Just Write

When looking for writing advice you may run into this one: Just write.

In fact, you probably will. That's because it works. Here's a few reasons why, and then a few places it might not work.

1. Last week I talked about disequilibrium and the psychological tendency we have to try fixing the dis. Well, you can put that to use. If you are struggling to write something good, then write something. If it's good you'll want to keep going, if not you'll probably try to fix it. I can't tell you how many ideas that have turned from a little spark into a roaring flame just because I put down something crappy. This is useful in brainstorming ideas for your book, fixing plot holes, or just getting your ideas out so you can fix them.
2. Writing itself is a chore. It's not easy. It is easy to put it off. On Monday morning I have to go into work. It's a rare Monday that I wouldn't rather be spending as an extra Sunday. But I often find that when I go in it's not as bad as I thought. Forcing yourself to write can often get you in the mood, and sometimes you'll even like it.
3. Writing is a skill. It takes practice. If you don't keep up on it you will lose some of the things you have learned.

When won't it work? One time that just writing doesn't work for me is when I'm completely burnt out. Emotionally, physically, spiritually. Sometimes I need to sleep. But even in those times if I write I usually find that I have a bit more energy than I thought.

So that's it for today. It's not much, it is a Monday post after all.