I’m sure I’m not alone when I say that writing (or even existing) in a world filled with smartphones, TVs, and AI is a challenge. It’s a struggle of mine that continues to hinder my progress on my first novel draft. 

Discipline and focus feel like relics of the past. 

 Between my full-time job and my daily workout, it’s all too easy to melt into the couch afterward. At least I’m getting my movement in… right? 

Let’s face it, it doesn’t matter how old you are. Staring at a screen seems much more appealing after an 8-hour workday, especially when almost 2 hours of that day is spent commuting to work. 

But, how fulfilled do you feel after? 

If you’re anything like me, you feel awful. Yes, it’s fun in the moment to lose yourself in the abyss of your screen, but what are you getting out of it? Another wasted few hours that could’ve been directed at another task. 

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Here’s how I try to combat it (and no, I’m not perfect at it, but hey, at least I try): 

• Change right away: If you’re struggling to find time to work out, put your workout clothes on right when you get home. When you’re dressed and ready to go, there’s no ifs, ands, or buts—you’re working out. 
• Set the mood: As a writer, I can’t just sit down and write right away—I need to get in the mood. Go on YouTube and find a cozy background for your TV. My go-to is a seasonal jazz mix (today, it’s a Christmas-themed snowy wonderland). 
• Make it cozy: Fix yourself a cozy beverage. I love peppermint tea, or if it’s earlier in the day, there’s no doubt I’m sipping on a scrumptious latte. 
• Declutter your space: No matter what you’re doing, it can be difficult to accomplish anything in a space that makes your mind feel like a jumbled mess. You may not feel like cleaning up in the moment, but your future self will thank you. 
• Meal prep: When you take 1 day out of the week (I choose Sundays) to cook/prep your meals, it gives you so much more time during the week so you can focus on yourself. Instead of cooking something every night, it’s all done in one day. That’s 1-2 hours each day during the week that’s given back to me to focus on my writing (1-2 hours given back to you to focus on your hobby!)

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Now, like I said, I’m not a pro at this, but when I implement these small things, it makes it so much easier for me to focus on what’s actually helping me grow as a person instead of losing myself in my screen. 

As my interests evolve, I find myself gravitating toward finding something to better my physical health (Pilates and running are my favorites) as well as finding something to fulfill my passion (writing). Find something that gets you excited each day, something you look forward to each day. 

Whatever you choose, allow it to pulsate through you and beat your heart like a metronome that won’t stop. And if you can’t incorporate it daily, I guarantee you can at least fit it into your week.

The world may be trying to distract us with technology, and yes, technology is a beautiful thing, but it’s not the most important thing. It’s never going to help us sprout into who we are destined to be.

You’ll never know what could blossom unless you give it a try.

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