## Writing is hard [(00:00:00)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=0s) - Writing is a challenging task that can be intimidating, even for those with experience, as it requires facing a blank page, frustration, and doubt [(00:00:00)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=0s). - The idea of becoming a writer can be romanticized, but the reality of actually writing is a different story, involving worries about what to write about and whether the content will be entertaining or pointless [(00:00:07)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=7s). - Despite having written in spare time for a long time and having made it a job with scripts and a newsletter, the process of writing still intimidates and brings up questions about the quality and purpose of the work [(00:00:19)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=19s). - Common concerns that writers may experience include wondering if they are writing something boring, waffling, or pointless, and these issues are likely shared by many writers [(00:00:32)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=32s). - There is no miracle solution to solve all writing problems, and writers must find ways to overcome their own challenges and doubts [(00:00:44)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=44s). ## Why a writing routine matters [(00:00:46)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=46s) - A writing routine can provide a sense of stability and structure, serving as a foundation for producing great work, despite the chaotic nature of the world and unpredictable responsibilities that can disrupt one's schedule [(00:00:46)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=46s). - Having a writing routine is essential for staying consistent and making progress as a writer, even when faced with disasters, obligations, and other challenges that can knock one off their feet [(00:01:05)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=65s). - The key to a successful writing routine is to create a personalized schedule that suits one's preferences, strengths, and weaknesses, rather than trying to adopt someone else's routine [(00:01:50)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=110s). - The purpose of establishing a writing routine is to have a fallback plan that allows one to get back into the flow of writing and producing great work, even when their daily routine is disrupted [(00:01:38)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=98s). - Tracking one's writing progress can be helpful in staying consistent and pushing through rough patches, and it can also provide valuable insights into one's writing habits and areas for improvement [(00:02:12)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=132s). - A writing routine can be tailored to individual needs and goals, and it can involve breaking down the writing process into manageable stages, approaching each stage with a clear mindset, and striving to maintain high quality [(00:02:24)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=144s). ## What do I write about? [(00:02:33)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=153s) - When deciding what to write about, the vast number of choices can be overwhelming, especially for individuals with multiple interests, making it difficult to select a topic [(00:02:33)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=153s). - Having numerous options can lead to paralysis, causing some to feel that the abundance of choices is a reason to not write at all, which is considered a huge waste of potential [(00:02:51)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=171s). - To overcome this challenge, focusing on making progress by writing about at least one of your interests can be helpful, as it serves a higher goal and allows you to still be writing about something you love and care about [(00:03:09)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=189s). - It is not necessary to feel fearful of missing out on other interests, such as history or anthropology, if you are currently writing about a different topic, like literature, as writing is already a challenging task [(00:03:21)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=201s). - Writing about something you are passionate about, even if it means neglecting other interests temporarily, is still a valuable use of your time and energy, and you should not let the fear of missing out hold you back [(00:03:27)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=207s). ## How I make new ideas [(00:03:33)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=213s) - The approach to coming up with new ideas does not require any specific formulas or templates, and it allows for the generation of exciting topics to discuss or write about, with ideas being stored in a [[Notion (productivity software) | Notion]] table for later development [(00:03:33)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=213s). - When an idea is written down, it is not very useful on its own, so a brain dump of relevant information is done in a Notion page to help expand on the idea, including major points that can become subheaders in the final piece [(00:04:11)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=251s). - The level of detail in the plans for each idea can vary, with some being more rough and others being more detailed, such as a blueprint for a future writing project, which can be helpful when it comes time to write the piece [(00:04:41)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=281s). - Even rough and sloppy ideas can be useful, as they can spark the development of a great piece of writing, and writing them down is important, regardless of how undeveloped they may be [(00:05:06)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=306s). - [[Squarespace]] has been used to build a website, which offers a range of templates and features, including The Blueprint AI, to help guide design choices and make the design process easier, even for those who are not graphic designers [(00:05:11)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=311s). - The Squarespace website can be customized using the fluid engine, which allows for drag-and-drop features, and it is also possible to embed a newsletter signup form directly into the website, making it a helpful tool for writers [(00:05:44)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=344s). ## A starting point you can steal [(00:06:11)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=371s) - Many ideas for writing come after starting to write, as it allows individuals to figure out their preferences and topics of interest, but for new writers, finding a starting point can be challenging, especially when they have not yet begun writing [(00:06:11)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=371s). - A recommended starting point is to write practical pieces that help someone achieve something, such as cleaning their house, brewing coffee, or painting Warhammer minis, as these topics have a wide range of possibilities and can be approached from a place of personal experience and expertise [(00:06:42)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=402s). - To write about a particular topic, it is essential to have first-hand experience with it, as this lends authenticity to the writing and allows the writer to provide valuable insights and guidance to readers who are seeking to achieve the same thing [(00:07:26)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=446s). - Having personal experience with a topic, whether it be reading or another subject, provides a basis for writing about it and gives the writer's words weight and credibility, as noted by Henry David Thoreau's quote about the importance of living before writing [(00:07:52)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=472s). - Writing about a topic that one is passionate about and has experience with can be a powerful way to build confidence and skills as a writer, as it allows the individual to focus on sharing their knowledge and expertise rather than worrying about their writing abilities [(00:08:41)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=521s). - This approach to writing can be a good starting point for new writers, as it enables them to grow their skills and confidence in a subject area they are familiar with, and then potentially branch out to other topics and areas of interest [(00:08:46)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=526s). ## Planning, structure, clarity [(00:08:48)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=528s) - Good writing happens before the first word is written, and taking just 5 minutes to prepare beforehand can provide direction for the writing ahead, giving a clearer sense of what to talk about [(00:09:00)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=540s). - Without a plan before writing, the process can quickly degenerate into rambling, which can confuse both the writer and the reader, making it essential to have a rough structure in place [(00:09:12)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=552s). - Creating a rough structure involves writing down the subdivisions of the text and main points to be covered, while also considering the reader's perspective and what would make the most sense to someone new to the topic [(00:09:26)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=566s). - The structure of the writing is crucial, as it can separate a good piece of writing from one that flows beautifully and effectively conveys the intended message, with the goal of taking the reader on a logical path without causing mental strain [(00:10:05)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=605s). - Clarity is essential in writing, as readers are busy and will not try to decode vague or rambling parts, instead choosing to stop reading, making it important to prioritize clarity and keep the reader engaged [(00:10:43)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=643s). - To achieve clarity, it is necessary to consider the order in which information is presented, such as whether to start with a story and then bridge it to the point, or to discuss the problem first and then use the story to illustrate the message [(00:09:51)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=591s). - Surprising the reader and keeping them engaged is important, but it should not come at the expense of clarity, as the primary goal is to convey the message effectively and keep the reader interested [(00:10:22)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=622s). - Effective writing involves finding a balance between being clear and concise, while also being engaging and entertaining, with the ultimate goal of conveying the intended message to the reader [(00:10:30)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=630s). ## When is the best time to write? [(00:10:46)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=646s) - To establish a consistent writing routine, it is essential to block out a specific time slot, ideally one or two hours, to focus solely on writing, as this helps to minimize distractions and increase productivity [(00:10:52)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=652s). - Distractions can be a significant obstacle to writing, not only because they slow down the process but also because it can be challenging to regain momentum once the flow is disrupted, making it crucial to find a reliable and uninterrupted time slot for writing [(00:11:06)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=666s). - While writing in the morning can be beneficial, it may not be feasible for everyone due to other urgent tasks, and it is unrealistic to expect someone to wake up two hours earlier to write, so it is necessary to find a time that works best for each individual, whether it be in the morning, after work, or before bed [(00:11:19)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=679s). - Even small, uninterrupted periods of time, such as half an hour, can be beneficial for writing, and consistently dedicating this time over an extended period can lead to significant progress and accomplishments [(00:11:38)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=698s). - Sigma Grinds and other hustle creators emphasize the importance of setting aside dedicated time for work or writing, and this approach can be applied to writing by prioritizing a specific time slot and committing to it [(00:10:59)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=659s). ## Walk, write, and walk again [(00:11:50)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=710s) - Incorporating a walk into a writing routine can help eliminate brain fog and increase creativity, especially when feeling lazy or sluggish, by taking a break and recovering [(00:11:50)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=710s). - Pushing through fatigue in an effort to increase productivity is not a sustainable approach and can only go so far, as it is important to stop and take a break at some point [(00:12:02)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=722s). - Taking a 20-minute walk as part of a writing routine can help stretch legs, experience fresh air, and come back to writing with renewed energy, less fatigue, and a buzzing mind full of creativity [(00:12:22)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=742s). - This approach can give writing a new sense of life and energy, making it more manageable and increasing productivity, all by taking a short break to walk and recover [(00:12:35)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=755s). ## Interruptions and flow state [(00:12:40)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=760s) - Writing is often not a one-sitting task, and it is normal for a piece of writing to be unfinished and revisited after a period of time, which can be days or even a week, and this time apart can cause the writer to forget the content and lose their rhythm [(00:12:40)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=760s). - When returning to an unfinished piece of writing, the writer may struggle to recall the story, characters, and overall flow, similar to a reader who takes a break from a novel and later finds it difficult to reconnect with the story and its characters [(00:12:48)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=768s). - To overcome this challenge, it is recommended that writers reread what they have already written before continuing to write, as this allows them to readjust and get back into the flow of their work [(00:13:17)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=797s). ## How I edit for a polished final draft [(00:13:22)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=802s) - The editing stage of writing is where the actual improvement happens, replacing doubt and insecurity with something to be proud of, and it is essential to take a break from the writing before editing, preferably waiting at least a few hours or until the next day, to get a fresh perspective [(00:13:22)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=802s). - Editing allows for a more objective approach to the work, enabling the removal of unnecessary words, sharpening of sentences, and improvement of grammar to make the writing more effective and engaging [(00:13:41)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=821s). - There are three main corrections made during editing: sharpening up sentences to remove pointless words and extra fluff, ensuring the writing makes sense from start to finish by avoiding assumptions about the reader's knowledge, and making sure the writing is valuable for the reader [(00:14:17)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=857s). - To ensure the writing makes sense, it is helpful to approach it as if you are someone new to the topic, checking if the chain of reasoning is logical and easy to follow, and considering getting feedback from someone who is not familiar with the topic [(00:15:10)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=910s). - Getting feedback from someone with a fresh perspective, such as a family member, can help identify areas that need clarification and provide an objective opinion on the writing's clarity and effectiveness [(00:15:47)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=947s). - The third and final thing to look for during editing is ensuring the writing is valuable for the reader, as writing that lacks this is almost pointless to share, and it is essential to remember that writing should serve the reader, not the writer [(00:16:16)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=976s). - When writing, it is essential to consider the reader and ensure that the content serves a purpose for them, whether it be to provide useful information, entertainment, or inspiration, as readers typically consume content because they expect to gain something valuable from it [(00:17:24)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=1044s). - The value offered to the reader can take many forms, including practical advice, interesting ideas, or entertainment, and writers should prioritize the reader's needs throughout the writing and editing process [(00:17:43)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=1063s). - The first round of editing should focus on ensuring the content is polished and prioritizes the reader, and if necessary, adjusting parts that may be too self-centered to shift the focus to the reader [(00:17:56)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=1076s). - A second wave of editing can be beneficial, which involves using two new techniques: reading the work on a different screen, such as a phone, to gain a fresh perspective and spot mistakes that may have been missed [(00:18:26)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=1106s). - The second technique in the second wave of editing is to read the work out loud, which can help identify parts that sound clunky or jumbled and allow for revisions to improve the flow and cadence of the writing [(00:18:53)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=1133s). - Reading the work out loud from start to finish without encountering any "sticky points" can indicate that the writing has a strong flow and cadence, and writers can use this technique to refine their work [(00:19:11)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=1151s). - The technique of reading work on a different screen was learned from Kier, a great writer with a valuable newsletter, and both techniques can help writers scrutinize their work more closely and with precision [(00:18:42)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=1122s). ## 20:24 Publishing mindset [(00:19:20)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=1160s) - A publishing mindset involves recognizing that a final piece of writing is not going to be perfect, and it is likely that it will be improved upon over time with practice and experience [(00:19:20)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=1160s). - Allowing a sense of false perfectionism to hold back the publishing process can prevent improvement and growth as a writer, as making mistakes is a necessary part of the learning process [(00:19:42)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=1182s). - The idea of a perfect final draft can be debilitating and prevent writers from completing and publishing their work, resulting in a loss of potential ideas and stories [(00:19:54)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=1194s). - Feedback and engagement from others are valued, and readers are encouraged to share their own experiences, ask questions, and provide insights on how to improve their writing routines through email or comments [(00:20:06)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=1206s). - The importance of sharing and discussing writing routines and experiences is emphasized, as it can be helpful and enjoyable for writers to learn from and connect with one another [(00:20:18)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ&t=1218s). ## Sources - [website](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIkgSpAwWmQ?si=9IjtKcTViycTdx0v)