Sprint or Steady: Which Writing Pace Fuels Your Creativity?
- Jacquelyn Lee
- Aug 8
- 4 min read
What kind of writer are you? Do you thrive on fast bursts of inspiration, or do you prefer a steadier, more contemplative approach? Here, we’ll look at two distinct writing styles: sprint writing (inspired by NaNoWriMo) and the slow and steady cross-country method. You’ll find practical strategies for making either style work for you, whether you’re a new writer or looking to refine your process. The goal is to help you discover your creative rhythm and hit your word counts, whether in a matter of days, weeks, across a month, or longer.
Writing Sprints: The Power of Fast, Focused Bursts
Writing sprints are short, timed sessions dedicated to output. The most recognizable version of sprint writing, NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month), had global participants in its month-long annual November challenge that recently closed its doors after many eventful years. Writers aimed to write 50,000 words in 30 days, which breaks down to 1,667 words each day. Despite the challenge, people at any typing speed could tackle it with about an hour of effort per day.
Even writers typing as slowly as 25 words per minute can meet the daily target with consistent effort. I've tested this personally during my own sprints and compared my word-per-minute results with authors across different genres. It’s important to note that your pace often depends on your skills, genre, and how familiar you are with your subject matter.
>>>Curious how fast you type? You can check your current WPM here.
>>>You may be interested in what some of your favorite famous authors have targeted writing per day. You can read about that here! To add, you might learn how long it took them to write their projects.
To get started with writing sprints:
Create a focused environment with silent rooms, instrumental music, or dedicated writing apps.
Set a daily word count goal (1,000–2,000 words is a solid range).
Use timers (try the Pomodoro method for precise bursts).
>>> Check out these apps and sites that work like Pomodoro timers:
Track your word count at the beginning and end of each session.
>>>Check out these apps and sites that help you to track your words:
Why sprints work:
They build momentum quickly.
You learn to quiet your inner critic and reach a draft faster.
Community sprints provide motivation and accountability, even in smaller spin-off groups today.
>>>If you have missed the challenges and community feel of NaNoWriMo, check out the AutoCrit Novel 90 Writing Challenge. Or you may enjoy another community that offers a free option similar to NaNoWriMo, which provides events weekly and in-person meetups; Shut Up & Write.
Trade-offs to consider:
Sprinting without breaks can lead to burnout.
Without planning, it’s easy to lose focus mid-way.
Cross-Country Writing: The Long Game
If you’re not fueled by adrenaline, a cross-country approach may suit you. While “cross-country” isn’t a widely recognized writing term, it’s what I like to call my own steady and sustainable process. It draws inspiration from the endurance and pacing of cross-country running. For me, this captures the spirit of consistency and daily progress that supports my creativity and goals.
This means steady progress by showing up consistently without chasing high quotas each day. Focus on building sustainable habits that fit with your real life.
With the cross-country method, you might:
Write at the same time each day. Consistency helps.
Set realistic goals (30 minutes or 500 words per day).
Allow time for reflection and light edits as you go.
Schedule rest days to avoid burnout.
Why this works:
You build healthy habits and reduce stress.
The method offers flexibility to dive deeper into topics or let ideas simmer.
A steadier pace reduces burnout and increases the odds of finishing, even if it takes a while longer.
Finding Your Unique Pace: The Hybrid Approach
Good news: you don’t have to stick with just one style. Many writers blend both approaches. You might sprint on high-energy days and shift to a slower and steadier rhythm during busier times or creative lulls.
Try this to customize your method:
Set a big-picture goal (for example, 10,000 words in a week).
Mix sprint days for momentum with lighter maintenance days.
Track your progress with apps, spreadsheets, or classic journals.
Check in each week. Celebrate milestones, note signs of burnout, and adjust your plan as needed.
I found that my first book grew over a couple of years, developing alongside me. The slower process worked especially well for my nonfiction projects and helped me play to my strengths. Your genre, lifestyle, and talents will shape what feels best for you.
Sprint or steady, there’s no single right pace. Each style offers unique strengths, and the best approach is the one that lets you grow, finish projects, and enjoy the process. Test a sprint. Try a cross-country pace. Or create your own mix. Your writing journey is uniquely yours. So, which pace matches you today?
To visualize: picture a sprinter powering around the track for quick sessions and a thoughtful jogger winding through the woods for the long haul. Maybe your path is a little of both. Let us know what works for you in the comments.
Let’s inspire each other to keep writing!
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