Sometimes what we need to keep us inspired…or at least to keep us writing…is a reward system. It’s just that simple.

Today, ask yourself what reward would keep you motivate, if not inspired—or possibly both! When you’ve met your word count for the day, or written for the allotted amount of time, would you like to allow yourself the guilty pleasure of a bowl of ice cream, a candy bar or a soak in the bathtub?  Or do you want to take good care of yourself with a yoga class, a long walk or a chance to site and read a good book?

Here’s how author Jonathan Maberry rewarded himself:

“I started out with a buck every time I met my daily word count, but that increased as my writing income increased. I still do it, even though now I only write books that my agent has already sold. It still works, too.”

When Jonathan’s jar was filled, he would take his wife on vacation!

Now, Jonathan also implemented a punishment system. If he didn’t meet his daily word quota, he removed a dollar from the jar. For some, the threat of punishment is motivational (and inspiring) as well.