Listen to the podcast here. 

The biggest challenge for most writers isn't talent or ideas—it's simply showing up. Ever meant to write but somehow the coffee, inbox, or laundry won instead? You're not alone. Getting your butt in the chair is a universal struggle.

In this episode of the 12 Week Year for Writers podcast, I explore the three major obstacles that keep us from showing up: fear, energy depletion, and what I call the "lizard brain." Rather than beating ourselves up for lacking willpower or discipline (like most of us tend to do), I discuss practical, proven strategies to make it easier and more enjoyable to show up and write.

Fear keeps many writers perpetually stuck in "research mode," avoiding the terrifying blank page. The solution isn't to "man up" but to break projects into baby steps small enough they no longer trigger fear. Finding community—whether through writing groups or mentors—normalizes your experience and provides both emotional support and practical strategies.

For energy struggles, I suggest examining whether your current project truly excites you and scheduling writing sessions as non-negotiable appointments at your peak creative times.

As for the lizard brain's constant search for instant gratification over hard work? Develop a personal "showing up ritual" that bridges the gap between intention and action.

My first showing up ritual as a young professor involved bagels, coffee, and the New York Times before transitioning to writing. Yours might include meditation, journaling, or finding the perfect environment.

Whatever works for you becomes your personal strategy for winning that crucial moment of decision when you're on the knife edge between showing up and doing something else. And in the long turn, the real magic happens when you combine these strategies into a personalized weekly writing routine.

My challenge to you: Listen to the podcast, reflect on what helps you show up, and pick one strategy from this episode to test this week. Your future self (and manuscript) will thank you.