17 Nov 09 Making Writing Into A Process

Written by: SamElli

Writing is a process.  Considering that fact, you have to treat your writing style like a process.  By keeping yourself in the same zone, going through the same motions, each time you write, you build your process.  Staying in that process will help you create more content, even when you’re feeling the effects of writer’s block.

It’s actually a fact that writing in the same process every time helps get the creative juices flowing.  By being used to the same writing routine, your body kicks into the creative groove.  Following the same guidelines every day prepares your body for the creativity necessary.  Keeping up with your guidelines will keep the creative portions of your brain active through any writer’s block.  Of course you’ll still go through periods of writer’s block, but you’ll be able to work through them easier.

The fundamental qualities of writing are something that don’t apply here.  You already have ambition, motivation, and a passion for writing, or else you wouldn’t be a writer.  You can’t count on those to carry you through however.  Instead you have to try a few techniques that will keep you going long term.

One of the most tried and true tactics to get yourself writing is time management.  Don’t think about your time to write as a long period each day.  Even if you’re a full time writer, think of time as smaller quantities.  Instead of thinking, I have an hour to work on this project, cut that into 10-15 minutes.  That puts a greater sense of urgency into your mind.  This will free you up to start getting creative immediately.  Once that creativity starts flowing, you’re good to keep writing for hours beyond that original 10-15 minutes.

If you can start writing, you can keep writing.  So that tactic of getting yourself to write can be very useful.  Try to find actions within your comfort zone, that feel the most natural.  Then cut yourself off from any possible distractions, as a distraction could cut off your creativity very quickly.