Writing is like thinking with two heads.
The first head (your actual brain) does the creating and synthesizing.
The second head (your piece of paper or computer) stores the work you’ve already done.
It’s like a computer. There’s the CPU (for computing power) and the hard drive (for storage).
And they’re separate for a reason — it’s impossible to do both tasks, simultaneously, at a high level. You run out of bandwidth.
That’s why writing is the best tool for developing creative solutions and thinking more clearly. Writing gives your mind the bandwidth to compute.
The best way to take advantage of your two heads? Start a daily writing habit.
Writing daily is not as hard as it sounds. And for many, it’s the best habit they’ve ever developed.
Here’s how to start a daily writing habit:
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Set an achievable (and motivating) goal
In my first attempt at a daily writing habit, I set the goal of 700 words per day. It proved to be too much. I quit after a few weeks because I was writing 700 words of pure junk.
I currently don’t have a word count-related goal. Instead, my goal is to post on Twitter daily and Substack once per week. I’ve been at it now for almost 2 months.
Not only is my new routine achievable, I’m also highly motivated to do it. I’m building a business for entrepreneurs who love to read and write.
Find your goal that’s equal-parts achievable and motivating.
Make the time
I know… duh, right? But yours truly often forgets to block off time for important things. So I’m telling you, too. Want to write more? Schedule time to write.
Schedule no more than an hour to start.
Brainstorm topics
“I don’t know what to write about!” is the oldest excuse in the book.
Waiting for inspiration to slap you upside the head won’t work, either.
Make sure you ALWAYS have a topic to write about. Brainstorm ideas and keep a running list. Have more ideas than you could ever cover.
Deconstruct the writing process
I actually covered this on Twitter (Give me a follow while you’re at it!)
Make sense?
Be accountable
If you write 1000 words a day for a year, and no one is around to read it, did you actually write at all?
Technically, yes. But will you reach your goal if no one is reading your work? Only if you have the inner peace of Mr. Miyagi.
My point is this: It’s easier to stick to your writing goal (or any goal) if you have someone holding you accountable.
I have two points of accountability:
The public (including my lovely Substack subscribers!)
My accountability coach, with whom I set weekly writing goals
Accountability can come from a coach, the public, or a friend who is willing to hold your feet to the fire when you’re feeling lazy.
Find your accountabili-buddy.
(Sidenote: I resisted accountability for years. I thought I should be able to do it myself… and I couldn’t. It’s ok to ask for help achieving your goals)
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Writing daily is the ultimate habit. It has both extrinsic and intrinsic benefits. You won’t just become a better professional. You’ll genuinely enjoy the time spent with yourself.
Good luck!
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