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Showing posts with label Not Writing. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Not Writing. Show all posts

Saturday, October 19, 2013

How to not write

(A list of various truths from many different writing observations)

1. Claim to have writer's block: This is usually a reasonable excuse, unless the amount of time is too long to be believable anymore.
2. Focus on other things: Cleaning, working and of course "doing nothing" are the things that are normally prioritized when a writer isn't writing.
3. Whine and complain: Usually about not being able to write.
4. Read other's writing: This includes random gossip on the internet, your favorite classics, ads, and various titles of different genres.
5. Play video games: What better way is there to distract oneself from writing then bashing buttons and yelling at the screen during boss fights? Wasn't that relaxing?
6. Watch movies: Ah yes, the classic way to observe a story without reading anything.
7. Watch TV: This depends on your criticism of the characters, plot and over all story, versus what is actually on screen.
8. Take a walk: Every now and then, this gives you some ideas, like wearing a warmer jacket, or deciding to eat ice cream for no reason.
9. Talk to friends and family: Try to avoid bringing up writing.
10. Force yourself to write: You know reverse psychology? Maybe it is best to tell yourself not to write, and you may find yourself writing again.
11. Sing: But avoid songs like "Paperback Writer" by the Beatles, "Unwritten" by Natasha Beddingfield and other songs about writing.
12. Sit and stare at a blank page or computer screen: Trust me, many writers have done this.
13. Tell yourself that you will write eventually: Other ways to spout similar nonsense include, "I will write when inspiration strikes," or "I haven't found my Muse yet"
14. Tell yourself that this time will pass: You'll be writing again soon . . . maybe in a month, or a year.
15. Read your own writings: Hey, at least you're doing something with them!

There are many other ways to procrastinate, avoid and attempt then fail to write. These are a few that I have noticed.

What other "Writer's Blocks" have you faced?