I used (and use) a similar approach to develop the habit of writing everyday.
For example, if I'm scheduled to write for 3 hours and I feel too much resistance, I write for less time. Maybe 2 hours. If I'm super resistant, I invoke the 'nuclear option' and write for no more than 30 mins, or even less.
Much more important than hitting some predetermined target is writing everyday no matter what. To be forthright, it's not particularly difficult once I get going. The writer in me wants to write; that guy just needs a little coaxing sometimes.
I learned of the 'nuclear option' from an unfortunately titled book by Jerrold Mundis called 'Break Writer's Block Now'. The title is pretty cheesy but the book is gold. It's designed to be read (and applied) over an afternoon, perhaps 3-4 hours. It works. The proof is me. I've been a professional screenwriter for several years now as a result of daily effort.
I guess the most important thing I've learned is that punishment doesn't work (at least for me). But gentle, consistent practice does.
how does it work though? sounds like you are being rewarded for not holding your own end of the promise (next day you do less challenging thing). I'm not saying punishment should work better but curious how it works.
breckinloggins|2 years ago
1. Promise yourself you will do thing tomorrow
2. If you do thing tomorrow, make another promise and repeat (but maybe a more challenging thing)
3. If you fail to do thing tomorrow, make another promise and repeat (but a WAY less challenging thing)
Example:
1. I will do 1 pushup tomorrow
2a. Tomorrow happens, I do pushup. I promise myself I'll do 2 pushups tomorrow.
2b. Tomorrow happens, I don't do pushup. I promise myself I'll bend my knees in something vaguely resembling a squatting stance tomorrow
I definitely recommend books like "Atomic Habits" and "The Power of Habit" for getting ideas that might work for you.
kworks|2 years ago
For example, if I'm scheduled to write for 3 hours and I feel too much resistance, I write for less time. Maybe 2 hours. If I'm super resistant, I invoke the 'nuclear option' and write for no more than 30 mins, or even less.
Much more important than hitting some predetermined target is writing everyday no matter what. To be forthright, it's not particularly difficult once I get going. The writer in me wants to write; that guy just needs a little coaxing sometimes.
I learned of the 'nuclear option' from an unfortunately titled book by Jerrold Mundis called 'Break Writer's Block Now'. The title is pretty cheesy but the book is gold. It's designed to be read (and applied) over an afternoon, perhaps 3-4 hours. It works. The proof is me. I've been a professional screenwriter for several years now as a result of daily effort.
I guess the most important thing I've learned is that punishment doesn't work (at least for me). But gentle, consistent practice does.
garrickvanburen|2 years ago
I would have "do one pushup" as a calendar appointment at a specific time during the day.
My calendar today has; "write morning pages", "clean brewery", "run 30 min"
dkarras|2 years ago
tpoacher|2 years ago
imhoguy|2 years ago