Just Start Writing

Here's something every writer has to learn, over and over again. I struggle with this every day, and I've never met a writer who doesn't struggle.

Writing is writing. Just start writing. You don’t need to know what you’re writing... Just write.

We'll discuss your "silent partner" later. Your silent partner is your subconscious mind. It primes you to write, and provides the engine which drives your words. Its silence means that it comes out in your words.

Your subconscious mind is in charge of your writing. You can't think your way into communication with your subconscious. It's non-verbal. Your subconscious "thinks" in images and feelings. During the course of their writing careers, writers learn to pay attention to their subconscious mind because it's the source of inspiration. It's also the primary driver in your career.

The more you write each day, the more your subconscious is in charge. So write... follow your feelings, and treasure your fear.

Every day, write something which scares you

Whether you're a new writer, or are a pro, you will find that you can "write" without writing anything at all. You're writing, but you're not writing anything which is important to you.

These days many writers want to self-publish, because it's very easy. All they need to do is type, and type some more, and sooner or later they end up with a book. They publish it on the Kindle, and then the time-wasting starts. They blog and tweet, and add to their Facebook page. Yes, they write, but the material is ephemeral. It won't help them to build a career, or a body of work. Nor will it help them to make money — although they might get a few book sales out of it.

This is the fast-food of writing. Of course you need to tweet, and blog, and do all those things which contribute to your success. However, each day, you should also write something which matters to you — something you’re scared of. We’re always scared of our important writing. You know what’s important for you in your writing. Focus on that, even if it’s only for five minutes, each day.

Just start writing whatever it is, because it matters. It will build your career.

Exercise 2. Set one writing.

Set a goal for your writing. This goal should not be dependent on anyone, or anything else. Make it something that’s totally under your control.

For example, your goal might be to write a book, and complete it within three months. (Always put time limits on your goals. Without a time limit, a goal is just a dream.)