The world’s best writing tip
miscellaneous, writing February 4th, 2010
I didn’t invent it, of course, but I have been practicing it of late. What? The world’s best writing tip: Butt in chair.
Sure, I’ve heard it before but with my current workload (thanks, clients!), the only way to keep all the balls in the air and projects moving forward is to start cranking out copy.
And that requires putting my behind in the chair at my desk in front of my computer and getting things done. Not emailing, tweeting or posting my status. (During writing time, at least.)
It’s hard to sit still. But when I do, the words come. The type goes on the page. The copy gets done. The client is happy. And, frankly, so am I.
What’s stopping you from butt-in-chair-writing?
No ideas? Write about it. Too many ideas? Write about it. Not sure what to write? Write about it.
The point is to just sit and write for a period of time with no distractions. Set a timer if you have to. Reward yourself at the end of 30 minutes. Whatever it takes. I promise you will be more productive. I know I am.
February 15th, 2010 at 5:36 pm
This is a great post. I know a lot of people get offended when they hear “just do it” but really, that’s the only way. It’s great to read about other writers and read books about writing, but sometimes you just gotta bit the bullet!
February 15th, 2010 at 5:40 pm
This is a great post. I know a lot of people get offended when they hear “just do it” but really, that’s the only way. It’s great to read about other writers and read books about writing, but sometimes you just gotta bite the bullet!
February 15th, 2010 at 5:45 pm
Thanks, Kristen. You are absolutely right. I hear about plenty of wannabe writers who’d rather read about techniques or tips, or invest in CDs, books and workshops. I tell anyone who wants to be a writer to write. Then they can immediately start calling themselves “writer” instead of “aspiring writer.”