I appreciate Dickie Bush’s writing advice and although I know I miss a post or two (and probably a lot of gems) I took my time this week and reviewed his latest tip deck on LinkedIn.
Here’s a summary of his six suggestions. Nothing earth shatteringly new…but I find repetition works because it gooses me along.
If you flip through the entire deck, you’ll get a feeling for the rich examples he provides. (I especially love the reference to Jerry Seinfeld who reportedly sets a timer each day and forces himself to write for 33 minutes and…yes…33 seconds to hit his goal of 33:33.) Makes me smile. You, too?
Reading Dickie Bush’s tips reminded me of a quote attributed to Francis Bacon about the importance of free-flowing ideas – or in Bacon’s vernacular “unsought thoughts“. The bon mots that sneak up on us when we’re not trying too hard:
“Write down the thoughts of the moment. Those that come unsought for are commonly the most valuable.” – Francis Bacon
The combination platter of taking a walk…capturing ideas everywhere (those unsought thoughts) and then writing with a timer – Bush’s tips #1, #2 and #3 – are a powerful trio.
I hadn’t thought about it much, but when I’m in a writing slump, I can typically diagnosis the ‘meh’ and point to one of those factors. Especially when I’m being tyrannical – demanding that words and ideas show themselves.
There you have it…I love taking a tip and making it my own and even more? I love sharing my epiphanies. Now I’m off to set a timer for 33: 33 just to see what happens.
-Vicki 😊
P.S. Tip #5? Being content to appear clueless? I think I nail that one – often and effortlessly. Thanks for joining me just the same! Which tip sings to you?
More of my own musings about writing? Here you go!
Hi – I’m Victoria, Vicki, Dr. Vicki. I hold a doctorate in Adult Education and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), and author of Surviving Sue | Eckhartz Press.
Check out this link to learn more about my book “Surviving Sue” – all about resilience and love.
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Victoria Ponders 
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