5 Tips to Just Start Writing

Writing is a deeply personal thing and sometimes it can be hard to even start. I know for me it can be intimidating at times, especially if it’s a project I care a lot about. But there’s no time like the present!

For others I know it can feel like a daunting task to even start. If you don’t start now, when will you? Below are 5 tips that hopefully will help anyone at any level to stop procrastinating and just start writing!

1. Read.

I know, I know. This sounds stereotypical but reading keeps ideas flowing and exposes you to new, interesting perspectives. Different writing styles from different authors can help you figure out what you like to read and works for you and vice versa. Varying your genre selection will also show you what you like and dislike. You may even find a new love for a genre!

2. Break It Up.

Sitting down and writing for 12 hours straight sounds ambitious because it is! Stepping away from your writing will help not only your hands relax from typing, but also your brain. I’ve had my best ideas when I’m not actively thinking about what I’m writing, and my brain has a chance to work everything out. Something that I’ll spend two hours agonizing over will come to me 20 minutes after I walk away from it!

3. Work in a Comfortable but Productive Environment.

Don’t sit on your bed because that’s just asking for you to take multiple naps. You do want a place that’s quiet, well lit, and comfortable. The more physically uncomfortable you are, the less likely you’ll want to sit down and actually write. Also make sure you're away from distractions and your phone is in another room (so the scrolling doesn't start!) Typically, I’d recommend a local coffee shop, but in the times of coronavirus pandemic, I’d advise against it.

4. Have an Accountability/Feedback Buddy.

Find someone in your life who you trust, value their opinion, and who will give you constructive feedback. Sometimes we need distance from ourselves and our writing and we can’t see errors that are obvious. This can be a fellow writer, a friend, family member, or another trusted person in your life who is willing to help you.

This person can also hold you accountable if you are deadline oriented. For example, you can say “By 5 p.m. I’ll be sending you 25 pages of what I’ve been working on.” You then have a clear goal in mind and someone to follow up with you.

5. Drafts Are Drafts.

Don’t worry about what you write being permanent. Drafts are drafts for a reason—they can be edited, and words can be deleted! Just write. Even if you think it’s not a great idea initially, it’ll be out on the page and you can flesh it out as you go. Bad drafts are okay, and it doesn’t mean the final product will be bad. Writing it always a work in progress.

What do you do so you can just start writing? What techniques or tricks do you use? Share any tips you have in the comments below!