Copywriting Magic:
16 Factors You Can Use to Tap into Your Writing Genius
By Yara Nielsenshultz
For many people, writing taps into a part of the brain that we don't use on a regular basis. Writing thrives on creative force, yet it also requires an attention to detail and "rules." Consequently, you need to use both sides of your brain simultaneously when you write: the right side for your creative stimulus and context and the left side for vocabulary and language rules. (Click here to find out which side of your brain is dominant.)
We have found that people often have a "magic formula" that helps them to write. For example, I credit one of the best papers I wrote in college to reading Virginia Woolf's A Room of Her Own and Ishmael Reed's Mumbo Jumbo at the same time. The combination of logic and lyrics inspired a new voice, one that seemed to come from outside myself.
Now, I cannot sit and read two entire books when I need a creative jump (and believe me, I've tried reading just snippets, and it doesn't work), so I have other methods, too, all of which I've discovered by fortuitous accident.
To make writing easy, fun, and perhaps even magical, pay attention to those factors that give a creative bent to your writing. And if you need a jumpstart, try varying your writing routine to find your own magic. Here are 16 factors to consider.
Time of day
What time of day do you do your best writing? When I need to write creatively, I do it at night. For some people, early morning works best.
Food
A hot cup of Yerba Mate tea seems to kickstart my writing genius. Do you have a food or beverage that stimulates your creative senses?
Exercise
Some people find they're most creative after exercise (not me, alas!).
Music
Some types of music can put you in the right frame of mind to write. Some people listen to particular music while they're writing; others spend some time before they write getting into the groove.
Lighting
I must write in bright light. Others prefer a dimmer "mood" lighting. What works for you?
Place
Do you have a favorite tree that you can sit under while you write? Do you write best in bed, on the patio, at the kitchen counter…pay attention to the room or place that stimulates your creativity and move your writing there.
Length of time
Do you write best in marathon stretches or in a sprint? Don't push one or the other if it doesn't come naturally to you.
Chair
If I have a really comfortable chair, I struggle to write. I need a firm (but not hard) chair. When Aaron's in the writing groove, he twists from side to side, so having a rotating chair is important for him. Does your chair matter? For that matter, you may find you write best sitting on the floor or in bed.
Implements
When I need creative juice, I go straight to unlined paper and a gel-point pen. Maybe it's the tactility – that faint rolling under my fingertips. Works every time. Others write best on computer. Find what works for you and go with it.
Starting point
It's natural to start writing at the beginning. But it's not necessary, and it can defeat your momentum. Try starting in the middle and go back and do the beginning later.
Reading materials
Does a certain type of reading put you in a writing mood? Take advantage of it. Keep those reading materials close at hand and use them to prime your brain.
Time of week
My magic writing days usually occur on Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday, occasionally late on a Saturday or Sunday. I no longer even try to write at the beginning of the week. Pay attention to when writing comes easiest (or hardest) for you, and use those times for maximum writing efficiency.
Socializing
Does talking to people rev up your writing engine? If so, set up a group for creative brainstorming or call up a friend or colleague. Funnel that energy into your writing.
Focusing … or not
I often do my best writing when I'm writing more than one thing at a time. I bounce back and forth, using the momentum to drive me through all the documents at once. Other people find that a laser-focus works best for them.
Clean or clutter
Many people find that they need a completely clean desk before they can write. Symbolically, cleaning your desk can freshen your mind. It also minimizes distractions, enabling you to focus.
Doodling
Try doodling while you write to stimulate the right side of your brain. If you write on paper, use unlined paper and write all over it. Go crazy. I tend to write at a slant with arrows to additional thoughts, with lots of underlines and circles. For computer writers, keep a pad of paper and a pen handy. When your writing flow starts to slow, doodle a bit. It may jog your slump and get you going again.
Remember that your best writing process belongs to you and you only. And finding your process can be a fun adventure, one that puts you in touch with those factors that make writing magical.
© 2006 Red Pepper Writing
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Yara and Aaron Nielsenshultz, the Writing "Peppers" and founders of Red Pepper Writing, teach ambitious Coaches, Consultants, and other Solopreneurs how to use powerful writing to get more clients and make more money. For FREE weekly writing tips, visit http://www.redpepperwriting.com.
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