We all have them little ticks or totems that we can’t write without. Whether it’s a cinnamon latte or a special notebook or a favorite writing spot, these things shackle us and limit how we do our writing. Sure, some rituals can be helpful sometimes because they tell our brains “OK, it’s writing time.” The trick is not to become so attached to these rituals that they become crutches.
All you need to do is write. Today is our first Writing Sprint. There is no assignment or prompt today. Instead, I want you to write for a chunk of time and focus on breaking away from crutches that shackle your writing. Don’t overturn your writing habits altogether, just make one small change.
Examples: If you’re used to writing on the computer, use a paper and pen. If you prefer a noisy coffee shop, go to a library. If your favorite spot is your own desk, try writing outside. If you can only write for long chunks of time, force yourself to write in the nooks and crannies of your day.
Tell us on Twitter: How are you shaking up your writing rituals today?
When you’re done, tell us how you did! Post one of these badges on your blog, tweet your word count or share your writing sprint experience in the comments.
Comments on this post
Great advice! I had to really write out of my comfort zone when I moved countries and didn't have a permanent home for three months. I realised then that all I really need is my laptop and a comfy chair. What I haven't tried, and really want to, is writing out!
I won't be joining in the sprints today but the next one I can I'll do it writing out somewhere. A cafe, a library, a park, the options really are endless. 🙂
2. April - 11:47 amWrote 500 words for my WIP for a new scene that I wanted to add. Thanks for the advice.
2. April - 10:31 pmI wrote 1500 words, and came out of the comfort zone of writing at home, on the laptop, in complete silence. I went to a cafe and wrote long hand.
3. April - 1:23 amGreat work writer friends! I didn't get quite as many words in ans I wanted today (probably somewhere around 300) but I did receive my iggilicious journal sample in the mail and it looks great. Now just have to place an order for more!
3. April - 3:53 am500 for me 🙂 I squeezed in a small chunk of time for writing today, rather than my typical long hours. You know what I found? I was more productive in that short time than I usually am during a long session. I also felt energized after I finished instead of drained.
Thanks for the tip, I'll definately be trying this more often!
3. April - 4:16 amI usually work for long stretches of time, without interruptions, but yesterday I just kept adding a paragraph here, a word here, in between running errands, going out to lunch, and fixing dinner. But I was *way* more productive. Thanks for the advice — I'm going to be a better time thief from now on. 🙂
3. April - 5:07 pmGo K.V. and Kiernan!
I am so glad you guys enjoyed writing in short sprints. Myself, I'm a strong believer of time-thieving and I'll often plan little time heists (usually during lunch) where I'll run and hide somewhere so I can write for a short while. It's fun and it feels like I'm being a little bit bad which adds to the danger factor. 🙂
3. April - 5:36 pm