My friend was going to do a writing experiment, but was worried I as her writing coach wouldn’t approve. So I sent her a comprehensive list of all the experiments I disapprove of. If you’re thinking of experimenting with your writing, here’s a cautionary look at what experiments to avoid.
- Oh no, you’re doing an experiment where you refuse to write until 5 years have passed.
- Oh no, you’re doing an experiment where you only write when inspired.
- Oh no, you’re doing an experiment where you never write again.
- Oh no, you’re doing an experiment where you only research your novel but never write.
- Oh no, you’re doing an experiment where you talk about your idea but never write.
- Oh no, you’re doing an experiment where you always say you’ll write “someday.”
- Oh no, you’re doing an experiment where you’ll write when you retire.
- Oh no, you’re doing an experiment where you open up Facebook instead of write.
- Oh no, you’re doing an experiment where you binge on movies and books and then talk about how you could write better, but you don’t actually ever write it to write better.
- Oh no, you’re doing a writing experiment that somehow keeps you from writing entirely.
If you get any idea from this list, know that if you have a writing experiment in mind, I probably wholeheartedly embrace it! In fact, I think the best stories come from being innovative, playing with words, and experimenting.
If you’re looking for permission to think outside the box, the building, the rules of story, the world of writing, consider this your invitation. Dabble all you want. Just keep writing 🙂