How to Improve Your Writing in One Step
What do you think when you see those typically government-funded studies with stop-the-presses news like “Rain Causes Things to Get Wet” or “Daily Cheeseburgers Can Lead to Weight Gain?” Two common responses: “Our taxes paid for that?” and “Well, duh!”
It’s the same simplicity when it comes to improving your writing in one step. While I’m no medical expert, I do know about physical exercise. People who frequently work out often reach a plateau where their body doesn’t feel as pushed as it did when they first started a particular exercise. The best way for people to overcome this “muscle memory” is to change their routine. If you only jog, try cycling. If you only do bench presses, try push ups. You get the picture.
It’s the same with our brains. If we work the same schedule at our computers long enough, we’re going to hit that inevitable plateau. We know that physical activity causes the brain to release those healthy endorphins that give us a “natural high” and sense of well being. Per several studies (the valid kind), we also know that those released brain chemicals boost creativity. So how do we improve our writing in one step? The answer is in the question – just take one step away from your computer and do something physical.
I’m not talking about a training for a triathlon. I’m suggesting writers take a break from technology and walk around your office. Better yet, take the stairs down to the lobby, fast-walk to the snack bar, jog to the mailbox or walk the dog. Regardless of your work environment, doing something physical is almost always possible. Your body and your mind will thank you for it.
Susan Hart, APR, is an independent Public Relations consultant with 25+ years of experience. Beginning as a journalist, she represents clients in health care, financial, technology and real estate offering professional writing as a primary service. She is accredited by the PRSA.
You’re the expert but I’d recommend taking more than one step away from the computer. You could bang yourself against the desk. ;-)
It’s true. I’ve bogged myself down with writer’s block before simply due to inactivity — as in, not enough physical exercise every day.
Though writer’s see the brain as the main driver in their writing, my experience makes me believe that there’s much more to it than that. Sure, your brain is the center of thought, but the state of your health and body will inform how you think, imagine, and create.
Without exercise the brain requires more from your brain, which leaves you less steam when writing … most likely why we feel exhausted, unable to think creatively, and stuck with the infamous writer’s block.
Even stretching will help get the blood flowing — better blood flow makes the brain go ’round.
Good points, Chris, especially about the stretching. Sometimes I think writers get a bad rap because they’re often perceived as the old-time newspaper reporters with a cigarette in one hand and a drink in the other – the opposite of anything healthy. While I can understand that perception, today’s writers are much more sensitive to the “whole” approach to writing. Thanks for commenting!
That’s funny you mention that bad rap — I think in addition to exercise, you also need to enjoy life as a way to stay healthy (mentally) … and for many, a cigarette in one hand and a drink in the other is exactly that — enjoying the little things.
And I think that bad rap might apply to more than just the old-timer in the news room — it sounds like everyone in 1962!
Oh, how times have changed.
Cheers ;)
Susan, Nice article! I love the analogy with working out. It makes it easy to understand and relatable. I definitely think it is important to exercise the mind regularly in different fun ways.
Nicely wrote!
Thanks, Megan! My hope is that I’ll always be able to form complete sentences and be strong enought to carry my own groceries! Thanks for commenting!
Susan:
Thanks for your informative post. It is an insightful contribution and adds value to our lives.
We have only started to understand the mind-body connection. Writers can’t afford to sit at their desk all day long and the sedentary lifestyle can work as a silent killer. This has also been well-documented in books and the popular media as well. It is important to step out of our comfort zones, every once in a while, and work out.
Even a casual stroll in the garden or park can lead to fresh insights. It can clear your head and make you feel more whole. Of course, this does not work for everybody, but the point is: do whatever floats your boat. Personally, I think swimming is the complete work-out: it is a total body work-out, improves blood circulation and your cardio-vascular system. After a swim, I feel I can breathe more efficiently, which is important for writers (artists in general).
In addition, don’t forget to practice different or a variety of yogic postures. Pick up a book about yoga or join a class. It helps to stretch your body, especially if you have stiff joints and aches and pains when you wake up in the morning. Yoga can improve your posture and make your body feel more supple, relaxed. And try massage therapy as well.
Great recommendations, Archan! I’m such a believer in a balanced physical, emotional, mental and spiritual life – especially after not having one for decades. You really don’t know what you’re missing when an imbalance occurs because you’re so “isolated” and accustomed to that quality of life. I’m in much better shape and life balance than I’ve ever been, precisely because of some of your suggestions. Thanks for commenting!
Personally, I feel I need a certain level of imbalance as a writer — after all, the base of all drama is conflict, so if you have a perfect balance in your life you might not be experiencing your own personal brush with conflict, which I can only imagine might prevent one from the steady stream of inspiration.
Just my two cents.
I know trying out new things once in while really help inspire me when I feel challenged.
great article, Susan !
Great post Susan. I agree with your thoughts. Exercising promotes an overall sense of well being. Once in a while it is necessary to unplug and look for other avenues to fuel our creativity.
Great article, I always keep myself looking for new tips and ways on how to improve my writing and one of my favorite mentor on learning how to write a book is Mark Victor Hansen, co-author of Chicken Soup for the Soul.