There’s something about winter that makes everything feel a little quieter. The days are shorter, the nights are longer, and it’s tempting to slip into full hibernation mode (especially when it’s cold, gray and snowy outside). But here’s the positive, January is also when the days start getting longer again. Slowly, yes. But it counts!

Winter can feel sluggish, but it can also be a surprisingly good season to focus. The world feels a little slower, the calendar isn’t quite as hectic as December, and cozy routines just hit differently this time of year.

So today I wanted to share a few winter writing tips that help me stay productive, even when the weather is unpredictable, motivation is low, or life gets in the way. These tips are especially helpful if you’re working on a first draft, trying to build a writing habit, or you’re getting back into writing after time off.

And if you’re a reader who’s just curious about what an author’s writing life looks like behind the scenes, welcome! I’m always happy to pull back the curtain a little.

1. Protect the Cozy Morning Hours

If there’s one thing that helps me stay consistent, it’s writing early in the day. Before the distractions pile up. Before errands. Before the world wakes up and starts making demands.

Even 30–45 minutes can be great, but honestly? Even 10–15 minutes makes a difference. Sometimes just popping into the story for a few minutes helps keep everything warm in my mind. It’s like checking in with the characters so they don’t wander off and start causing trouble without me.

And if I’m being honest… I’d rather start my day with words than scroll.

My version of “cozy writing vibes” is simple:

• a glass of water

• my home office

• a candle lit nearby

• and Connie close enough to supervise

2. Lower the Bar, Raise the Consistency

Winter is not the season for perfection.

It’s the season for showing up.

One of the fastest ways to lose momentum is to set big, shiny goals… and then feel discouraged when life (or weather) throws a wrench into everything. This time of year, I try to focus less on giant word counts and more on consistency.

Even small progress counts.
A few paragraphs count.
A page counts.
A writing session that’s more “thinking” than typing still counts.

Small daily progress really does add up and it’s a lot easier to keep going when the goal is realistic.

3. Use Short Writing Sprints

Writing sprints are one of my favorite tools, especially during winter when energy can feel a little unpredictable.

A sprint is simple:

• Set a timer for 15–25 minutes

• Write (or edit) with no interruptions

• Stop when the timer goes off

It keeps things focused and manageable—and it’s also really fun when you do it with other writers. I’ve been participating in Sisters in Crime write-ins, and it’s been such a great way to stay on track. There’s something about showing up at a set time and working alongside others (even virtually) that makes it easier to stay committed.

And the best part? Sprints are easy to fit in, even on chaotic days.

4. Have a “Backup Plan” Writing Session

Winter has a way of laughing at our schedules. One day everything is fine, and the next day Mother Nature drops a foot of snow and suddenly you’re outside shoveling for an hour. Or a winter virus hits the house and everything shifts into survival mode.

That’s why I love having a “backup plan” writing session for those days when my normal routine isn’t possible.

Instead of skipping writing altogether, I’ll do something small, like:

• revise one paragraph

• outline one scene

• edit two pages

• add notes for tomorrow

This keeps the momentum going and prevents that frustrating “I did nothing today” feeling. It’s a gentle way to stay connected to the story even when life gets messy.

5. Romanticize the Season (If That Helps You!)

Okay, I’ll be honest… I don’t personally do much “romanticizing” of winter writing.
I’m more of a sit down, get it done, light the candle for ambiance kind of writer.

But I know a lot of writers love leaning into the cozy winter vibe, and if that’s you, go for it! Sometimes making writing feel like a little seasonal ritual can be a really powerful motivator.

Ideas if you want to lean into it:

• cozy lighting

• a comfort snack

• a writing playlist

• fuzzy socks and a big sweater

There’s no wrong way to do this. If it helps you show up, it’s worth it.

My Winter Writing Must-Haves:

This part is always fun—and yes, Connie insists on being included.

Drink of choice: Water (always nearby!)
Notebook: For quick notes and brainstorming
Timer: For sprints and focus time
Writing buddy: Connie, of course, usually on my chair, but sometimes right on my desk. She was probably asking for a progress report.

 

Winter might be slower, but it’s a powerful time to build momentum. A little focus and consistency now can add up to big progress by spring and you don’t have to hustle to make it happen.

Whether you’re drafting a book, working on a new project, or just trying to get back into the writing habit, I hope these tips help you keep going in a way that feels doable and cozy.

Curious minds want to know:
Are you a winter hibernator… or do you feel motivated to start fresh in January? Let us know in the comments. Happy writing!