Writing with a Neurodivergent, Spicy Brain: How to Stay Consistent and Inspired by Your Novel
Writing a novel is challenging for anyone, but for those of us with neurodivergent "spicy brains"—whether that means ADHD, autism, or any other cognitive difference—the traditional approach to writing can feel even more daunting. The pressures of consistency, self-discipline, and focus often clash with the realities of how our brains work, making the journey to completing a novel feel overwhelming. But here’s the good news: you can write your novel, and you can do it in a way that works with your unique brain.
Let’s talk about how you can harness your creative power, work with your brain (not against it), and finish your novel with confidence and joy.
1. Know Thyself: Understanding Your Writing Patterns
The first step in writing with a neurodivergent brain is understanding how you work best. You might have been told that writing every day at the same time is the only way to be successful, but this one-size-fits-all advice often doesn't take neurodivergence into account.
Ask yourself:
Are you more creative at night, or do ideas flow better in the morning?
Do you thrive in bursts of intense focus, followed by rest?
What environments or routines help you get into "the zone"?
Tip: Try tracking your writing sessions over the course of a few weeks to see when and where you feel the most productive. Use this data to build a customized routine that aligns with your natural rhythms rather than forcing yourself into a rigid schedule.
2. Break it Down: Small Goals, Big Wins
Many neurodivergent individuals struggle with starting tasks because they feel too big or overwhelming. That’s why breaking down your novel into bite-sized chunks can be a game changer. Instead of focusing on writing an entire chapter, start with a scene. If that feels too much, start with a paragraph or even a sentence.
Writing small amounts consistently adds up faster than you'd think. And each completed section will give you a sense of accomplishment that fuels your momentum.
Tip: Use a project management tool like Trello, or even a simple notebook, to map out these small tasks and track your progress.
3. Set a Timer: The Power of Time-Blocking
For those of us who get easily distracted or find it hard to start a task, the Pomodoro technique (working in 25-minute bursts followed by a short break) can be a lifesaver. These time-blocking techniques help you trick your brain into starting, knowing that the effort doesn’t have to be sustained for hours on end.
This can help break the cycle of procrastination and perfectionism. When you set a timer, the pressure is off to be perfect—you just need to write for those 25 minutes.
Tip: If traditional Pomodoro feels too long or short, experiment with different time increments. Some people find 10-minute sprints with 5-minute breaks more effective.
4. Find Your Hyperfocus Zones
Hyperfocus, one of the gifts of many neurodivergent people, can be your best friend if you learn how to tap into it. When you’re in a state of hyperfocus, hours can pass like minutes, and the creative ideas seem to flow endlessly.
To encourage hyperfocus, create an environment that minimizes distractions and allows you to dive deeply into your work. This might mean turning off notifications, using noise-canceling headphones, or creating a dedicated writing space.
Tip: Find "focus foods" like tea or snacks that can help signal your brain that it’s time to write.
5. Embrace Distraction... Productively
While distractions can be frustrating, there’s a way to channel them productively. Keep a notepad or app nearby to capture stray thoughts or ideas that come up while writing. Instead of stopping your writing session to act on them, jot them down and revisit them later.
Sometimes, it’s the ideas that come up during these "distracted" moments that add richness and depth to your novel.
Tip: Set aside specific times for those distractions—whether it’s researching something for your story or answering emails—so that you don’t feel the need to act on them while writing.
6. Rewards, Not Punishments: Celebrate the Wins
Positive reinforcement can be incredibly powerful. If writing feels like a constant struggle, it’s easy to fall into a negative mindset where every distraction or missed goal feels like failure. Instead, celebrate the small wins.
Finished writing for 10 minutes? Awesome! Wrote 100 words? Fantastic! Reward yourself with something that feels like a treat—whether it’s a snack, a quick break, or a few minutes of your favorite hobby.
Tip: Build rewards into your routine, so you have something to look forward to every time you hit a writing milestone.
7. Be Gentle with Yourself
Neurodivergent writers often carry the weight of unrealistic expectations, especially when comparing themselves to others. Remember that your writing process is yours, and it doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s.
There will be days when you don't write, and that’s okay. The important thing is to return to the page when you're ready, knowing that you’re not behind—you’re just on your own path.
Tip: Incorporate mindfulness or grounding techniques before writing sessions to help you feel centered and present.
8. Use Tools and Resources to Support Your Process
There are so many tools available that can help neurodivergent writers stay organized and motivated. From writing software that tracks your word count to apps that block distractions, find what works for you and lean on those resources.
Tools like Scrivener or Dabble are great for keeping your story organized, while focus apps like Forest or Freedom can help minimize distractions.
Tip: Explore different writing communities, too! Being part of a supportive group of writers can help you stay motivated and offer accountability.
Your spicy brain is not a barrier to your creativity; it’s the source of it.
Writing a novel with a neurodivergent brain isn’t about forcing yourself to fit into a neurotypical mold. It’s about embracing your unique ways of thinking and creating systems that work for you. By breaking your tasks into small, manageable steps, working with your natural rhythms, and celebrating each win, you can build a sustainable writing practice that feels good and keeps you moving forward.
Your spicy brain is not a barrier to your creativity; it’s the source of it. Lean into it, trust your process, and your novel will come to life in ways that are deeply authentic and uniquely you.