While working on writing pieces, I often remind myself that my draft is simply a draft. In my writing process drafting is when I can script out my ideas without worrying about getting every word correct. I often observe how some novice writers allow writing anxiety to keep them from being fully creative in the drafting phase. If you are a writer who often struggles with drafting your ideas, the below tips should help you become more productive.
Remember the goal of your writing piece - I often speak about the importance of establishing and revisiting writing goals, because goals keep writers centered as they begin to put together pieces of a writing project. Being reminded of your goal supports you in becoming more excited than anxious about the project. Your writing goal helps you focus on the essential elements of the writing piece and encourages you to start drafting.
Follow your writing plan - In a previous piece, I shared information related to the components of a writing plan. The writing plan is essential while you are drafting, because it acts as a visual guide for your work. The writing plan is also the road map for your writing, therefore, you should consult it while drafting. Following your writing plan closely could keep you on track while drafting and help you make progress with your work.
Avoid worrying about meeting specific page lengths - A rough draft is an unpolished version of your writing piece. Therefore, attention should be centered more on the content rather than meeting specific page markers. As you continue to revise your draft and add more of the ideas included in your outline, you will observe your page count increase.
Ask for feedback from a peer - When I am feeling overwhelmed during the drafting phase, I often turn to a peer to get feedback relevant to my ideas. I find that having casual conversations related to projects I am working on encourages me to continue drafting. Peers could provide you with creative opinions that help enhance your draft.
