"The first draft of anything is shit."
That's Ernest Hemingway. And while it may seem like a harsh statement, it's also an important reminder for writers at all levels.
As a writer myself, I know how daunting it can be to start a new project. The blank page can feel like an enemy, taunting you with the expectation of perfection. But here's the thing: perfection is not attainable, especially not on the first try. And that's okay.
Your first draft will be messy, imperfect, and maybe even a little bit awful. But it's also the foundation for everything else that will come after it. The first draft is where you get your ideas down on paper, where you figure out what works and what doesn't, and where you can let your creativity run wild without the pressure of making it perfect.
So don't be afraid of that first draft and its imperfections. Accept that it will be messy and give yourself permission to make mistakes. Remember that writing is a process, and the first draft is just the beginning. Neil Gaiman said it best when he said, "write down everything that happens in your story, and then in your second draft make it look like you knew what you were doing all along."
Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your first draft:
Set a writing goal: Decide how much you want to write each day or each week and stick to it. This will help you stay focused and make progress.
Don't edit as you go: Resist the urge to constantly go back and revise your work. Instead, focus on getting your ideas down on paper and worry about editing later.
Get feedback: Share your work with trusted friends or writing groups to get feedback and constructive criticism. This can help you identify areas where you can improve and give you new ideas for your writing.
Celebrate small victories: Remember to celebrate each milestone, no matter how small. Finishing a chapter, hitting a word count goal, or even just writing for a certain amount of time are all accomplishments worth celebrating.
Embrace that "shitty" first draft. Remember that it's just the beginning of a long and rewarding writing journey. Keep writing, keep learning, and don't be afraid to make mistakes.
-Andrew
The Indie Author Method
Comments