How I Write

For Stephen, writing is a thrilling and unpredictable journey. With no set process, each book is an adventure waiting to unfold. Whether it's through extensive outlining or letting the story unfold organically, Stephen brings his characters and worlds to life with a touch of mystery and imagination.

But it's not just the writing process that keeps Stephen on his toes. In order to keep his creative spark alive, he makes sure to take time off for rest and relaxation, hitting the gym for a workout at least five times a week. His daily routine is a balance of staying productive and giving his mind a break. After reading and responding to emails, checking his blog comments, and catching up on the news, Stephen switches gears and dives into his writing, editing what he wrote the day before and adding to it.

Writing a book is like exploring uncharted territory. Each word is a step forward, creating a map as he goes, with the end only in sight when he reaches the ocean. It's this excitement and unpredictability that makes Stephen's writing what it is.

//stephenhunt.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/ncafespaceexplorer.jpg
  • Clean Desk

    A clean and organized workspace is a crucial aspect of productivity and creativity, and it's a principle that Stephen Hunt takes very seriously. With a strict clean desk policy, Stephen ensures that his work area is free of clutter and distractions, allowing him to focus on his writing and bring his stories to life.

  • Defined Working Times

    Whether it's a set schedule for writing, editing, or other tasks, having a defined structure helps Stephen stay focused and avoid distractions. By dividing his time into designated blocks, he can give his full attention to each task and avoid feeling overwhelmed or bogged down.

  • No Distractions

    Whether it's turning off notifications on his devices, working in a quiet location, or using noise-cancelling headphones, Stephen takes a proactive approach to avoiding distractions. He also sets clear boundaries with friends and family, communicating his need for focused work time and avoiding interruptions.

My Tools

My Most Important Tools

Alienware PC

For Writing and Editing

Whether I am creating detailed outlines, drafting action-packed scenes, or fine-tuning dialogue, my Alienware PC provides the power and speed I need to take my writing to the next level. Sadly, it's also a terrible distraction to my writing, too. Damn you, Twitter and Stellaris.

Books

Writing Needs Some Reading

I have not one but two libraries - one in my home office, and a second bigger affair to house my own far too large book collection. I also have to compete with my family's pottery studio works for shelf space. Grrrrrrr.

Pen and Paper

Always Useful

When I'm on the go, I prefer to jot down my ideas and notes with a pen and paper. This allows me to capture my thoughts quickly and easily, no matter where I am. I find that the act of physically writing by hand helps to stimulate my creativity and keeps my mind engaged with the writing process. My small droid helper is often on hand to offer advice - as well as constantly threatening a robot revolution.

I am the author of a few novels for younger readers. It wasn't done with intention.

Stephen Hunt

Main Working Principles

The Most Important Steps To Follow

Write A Lot

It is helpful to break down larger writing projects into smaller, more manageable tasks and set achievable goals. You may find that a change of scenery can help boost creativity and productivity. Whether it's working in a coffee shop, a library, or simply moving to a different room in their home, a change of environment can help jumpstart the creative process and allow the words to flow.

Read A Lot

As a genre author, it's important to stay familiar with the latest trends and conventions in your field, as well as to read widely within your genre to see what others are doing and to gain inspiration. Non-fiction can also set the old noggin jogging.

Spread Your Ideas

Social media is a great way to get the word out to readers but it is also a terrible time suck. There's more social media-based author help groups than you can shake a stick at, luckily, if a little peer networking and help is what you fancy.