A Day in the Life of a Writer

As my first big deadline approaches for my book with National Geographic, I thought I’d share what a day in my life looks like. Without further ado…

6:55 AM

I wake up without an alarm (typically around 6:30 or 7:00am) and go through my morning routine before looking at my phone. I open up the blackout curtains in our room to let the sunshine stream in (our new house has the most unbelievable natural light) and open up the door. Walker is patiently waiting right outside the bedroom, and he takes his cue to run and jump on the bed. He snuggles next to me as I do my morning pages and journal for about 15 to 20 minutes. This helps ground me, releases anxiety, and focuses my brain for the day ahead. Journaling is the best habit I’ve formed over the last few years and I highly recommend it to everyone, but especially to creatives! I scroll through my phone for a bit after I’m done.

(Try The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron if you’re interested in the benefits of morning pages)

7:49 AM

I let the dog out and get the coffee started. While it’s brewing, I take a shower and get dressed for the day. Comfort is key, but I also like to look somewhat put together. I throw on a cute, matching athleisure set, tinted moisturizer, bronzer, eyebrow gel, mascara and lip gloss. I find that when I look good, I feel good. And when I feel good, I’m more productive.

Once the coffee is ready, I head up to my office.

8:20 AM

I get started with writing and research. I use an app called Forest to stay focused and off my phone - and it’s highly effective! You set a timer and select a plant/tree/shrub to grow in your virtual Forest. If you pick up your phone before the timer goes off, you kill the plant. The more plants you grow, the more coins you get to unlock cooler plants. I don’t know why it works, but it’s the BEST focus app I’ve ever tried. I set my timer for an hour and get to work.

9:45 AM

I take Walker for a walk, about 1.5 miles. Our new neighborhood has the most beautiful trails with panoramic mountain views and it’s a highlight of my day. He loves sniffing around and I love stretching my legs. Total win-win!

10:02 AM

Another cup of coffee.

10:07 AM

I set the Forest app for two hours and get back to work. Typically, I keep light music in the background - think a mix between Taylor Swift and whatever indie-rock they’d play at your favorite local coffee shop.

12:11 PM

Lunch. I make an egg-salad wrap with a side of green grapes and BBQ chips. I treat myself to an episode of Queen Charlotte on Netflix.

12:50 PM

I really want to watch another episode….

12:53 PM

I successfully resist watching another episode and head back upstairs to my office. I set my Forest app for another two hours and get in the grove.

1:21 PM

… I need a pickup. From the kitchen I grab a Zoa Energy drink, my new obsession. I like the strawberry/watermelon flavor. I go back to writing.

3:29 PM

My butt and my back are killing me so I take a 30-minute yoga class via Lululemon’s Studio Mirror app. It feels incredible and exactly what I need to get through my afternoon slump.

4:10 PM

Back upstairs to finish up my work day. I write for another two hours. My husband comes home and I’m anxious to finish up - it’s Friday and I’m ready for the weekend!

6:43 PM

Phew - I made it! I’m enjoying a crisp Mexican lager at one of our favorite new breweries, Four Noses Brewing Company with Berto. It’s a gorgeous sunny evening in beautiful Colorado and I’m happy with the progress I made today. Cheers!