How to Make Making Webcomics a Habit

By Izzy “Strontium” Hall

How do you turn working on your webcomic into a sustainable, long-term practice?

Most webcomics take years to complete. Creating good working processes for your webcomic will help you stick with it for the long haul. That’s because good habits create inroads in your brain that make completing them rewarding on their own.

Here are some simple tips for comic creators on fostering webcomic-making habits:

Tip #1: Pick a time

Illustration of a figure writing in pen on a yellow page as a wall clock looms overhead, seen from above
Habits are all about structure. One of the easiest ways to create structure is to work on comics at the same day and time. Schedule time for working on your webcomic for when you can focus and be productive.

Tip #2: Get the ball rolling

Illustration of a figure holding a pencil in one hand and resting their other hand on an enormous sphere
You’ve set aside time, but how do you actually begin a webcomic work session? To get your creative juices following, start with something simple. Sit down at your computer or desk, grab your stylus or pencil and do a few warm-up sketches. By getting the ball rolling, your creative engine will naturally pick up speed.

Tip #3: Make it special

Illustration of a smiling figure wearing headphones while sitting at a desk with a pen, paper and mug
How do you turn working on webcomics into something to look forward to? By making it special. Grab your favorite snack or drink to have while working. Save the newest episode of your favorite podcast or a new single from your favorite artist to listen to in the background. Delay gratification for when you’re drawing your comic, and you’ll look forward to each session that much more.

Tip #4: Treat yourself

Illustration of a glasses-wearing figure reading a book on a couch, with a sleeping cat at their feet
It’s time for a reward! Get something to eat, play a game, watch TV, chat with a friend, grab dessert, or whatever you enjoy doing. How does treating yourself build habits? By following up a desired behavior with a reward, you trick your brain into making a positive association—working on comic equals treats—that is naturally motivating.

Tip #5: Find what works for you

Illustration of a figure dramatically thrusting a pen towards the sky, seen from above
What if you find it really hard to make habits? Some people are wired for habits, and some just aren’t. If you work better in the spur of the moment, then focus on harnessing that energy for making comics. Discover your own strengths and tendencies and use those to develop a personalized long-term comic-making strategy.

Izzy “Strontium” Hall is a cartoonist, writer and creator of Heroes of Thantopolis. Follow them on tumblr or Bluesky.