Habits That I Avoid to Be Highly Effective and Efficient in Writing

Irfanulla Shariff
6 min readJun 30, 2024

Achieve Writing Mastery by Steering Clear of These Habits

Achieve Writing Mastery by Steering Clear of These Habits
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Writing is a craft that demands both discipline and creativity. Over the years, I have identified several habits that, if left unchecked, can seriously impede my productivity and the quality of my work. Here are ten habits I avoid to stay highly effective and efficient in my writing, along with strategies on how to avoid them.

1. Procrastination

Why to Avoid: Procrastination is a major barrier to productivity. It can lead to last-minute rushes, increased stress, and lower-quality work. When you procrastinate, you delay the start of your writing, which often results in a hurried effort to meet deadlines. This rush not only affects the quality of your work but also increases anxiety and stress levels, making the writing process less enjoyable.

How to Avoid: Set specific deadlines and break tasks into smaller, manageable chunks. Use productivity tools like task lists or free online apps such as Trello or Asana to stay organized. Create a dedicated writing schedule and stick to it, even if it means setting a timer for focused writing sessions. Establishing a routine helps in building momentum and reducing the urge to procrastinate. Additionally, identifying the reasons behind your procrastination…

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Irfanulla Shariff

Poet, Storyteller, Author, Researcher, Photographer, and Performer. Published my work in American magazines, anthologies & blogs. https://irfanullashariff.com/