My goals this year require me to do more writing. To accomplish this, I plan to write faster.
The faster I write, the more work product I will get out the door producing more income, bringing more traffic, generating more leads, and building my brand.
Here’s how I plan to accomplish this:
(1) Stick with what I know
One of the biggest causes of writers’ block is not knowing what you want to say. When you write about what you know, writing is easier and faster.
You also don’t have to do a lot of research. If I do need to research a particular subject, I’ll either do it before I write, so as to not interrupt the flow, or “write around it,” i.e., leave a blank and come back to the subject later.
(2) Create more detailed outlines
I often find myself going down rabbit holes and off on side roads in my writing because I haven’t done enough advance planning. More detailed outlines will allow me to know what I’m going to say before I say it. That will allow me to not only write faster, but avoid wasting time on topics that are off subject.
(3) Write shorter
I’m working on a book now that will be less than one-third the length of the previous one. Shorter writing means more readers coming into my funnel. It also means I can get onto the next project that much quicker.
To write shorter, I’ll (a) choose narrower topics and (b) leave out some details, explanations, and examples.
(4) Bigger daily word count
I write every day, but I don’t crank out as many words as I know I could. This year, I’m committed to a bigger daily word count. I’ll do that by using the AIC method (“ass in chair”).
(5) Dictate more
I wrote most of the first draft of the book I’m working on now in a few hours. How? By looking at my outline and dictating it. I’ll transcribe it myself and flesh it out as I do so.
I’ll also try working more with Dragon Naturally Speaking, which I haven’t yet been able to master.
(6) More music to tame my inner teenager
After about 15 minutes of writing, I feel the urge to check email or do something else on the Internet. It gets me out of “flow” and takes me longer to get back on track.
Music helps me write for longer periods of time. Classical or new age; nothing with lyrics.
(7) Reward myself
Yes, the work product, and the income it will generate, is its own reward. Nevertheless, I’ve got a couple of new books I’m itching to crack open, digitally speaking. I’m looking forward to finishing my work for the day so I can get my reward.
So, no more time to chat. I’ve got words to write before I rest, and miles to go before I sleep.
