On National Proofreading Day, I commit to the editing process—the task I live to avoid. As Ann Handley says in Everybody Writes, it’s about getting that Ugly First Draft out. Then editing can actually be fun. I'm adopting a new approach: stacking methods. I write in the morning, take a break with a game, then return to refine my thoughts. This approach helps me tackle the challenge of adding more depth and detail to my writing.
My usual routine involves distractions—I smoke, play games, and then wonder why inspiration eludes me. In gaming, like Overwatch, I'm decisive, knowing exactly what to do next to secure a win. The game's structure—with its mix of abilities and perks—demands immediate action and rewards strategic planning. Yet, when it comes to writing, I find myself hesitating. I'm afraid to confront the challenges or admit mistakes.
Writing is not just a vitamin; it's a painkiller. I express myself. I organize my thoughts through words. I like writing movie reviews and book discussions. I even read about Raisin Bran—which I recently discovered is as sugary as it is fibrous—writing helps me say the quiet part out loud. What I share resonate with others.
Last night, while chatting with my friend Dylan about productivity, I brought up standard operating procedures (SOPs) for routine tasks. It was something he mentioned before. That resonated with me, highlighting the need for a structured approach. Not just in gaming, but in writing too. I'm prompting some today thanks to this article.
Is it the fear of imperfection that holds me back? I worry about not getting it right. I worry more about who will read it. This fear manifests in procrastination. I reason that I can scrape together any old blurb and call it a post.
Yet, the truth is, the act of writing—messy and imperfect—is what leads to growth. Just today in Overwatch, quick decisions led to victories and lessons learned. In writing, each draft is a step towards clarity and improvement.
I didn't come to like proofreading anymore after today. The work feels like its in the way of fun, but I can admit. Writing and proofreading are important tools for expressing and refining my thoughts. They help people consider different thoughts, but especially, my perspective sees the light.
They're like chores. Doing the dishes or bringing in groceries. Without it, I can't really live, can I? I won't engage with my interests or share my ideas with the world. One draft at a time, I will proofread. Even if it kills me.
Check in tomorrow to see what holiday I celebrate next.
I feel so much of this. Have struggled in a similar way often. I dont really push myself to write enough these days. I have my spurts. Lately i sing in the sauna, a mix of chanting and noises getting warmed up, but by the end im weaving words and repeating harmonies. This gives me that creative fix…though it is lost in the ether, so no real proofing.
I worry about this new AI generation. Writing and proofreading with a robot assistant.
And then i realize im getting old and just repeating the ‘the kids today’ pattern.
So i shut up and go sing in the sauna again.
Thanks for the share!
And thank you for reading and replying. I got some motivation from chatting with my buddies, psyching myself up with video games, and making sure I'm not even remotely hungry.
You're not alone having your own little ritual for feeling good. I think I want to make mine a single thing so I can just turn on my writing like a switch. For a while, I got work done listening to the Inception soundtrack!