The Biggest Mistake Writers Make & How To Fix It:
Look, I get it. Writing can feel like a chore.
It's not unusual to need help staying on track.
This is particularly true when screenwriting is perceived as draining, difficult, and sometimes, on your worst days, even pointless.
You may desire to write, but encounter resistance when it comes to the actual task of transforming daydreams into written words.
This can feel overwhelming and just… awful.
Why are you avoiding the thing you say you want to do the most?
The Biggest Mistake Writers Make Is Not Finding Joy In The Process
Before we get too far though…
You Learn Faster in Play
Consider this: You learn more (and might even make more progress) if you look at your writing as a form of play.
The idea of learning through play isn’t just a feel-good notion; it’s supported by extensive research. Studies have shown that play enables children to develop in various learning domains, including language and social-emotional skills. Play-based learning encourages children to test ideas and make choices, leading to effective and enjoyable learning experiences. This principle also applies to adults, particularly in creative endeavors like screenwriting, where play can foster self-confidence and intellectual development.
A Habit Needs to be Enjoyable for it to Last
"The first three laws of behavior change—make it obvious, make it attractive, and make it easy—increase the odds that a behavior will be performed this time. The fourth law of behavior change—make it satisfying—increases the odds that a behavior will be repeated next time.” - James Clear, Atomic Habits
Drawing from James Clear’s "Atomic Habits," the principle that a habit must be enjoyable to be sustainable is pivotal. Immediate reinforcement to provide pleasure or enjoyment is essential in sustaining motivation towards long-term goals.
For screenwriters, integrating fun elements into your routine, such as rewarding yourself after (or even during) a successful writing session, can significantly boost motivation and enjoyment.
Incorporating Enjoyment/Play in Your Writing Routine
"The human brain evolved to prioritize immediate rewards over delayed rewards. The Cardinal Rule of Behavior Change: What is immediately rewarded is repeated. What is immediately punished is avoided. To get a habit to stick you need to feel immediately successful— even if it’s in a small way.” - James Clear
Julia Cameron, the author of, “The Artist’s Way” emphasizes that creativity should be fun and playful, advising writers to treat their work as play. She also recommends engaging regularly in going on Artist’s Dates:
An "Artist's Date" is a weekly solo excursion dedicated to exploring something that excites or interests the individual, aiming to spark creativity and playfulness. It must be done on one’s own (How would you feel if you showed up to a date and they brought a friend?) It is a fundamental tool in “creative recovery,” and emphasizes the importance of self-nurturing and fun in artistic processes.
Screenwriters can embrace this approach by allotting dedicated 'play' time within their routine.
Engage in activities unrelated to writing which spark creativity, such as reading, nature walks, or hobbies. The goal is to break free from a rigid work mindset and allow yourself to explore and enjoy the creative process.
Practical Examples:
I like to start my writing sessions by making a fresh cup of drip coffee or tea alongside a tasty snack which I enjoy while working on my stories. This serves as both a cue to write and as a reward.
When I have completed my allotment of writing for the day I cross the day off in my year-at-a-glance calendar with a big red x. This feels satisfying in and of itself and I can look over all the days of work I have completed and feel an extra burst of pride for all the days I show up.
Create a playful and inspiring workspace - make your writing area somewhere you enjoy hanging out.
Incorporate Artist Date’s into your routine. Julia Cameron recommends going on an Artist’s Date at least once a week. I have to admit, this has been incredibly difficult to implement on my end, but whenever I do, I feel oodles more creative.
Take time to HAVE FUN - it doesn’t necessarily need to be while you’re writing, but if you’ve been hitting the keyboard too hard lately and are wondering why you feel burned out, try substituting active play for your next writing session. I’m not talking about passively watching something or playing Candy Crush - I’m talking about actually going out and having FUN or engaging in an active hobby you enjoy.
With the Holidays in sight, go ahead. Be Bad. Break away from your routine. Recharge with friends and family. Be present.
Incorporating play and enjoyment into writing is not only beneficial but essential. It creates an environment conducive to creativity, accelerates learning, and ensures the sustainability of the writing habit. For screenwriters, this means transforming writing from a mere task to an enjoyable journey of creative exploration. By embracing this approach, the act of writing becomes less of a chore and more of a joyous adventure in storytelling.
