The Zen of Writing: Tools for Writing
Have you ever been charged with an idea? Maybe you were talking to someone and the conversation elicited a great idea or thought. Or you were reading something and an entire idea opened up in your mind. We are sparked with ideas and new thoughts all the time, but how often do we write these ideas and thoughts down? How often do we revisit them so that we can elaborate?
This article discusses the tools needed for writing. In the next part, we’ll be discussing the meditation methods you can use to dive deep into a writing mode.
Improve your writing skills
The beginning of the Zen of Writing series focuses on the most simple aspect of writing; having the right tools. Nowadays, people tend to over-rely on the smartphone to write their thoughts, ideas, and calendars. Based on my research, the most successful and talented writers tend to physically write their ideas and thoughts. One of my mentors, in fact, suggested that the small pocket notebook is also a great way to network and get personal/business contacts. A pen or pencil of choice is like a sword for anyone with complex and creative thoughts.
Remove addiction to digital media
I recommend moving away from the over reliance of digital technology. You can go to the 99 cent store and buy some really cheap notebooks or go to an art store that sells phenomenal artsy notebooks. You can buy extras and give them as gifts. I’m sure Ross, Staples and other department stores have them as well, not to mention the online marketplace. There really isn’t an excuse not to have a personal notebook to keep with you at all times. Once you get that, you can get deep into the Zen of Writing.
Mimic celebrated writers
Many famous writers took notes of everyday things to inspire their writings. Ernest Hemingway would famously sit at cafes and eavesdrop on conversations. Who knows, maybe some of his most famous dialogues might be ACTUAL conversations between real people. Of course, art imitates life. I’ve found that one of the most beautiful experiences in life is living a life that is a story, and allowing the story to inspire great writing.
Of course, if you don’t have a paper and pencil/pen in hand, your passion and inspiration to share the story or ideas may dissipate over time. That’s why it’s imperative to keep a notebook at your disposal. It’s not just about writing. I often draw ideas and innovations. I even storyboard if I see the story visually. The best part about a physical notebook is that you can write, draw, sketch or scribble. That is something that is not as easy on a smartphone. You also don’t have to worry about the battery running out or being distracted by Instagram or texting.
Begin writing the efficient way
As we begin this process into the Zen of Writing, we must build the foundation. We can’t build a foundation without our tools. In this case, it is the mighty pen(cil) and the canvas (notebook). Carry these tools with you as much as you can. With every inspiration, become enthusiastic to pull out your notebook and jot down your ideas. Replace negative habits like excessive texting or social media-ing with writing your thoughts and feelings down. This is probably the most important aspect of the Zen of Writing.
Destroy the writer’s block
Our bottled up ideas and inspirations can begin to frustrate us. When you actively write and produce physical manifestations of your thoughts, you begin to release bottled emotions. Often times, these bottled ideas and emotions turn into anger, depression or frustrations with ourselves and those around us. We may have great inspiration to share ideas, but our fear of judgement stops us. When you have a personal notebook, it is most important for you. It is a chance to release your emotions in a healthy manner. It is also a wonderful deterrent from abusing your smartphone and the distractions on it.
The next Zen of Writing will discuss Meditation and how it can help process and refine your thought processes. Refined thoughts and ideas help us write much better. Good luck finding the notebook for you! Share what you find in the comments or hashtag us #kotobee on social media so we can see your cool notebooks!
Read more.
Writing Process Explained for Non-Writers
