How To Begin Writing
I have had so many people tell me that they want to write. Some of them have started and then stopped, and the rest have yet to begin their process. Even seasoned writers go through times of writing that are more fruitful than others. But, they know how to begin again.
Let’s talk about how to begin writing. Writing something down is not difficult. Sitting in front of the computer with hands on the keys, ready to type is easy. But even when we know how to form sentences, have something to write with, and an idea of what to write, something can still prevent us from actually writing. What stops so many from creating a written work? The decision of what to write and not understanding the mechanics of how to begin. But just like any other thing we learn to do, it takes practice and determination. If you know you’re supposed to write, or if you wish you could, that’s good news! Desire to write is the single most important motivator. And it is this desire that will catapult you into the practice and discipline it takes to be a good writer. But, let’s not talk about being a “good” writer. Let’s talk about where to start and how to begin.
Knowing what to write is not as important as the actual practice of writing. To be good at something you must do it regularly; You must make time for it. As you begin to write, it will release a flow of creativity. Sometimes it is just a slow drip of inspiration that trickles out, but other times it may spring up suddenly and overflow onto the page. As we relax, the inspiration of creative thought begins to flow. When you try too hard, it can become laborious, and cause you to struggle to sit down and write. But when you write from the heart and not the head, it will release more inspiration than when you just decide what you should write. So, take time to write without an agenda. Set a timer and practice writing. Write about anything that comes to mind, or use a word or phrase as a writing prompt to get your creativity going. Another fun creative writing practice is to find a picture and use it as inspiration to write a few sentences, a poem, or a paragraph.
Do I think writing is easy? Yes, and no. It is easy to sit down and write, but to approach a large writing project is daunting. To me, bringing an immaterial thought into existence is like standing at the edge of a dense jungle with just a machete in hand. It is my job to create a path. Which way to go is totally up to me. I only have to make a decision, and take just one step to begin clearing out a path toward my goal. I can adjust my course as I go and decide to take another route, but I just can’t stay in place. I must take another step, and another step. My writing journey has been filled with highs and lows, exhaustion and exhilaration, but it has been the ultimate thrill-ride.
Have you ever had a desire to write? Do you have something specific on your mind, or just a general desire to write? Thinking back over your week, what type of things have you taken the time to write down—on paper, on your computer, or on your phone? If you have a desire to write, just create a moment to sit down and write something… anything. I love getting settled with a cup of tea, putting on some instrumental jazz, and setting a timer. Find what works best for you and repeat it over and over again!
Find an empty page and something to write with and just do like this song Do Re Mi, from The Sound of Music, “Let’s start at the very beginning, it’s a very good place to start.” There are many things to write about, and here are just a few ideas to get you started.
Make a list.
Tell a story.
Write on a theme.
Answer a question.
Document something.
Express an opinion
Write a letter.
Blessing, Tami Gaupp