"Your intuition knows what to write, so get out of the way." Ray Bradbury
Sometimes, we are in the way of ourselves. We stand like a wall, keeping ourselves from achieving our goals. I witnessed my daughter standing in the way of herself yesterday. She was working on an acro dance skill that she had already attained. For some reason, she had placed a mental block keeping herself from performing it. It was very frustrating for her, and confusion abounded. As writers, I believe we can do this to ourselves.
About a month ago, I did this to myself. I wanted to write an "About Me Story" on Medium to introduce myself. Feeling awkward and weird about this task, I really didn't know how to begin. It felt unnatural to write about myself in this way. Finally, I decided to start freewriting and just let things go. In the end, I broke my block and came up with something I was proud to submit.
Freewriting, I believe, breaks a lot of my blocks. In fact, I would say 50% or more of my writing is freewriting. Freewriting is "the practice of writing down all your thoughts without stopping and without regard for spelling, grammar, or any usual rules for writing" (https://study.com). Freewriting is a valuable tool and should be kept in a writer's toolbox. Let's take a look at the rules of freewriting.
Keep your Hand Moving
When you choose to freewrite, keep your hand going and do not stop. Pausing will keep you from naturally flowing your thoughts into words.
No Crossing Out or Erasing
Do not erase or cross out words. Continue forward. You will have the chance to ask yourself if you want to edit the piece.
Let Go of Spelling, Punctuation, and Grammar
Once again, you can ask yourself later if you want to use it as an actual piece or as a basis for a future piece. Do not halt your process.
LET GO! Write from Yourself
Probably, this is the most important rule to freewriting! Relinquishing control of all the processes you have been taught will help you move forward. Let yourself be. Write just pure thoughts. Write with your soul.
I find this process the very essence of the quote above. "Your intuition knows what to write, so get out of the way," explains Ray Bradbury. When we move ourselves out of the way, our mind can work freely. This can be seen in writing or a dance acro move. We all experience this type of block in our lives.
Often, I already know what I want to communicate in a piece. Most of the time, I let my words flow naturally. Other times, I know what project I need to do, but starting is difficult. Freewriting helps me in both cases. Next time you are standing at the wall you have placed before you, find a restful place and let your thoughts flow.
Next Week's Blog: To Pause
Add comment
Comments