Writing On The Run
This sounds like a fugitive novel. It isn’t. It’s a well-respected strategy many writers use when inspiration and opportunity strike. And, if you hope to continue your work as a prolific artist, you should adopt the habit of writing on the run.
It’s not a literal tactic.
You’re not running down the street, weapon holstered and laptop swinging from your neck. Rather, you’re armed with a pad and pen, phone, laptop, or a recording device for capturing ideas and content while away from your writing space. Imagine how much you can get done, how many words you can write, and how many characters you can create when you take advantage of free time standing in lines, waiting in offices, or whiling away the minutes at the DMV. Simple, right? Wasted time converted to copy. Leading journalists and best-selling authors like Harlan Coben continuously tout the benefits of “writing on the run” and always carry a pen and paper with them.
Think of it like this. On average, 15 minutes of focused scribbling can produce a 100-word draft. If you travel by train, bus, rideshare, or plane, capitalize on your “free time” by writing. And if you spend time at the dog park or waiting for kids’ afterschool events to wrap up, pull out your journal and capture the ideas flowing through your mind.
To get the most from this strategy, go “old school.”
A paper solution combats digital distraction. A small notepad or journal dropped in your backpack, pocket, or bag helps you capture content without getting bogged down in texts, emails, and social media.
When I worked for a magazine, this tactic was my saving grace. I had oodles of time waiting for sources or standing around during a photoshoot. So, I would pull out my notebook, build my pitch list, and craft my story outlines, effectively shaving off hours of writing at the office. The habit has served me well, allowing me to create hundreds of articles yearly. In fact, this blog was written on a small notepad I keep tucked in my daily journal. While I waited for my friend to meet me at our favorite café, I knocked out 150 words. Not bad.
Now it’s your turn.
Or maybe you’re already writing on the run. I invite you to share your ideas, suggestions, stories, and tips below. Remember, Books Uplift is designed to support everyone in the “book world.” Maybe your “writing on the run” strategy turns out to be your next bestseller or rocking reading list. Do tell.
I hope this article provided you with a few applicable ideas. I would be honored if you shared this on social media. And speaking of sharing, please share your own ideas and experiences below. Together, we can build an uplifting community that supports each other’s happiness, well-being, creativity, and success.
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