I had a great discussion on my podcast this week with an author who also works as a writing instructor. Among the many topics we covered was how a writer should look forward to actually writing, as opposed to seeing it as just another item on their to-do list.
Hopefully a majority of writers fall into the former group. I like to count myself as one of them.
It may be challenging and frustrating, but writing is somewhat of a vital component in this equation.
How often have you heard somebody say something like “I’ve got a great idea for a story. I just need to write it.” and then it stalls out or falls apart somewhere along the way?
If they’re that enthusiastic about it, why aren’t they putting that ass in a chair and doing the work?
Because that’s exactly what it is – work. And it ain’t easy. It’s how you approach it that makes a difference.
As much as I love coming up with the ideas, I’m just as excited to put all the pieces together. It always takes longer than I’d like, but that’s how it usually goes for me. Even if all I manage to write that day is one page or even just one scene, I’m glad I put in the effort.
I’ve always thought you can tell when a writer is excited about their material because you can see it reflected on the page. The writing is vibrant and descriptive; it draws you in and makes you want to keep going. But if the writing is drab, flat, and you quickly lose interest, then it’s pretty likely the writer probably wasn’t into it that much.
Who wants to read something like that? Nobody.
This isn’t to say that your writing needs to be jaw-droppingly amazing, but at least make an effort to entice the reader and hold their attention. When you read it, does it make you want to keep going or can you feel your eyes starting to droop?
Be willing to put yourself through the time and effort to write a script because you’re practically compelled to get that story out no matter what it takes. You get a real thrill out of figuring stuff out on paper or pounding away at the keyboard, all as your page count slowly increases.
Embrace the enthusiasm and excitement you get from creating and writing to enable your readers to experience the same electric sensation. Your material will be that much better for it, and your readers will appreciate and enjoy it that much more.
