When you think of George R.R. Martin, the first thing that probably comes to mind is Game of Thrones. His epic fantasy saga, A Song of Ice and Fire, has captured imaginations around the globe, sparking television adaptations, fan theories, and heated debates about who should sit on the Iron Throne. But behind this sprawling, complex universe lies something surprisingly simple: the curious writing habit of George R.R. Martin.
In an age dominated by technology, AI tools, and cloud-based word processors, Martin continues to write on a decades-old DOS computer using WordStar 4.0, a word processor from the 1980s. While this habit might sound quirky—or even inconvenient—it offers a fascinating lens into minimalism, focus, and the deeper meaning of success in a world that constantly tells us “newer is better.”
The Habit of George R.R. Martin
Let’s start with the habit itself. Martin has openly shared in interviews that he writes all of his fiction on a computer that many would call “archaic.” It doesn’t connect to the internet. It doesn’t have pop-up notifications, colorful toolbars, or sophisticated formatting features. It’s just a black screen with green text. That’s it.
At first glance, this might seem eccentric. Why would one of the most successful fantasy authors alive choose to limit himself with such outdated technology? But therein lies the genius of the habit of George R.R. Martin: simplicity eliminates distraction.
By removing the noise of the modern digital world—emails, social media, notifications, endless formatting options—Martin creates a mental environment where the only thing that matters is the story. For him, writing isn’t about flashy software or perfect formatting. It’s about immersing himself in the world of Westeros, word by word, sentence by sentence.
Minimalism in a Noisy World
Minimalism often gets misunderstood. People think it’s about owning fewer things, painting your walls white, or decluttering your closet. But at its core, minimalism is about focus. It’s the art of stripping away everything that doesn’t matter so you can fully embrace what does.
That’s exactly what the habit of George R.R. Martin embodies. His writing tool isn’t sleek or modern—it’s minimalistic. There’s no spell check to second-guess him, no red squiggly lines distracting his flow. The computer simply provides him with a blank canvas, free from noise.
In a world where we’re constantly bombarded with alerts, feeds, and endless choices, minimalism is not just a lifestyle—it’s a survival skill. And Martin’s habit is a reminder that sometimes, success comes not from having more, but from embracing less.
What His Habit Teaches Us About Success
Success is often framed as a product of hustle, innovation, or using the latest tools. But George R.R. Martin shows us that success can also come from consistency, authenticity, and focus.
- Consistency Beats Complexity
Martin’s old-school writing setup isn’t about nostalgia. It’s about consistency. By sticking to the same tool for decades, he built a creative rhythm that allowed him to produce monumental works. The lesson here: you don’t need fancy apps or constant upgrades—you just need a process you can trust. - Authenticity Builds Legacy
Many writers chase trends, whether in technology or storytelling. But Martin sticks to what feels authentic to him. His choice of tool reflects his belief that storytelling is about substance, not style. That authenticity bleeds into his writing, giving us characters and worlds that feel real. - Focus Is the Real Superpower
In today’s distracted world, focus is rare. Martin has built a habit that protects his focus. And maybe that’s why he’s able to craft such intricate plots, weaving together dozens of storylines without losing track. Success, in many cases, isn’t about working harder but about working with fewer distractions.
The Curiosity of Creative Habits
If you look at other great writers, you’ll find equally curious habits. Ernest Hemingway liked to write standing up. Maya Angelou often rented a hotel room to work in solitude. Haruki Murakami treats his writing routine like marathon training, waking up at 4 a.m. and following strict discipline.
The habit of George R.R. Martin fits right into this tradition of unusual yet deeply effective practices. These habits may look strange from the outside, but they serve a critical purpose: they create the right mental and physical environment for creativity to flourish.
It’s a powerful reminder that the tools we choose matter less than the consistency and focus they help us build.
Minimalism as a Path to Creativity
What if Martin’s outdated computer is more than just a quirky habit? What if it’s a metaphor for creativity itself?
Creativity thrives in constraints. Too many options can paralyze us. Too much noise drowns out our best ideas. By stripping away excess, minimalism gives creativity room to breathe.
Martin’s WordStar 4.0 setup is a perfect example. By constraining his writing environment, he frees his imagination. He doesn’t need flashy fonts or AI suggestions. All he needs is a blank screen and his own voice.
For anyone struggling with focus, procrastination, or creative block, there’s a lesson here: simplify your tools, your environment, and your expectations. Minimalism isn’t about less for the sake of less—it’s about less for the sake of more meaningful work.
Applying Martin’s Habit to Your Own Life
You don’t need to dust off an old DOS computer to follow the habit of George R.R. Martin. But you can apply the principles behind his practice:
- Eliminate distractions: Try writing offline or using minimalist apps that block notifications.
- Find your tool and stick to it: Whether it’s pen and paper, a laptop, or a specific app, consistency builds creative flow.
- Create constraints: Give yourself boundaries—time limits, word counts, or simple environments—that force focus.
- Embrace simplicity: Don’t get caught up in tools and aesthetics. Focus on the substance of your work.
Success, after all, isn’t about the fanciest setup. It’s about the work you produce with what you have.
The Bigger Picture: Minimalism and Success
The habit of George R.R. Martin is more than just an odd writing quirk. It’s a statement about what really matters. In a society obsessed with speed, convenience, and shiny new technology, Martin reminds us that success often lies in the slow, consistent, focused effort of showing up every day.
Minimalism isn’t about deprivation. It’s about clarity. And clarity is the foundation of success—whether you’re writing a novel, building a business, or simply trying to live a more intentional life.
Final Thoughts
George R.R. Martin may be known for writing sprawling, unpredictable stories, but his writing habit is surprisingly predictable: an old computer, a minimalistic word processor, and a distraction-free environment. It’s a reminder that habits don’t have to be glamorous to be powerful.
The curious habit of George R.R. Martin shows us that minimalism isn’t just about decluttering closets—it’s about decluttering your mind. It’s about protecting your focus, honoring your craft, and building success not on what’s trendy, but on what’s timeless.
So the next time you feel overwhelmed by options or distracted by noise, think of Martin at his green-text screen, typing out the fate of kings and queens. His success didn’t come from chasing trends, but from honoring a simple, consistent habit. And maybe, just maybe, that’s the true Iron Throne we should all be striving for.
