It’s impossible to finish anything without starting. Most writers, however, find getting started to be a challenge. Some give up before they have even begun.
The first step is always the hardest, and it holds true for everything we strive to accomplish. But don’t let the fear of getting started stop you. Don’t let that blank page intimidate you.
It is said that showing up is half the battle, so next time you are feeling stuck, try this exercise. Get a pen and paper, find a space where you won't be distracted, and sit down. Write down all the reasons that stop you from starting. Describe the emotions you’re feeling when you think about getting started. What’s making you feel stuck? What’s holding you back? Get it all out of your head and onto paper. The flow builds naturally when you begin.
Another great piece of advice from Mark Twain:
“The secret of getting started is breaking all of your complex, overwhelming tasks into small, manageable tasks, and then starting with the first one.”
Check out our blog on Wednesday for tips on how to get started writing despite the fear and dread that comes with it.
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