ben436•6d ago

Started using writing prompts as warmups instead of planning tools

I used to treat writing prompts like a blueprint. I'd find a good one, then spend an hour mapping out characters and plot points before writing a single word. That all changed about six months ago when I had writer's block for three weeks straight. I started setting a timer for 10 minutes, picking a random prompt, and just writing whatever came out without editing. Now I use prompts as a sprint to get my brain loose before working on my actual novel. The difference is huge. My regular writing comes out faster and feels less forced. Has anyone else ditched their whole planning process for this kind of quick warmup approach?

2 comments

2 Comments

amygonzalez6d ago

I read somewhere that pro athletes don't just jump into a game cold, they warm up their muscles first. Seems like the same idea applies to writing. That sprint approach makes total sense for getting past the mental block before the real work starts.

nelson.finley6d ago

Start brushing your teeth in the shower, it's the same warmup logic for lazy mornings.