The Power of The Morning Pages
Last week, we delved into the nuts and bolts of establishing a steadfast writing routine. We talked about the non-negotiables: consistency, scheduling, and defining the boundaries of what a truly productive day of writing looks like. But let's be honest—if the solution were as simple as ticking these boxes, you wouldn't be seeking more wisdom here.
Before we get too far though:
The Dual Challenges of Writing Regularly:
Working with clients over this past year, I’ve come to realize most people’s writing troubles can be put into one of two camps:
Logistical or Emotional
We covered a short introduction to a basic logistical solution in the last article. Now, it's time to address a basic, introductory solution to a large amount of emotional issues. This regular, sustainable, and incredibly accessible exercise is known as The Morning Pages.
This exercise was coined by Julia Cameron, in her classic work, “The Artist’s Way.” If you haven’t added this book to your library, I highly reccomend amelleiorating that situation, stat.
The Morning Pages: A Simple Exercise with Potent Results
If you've been following my journey on Instagram, you've seen my time-lapse videos of the Morning Pages in action. This isn't just a practice I preach; it's a cornerstone of my daily life. Every Monday through Friday I commit to this cathartic exercise. I truly believe they are a major reason I have been able to so consistently stick to a writing routine.
10 Benefits of The Morning Pages:
No Preparation Needed:
Forget about outlines and research. The beauty of the Morning Pages lies in their spontaneity. Just show up and start—the rest will follow.
Routine Clarity:
If you don’t know what you’re going to do when you show up it’s easy to become intimidated or scared and your likelihood of procrastinating increases. By knowing exactly what you’re going to do when you start your routine helps you keep the ball rolling.
Ease of Initiation:
The Morning Pages don't demand much. Sit down, open your notebook, and let the words flow. This simplicity is the key to dodging the paralysis that often accompanies the start of a writing session.
Emotional Equilibrium:
More than just a writing tool, the Morning Pages are a therapeutic ritual. They help balance your emotions, not just in your narrative but across your entire life.
Cultivation of Personal Voice:
Each page you fill is a step closer to discovering your unique voice. This exercise isn't about crafting perfect prose; it's about authenticity, about finding the rhythm and tone that resonate with your true self.
A Safe Space for Vulnerability:
These pages are for your eyes only. They offer a sanctuary where you can be as open, raw, and vulnerable as you need to be—without fear of judgment.
Emotional Processing:
Life can be overwhelming. The Morning Pages provide a space to unpack your thoughts and feelings, to make sense of your world and the worlds you create on paper.
Enhanced Emotional Intelligence:
By regularly engaging with your emotions, you'll develop a keener insight into your feelings. This emotional intelligence is a superpower when it comes to writing with depth and empathy.
Inner Critic Identification:
As you write, you'll begin to recognize the voice of your inner critic. The Morning Pages teach you to hear it, acknowledge it, and then guide it towards constructive feedback.
Self-Confidence Building:
With each day's three pages, you're not just filling a notebook—you're building a reservoir of self-confidence. This is the confidence that spills over into every aspect of your writing life.
The Morning Pages aren't just an exercise; they're a revelation.
They address the emotional challenges that every writer faces, turning them into opportunities for growth and self-discovery. I strongly encourage you to weave this practice into the fabric of your writing routine. Watch as it transforms not only your writing but your approach to life itself.
Ready to Implement this technique?
Read This Article to get started
Have you found my content useful?
If so, it would mean the world to me if you would consider supporting this page.
It takes a lot of work to put all of this together. If every single one of my followers donated just $3/month I would be able to happily build content for you full time. <3
