Hey, sorry I'm a couple days late. The first week of winter term was hectic.
Last winter I took writing 121 at my local community college, and the professor had us free write before we actually wrote our essays. At first I thought it was an epic waist of time that I could use to work on my essay, but I quickly found out what a great tool it is.
When you free write it should be unrelated to whatever your going to work on. Sometimes you end up writing about whats stressing you out that day, a different story idea that comes to mind, or about your day. It doesn't have to be about anything specific and you don't have to worry about grammar or spelling.
Set your alarm for five minutes and just write. No one watching you, knowing no one will even read this, not checking your spelling or grammar. Just write.
Write at least a page, or until you feel like switching over and working on your WIP. Sometimes for a free write it is best to pull out the ol' pen and pad of paper. Then your not distracted by the internet.
Sometimes, in your free writing, you may come up with the best plot idea, or you'll plan a great to do list or yourself, or it's random rants about your week. That's good, it's all good.
Okay, so say you still don't think free writing will help you. That's okay, to each his own. Just remember, if your struggling to start writing.
“Start writing, no matter what. The water does not flow until the faucet is turned on.”
― Louis L'Amour
What helps you start writing when your struggling? Do you even free write?
Please comment! I'd love to talk to you about writing and books.
Much love,
Thane