My routine:
* Write when I can.
* Usually late in the day (the only time I have).
* Listen to instrumental music (music with words is distracting).
* Go for 30-180 minutes, depending upon how into the story I am.
I tend to start stories when a particular emotion strikes me. "The Next Time Around" came after a fight with my wife. "113 Feet" came after hearing "Pressure" on EP. "Shell Game" was born of boredom at work. "My Pillow" happened when I woke up in the middle of the night with my body pillow on top of me.