Write More Music: Use This Weekly Songwriting Exercise

A practical method to keep your songwriting flowing

Whether you're new to songwriting or have dozens of tracks under your belt, you've probably been there: the urge to create is strong, but the inspiration just isn’t showing up. You stare at a blank page, a quiet DAW session, or your instrument—unsure of where to begin. That’s why building regular habits is key to keeping your creativity alive, even when motivation is low.

Here’s a simple but powerful exercise you can use every week to stay in motion.

The Exercise: Write a Song in 30 Minutes – Every Week

The goal isn’t to write a masterpiece. The goal is to write. To flex your songwriting muscle. To replace pressure with process and build creative momentum.

Here’s how it works:

1. Set a 30-Minute Timer

Give yourself a clear time limit. It boosts focus. Turn off notifications and find a quiet place where you can work uninterrupted.

2. Pick a Creative Constraint

A creative constraint (also called a prompt or “limitation”) helps guide your ideas. Some examples:

• Only write in a minor key
• Use just three chords
• Write based on an image or a headline
• Write a lyric as a dialogue between two people

You can also create a list of constraints and pick one at random each week.

3. Write Without Editing

Let go of perfectionism. Allow the ideas to flow without stopping to fix or polish. You can always revise later. This step is about moving forward, not refining.

4. Listen and Reflect

Once the 30 minutes are up, listen to what you’ve created. It could be a lyric, a melody, a chord progression, or even a rough full song. Take a few notes: What worked? What do you want to explore next time?

Why Does This Work?

This exercise removes the pressure to be brilliant and builds a rhythm of consistent practice. By writing regularly, you improve both your creative instincts and technical skills. You become a better songwriter simply by showing up and doing the work.

Make It a Weekly Ritual

Use it as a creative Sunday session, part of a songwriting group, or a warm-up before studio time. The point is to make it a habit—something you do because you’re a songwriter, not because you’re waiting for inspiration.

Conclusion:
Great songs aren’t always born from big moments—they often come from steady work and small ideas. This weekly exercise is a simple tool to keep your creative energy alive. Try it for four weeks and see where it takes you.

Want more tips on songwriting and creative routines? Stay tuned to the blog.