Goodreads asked Addison Russell:

How do you get inspired to write?

Addison Russell Once started, inspiration to write my debut novel was never in short supply. Characters yelled at me in my head, and the story emerged through my fingertips with little encouragement. Now, half way through completing my second novel, the words seems slower and harder to grasp. They bubble when I am in the zone, but sometimes when time is elusive and in short supply, inspiration fades into nothingness.
What does the zone look, feel and smell like?
It is a quiet space, where aromatherapy oils are chosen to suit my mood of the day. Not a morning person, my best writing usually occurs after lunch until late afternoon. Sometimes music (classical, as words distract me), will be a backdrop but only when the words are being stubborn. Seeing outdoors with an abundance of light and greenery is important. Cups of tea are essential, sometimes with sugar, especially at particular times of the month. The chosen tea cup, an unique one, given to me by a much-loved girlfriend. A desk that has meaningful trinkets scattered around, reminding me of special times, people and places. Finally; solitude with uninterrupted time.
Routines and rituals work for me. However, when procrastination is winning, it can be as simple as my husband handing me a cup to tea, pushing me gently toward my “Hen Den”, smiling and saying, “It’s time to write”.
As he shuts the door firmly behind me, I am reminded of the old Nike saying, “Just Do It.”

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