writing sizzling while still enjoying all the season has to offer. Remember, balance is everything—so don’t forget to relax and have fun too.

And hey, if you ever need help polishing that draft or just want someone to cheer you on, that’s what I’m here for! Drop me a line, and let’s make your summer writing goals happen.