Trying Julia Quinn's Writing Routine: A Calming Editing Experience

As a writer and editor, I’m always on the lookout for new techniques to improve my workflow. Recently, I decided to try Julia Quinn's writing routine, especially her habit of working with classical music playing in the background. While Quinn is known for writing to this backdrop, I decided to apply it to my editing process. I took out a printed manual I had been working on and settled in to see how this approach could enhance my focus.

Setting the Scene

I played a playlist of classical music from YouTube, which included gentle nature sounds like birds chirping and soft water streams to give me the sensation of being outdoors. The combination of calming music and nature sounds immediately put me in a relaxed state, perfect for tackling the often tedious process of editing. I dimmed the lights slightly, brewed a cup of tea, and opened up the printed pages of my manual, pen in hand, ready to make revisions.

The Editing Process

Editing can sometimes feel overwhelming—requiring meticulous attention to detail and a slower pace than writing. However, with the soothing classical music playing in the background, I found the process more enjoyable. The steady rhythm of the melodies helped me stay focused on the task, allowing me to work through each section of the manual without feeling rushed.

With my red pen, I combed through the pages, marking up areas that needed refinement. The peaceful atmosphere gave me the patience to slow down and really think through each edit. I found myself catching small errors, improving the flow of the text, and making thoughtful adjustments that I might have overlooked otherwise. The tactile act of working on a printed document, combined with the music, made the editing feel less like a chore and more like a rewarding part of the creative process.

Reflection and Moving Forward

One of the greatest takeaways from trying this routine was the value of stepping back and reflecting on my work. Once I had finished a section, I continued listening to the music while reviewing the changes I had made. The relaxing atmosphere allowed me to see the big picture, ensuring that the manual flowed smoothly from one section to the next.

Julia Quinn’s routine, particularly the element of working with classical music, brought a sense of calm to my editing process that I hadn't experienced before. The music helped me stay immersed in the task at hand while encouraging a slower, more thoughtful approach to editing. Instead of racing toward the finish line, I allowed myself to be fully present in the work, which ultimately led to a more polished result.

Final Thoughts

Adopting Julia Quinn's writing routine for my editing sessions was a surprisingly productive and enjoyable experience. The combination of classical music and nature sounds created a serene environment that enhanced my focus and attention to detail. Whether you're editing or writing, trying out this routine might just add a layer of calm and clarity to your work.