Hopefully you’ve set off on your journey with The Artist’s Way and have started to write your Morning Pages. Now you’ve got some questions about them and I’m here to answer with Morning Pages FAQ.
Morning Pages FAQ
1. What are Morning Pages?
Morning Pages are a daily journaling practice popularized by Julia Cameron in her book The Artist’s Way. They involve writing three longhand pages (3 sides of A4 ideally) of stream-of-consciousness thoughts first thing in the morning. The purpose is to clear your mind, unlock creativity, and process emotions.
2. When Should I Write Morning Pages?
Ideally, write them first thing in the morning before distractions take over. This timing helps tap into your subconscious mind and set the tone for your day. However, if mornings are impossible, writing them at another quiet time is better than skipping them altogether.
3. How Do I Write Morning Pages?
- Write three full pages in longhand (handwriting preferred).
- Use stream-of-consciousness writing—no filters, no judgment.
- Write whatever comes to mind, even if it’s mundane (“I don’t know what to write” is acceptable).
- Don’t stop to think or edit; keep the pen moving.
4. What’s the Ideal Time for Morning Pages?
The recommended time is early morning, right after you wake up. This is when your mind is most connected to your subconscious and before the day’s concerns crowd in. Aim to write within the first 30 minutes of waking up.
5. What Kind of Notebook and Pen Should I Use?
Any notebook will work! Preferably an affordable notebook so you don’t feel pressure to make it look “perfect”. Ruled or unruled—whatever feels comfortable to write in.
I now use very affordable notebooks – poster size (18×24 cms), single ruled, with about 90 pages – so I need to use a book a month. If you’re in India, these notebooks (Amazon affiliate link) might work for you.
The best kind of pen is one that feels comfortable, flows easily, and doesn’t distract you from writing. I love my fountain pens and that’s what I use every day.
6. Is Morning Pages Just About Venting?
No, while venting is common, the purpose isn’t solely to offload negative emotions. You can write about:
- Observations
- Gratitude
- Dreams
- Creative ideas
- Problem-solving
Think of Morning Pages as a mental dump of anything clogging your mind.
7. Should I Read Over My Morning Pages?
Not immediately. Julia Cameron suggests not revisiting your Morning Pages for at least 8 weeks (or ever!) to avoid self-editing or self-criticism. Their value lies in the act of writing, not re-reading. I don’t re-read mine. In fact, rather than have approximately 12 years’ worth of writing lying around, I burn or shred these notebooks from time to time.
8. What About Grammar, Spelling, or Structure?
Ignore them completely. This isn’t about perfection or polished writing. It’s raw, unfiltered expression—no grammar police allowed! The whole point of the practice is to write freely and unfiltered, without judgment or perfectionism. Here’s why:
- Stream of Consciousness: Morning Pages are meant to capture your raw thoughts, not polished writing. Overthinking grammar or expression defeats the purpose of the exercise.
- Focus on Flow: Stopping to fix mistakes interrupts the natural flow of ideas. Let your thoughts spill onto the page without hesitation.
- No Right or Wrong: Morning Pages are for you, not an audience. Nobody’s grading or critiquing them, so there’s no need to make them “correct.”
- Mental Clarity Over Perfection: The value comes from releasing mental clutter and finding clarity, not crafting a perfect piece of prose.
Write messily, make spelling errors, and let your handwriting get sloppy—it’s all part of the process!
9. How Long Does It Take to Write Morning Pages?
It depends on your pace, but most people take 20-40 minutes. Write quickly and don’t overthink it. I set a 25 minute timer and write.
10. Can I Type My Morning Pages?
While handwriting is recommended (it’s more connected to the subconscious), typing is fine if it’s more convenient for you. Personally, I always prefer to use paper and pen.
11. What If I Don’t Know What to Write?
Write exactly that: “I don’t know what to write.” Keep your pen moving, and eventually, something will come out.
12. What If I Miss a Day?
No problem! Morning Pages are a supportive tool, not a chore. Just pick up where you left off.
13. Are Morning Pages Only for Creative People?
No! While artists, writers, and creatives often use them to spark ideas, anyone can benefit from the clarity and emotional processing Morning Pages provides.
If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.
♥
𝒞ℴ𝓇𝒾𝓃𝓃ℯ
While I have done the morning pages a few years back when I was struggling, I didn’t know about not-reading the pages immediately. So 8 weeks is the time frame advised before going back and reading the pages. Shredding the old notebooks and diaries is a good idea. I have a big size storage bag filled with them and it will be good to have the empty space.
A recently posted…If we were having coffee…
Ah yes, that’s the idea. Honestly, I don’t read them back at all. It becomes a dump for me and I’m happy to be rid of the ‘garbage’ physically too.