So we’re automatic writing (though not in the psychic sense).
I start nearly all my workshops with this. It gets creative muscles limber, quietens the inner critic, and you just need a pen, some paper, and any sort of timer.
WHAT TO DO
Simply, write. For as long as our creative constraint encourages you.
Sometimes, I might say start with a specific word or phrase or idea to get you going. Other times, it will be totally up to you where to begin.
The important thing is to continue writing. No time to engage your brain in deep thoughts or decisions. Simply, write. And write. You’re not aiming to create anything precise, certainly not perfect. You’re allowing thoughts to flow through your pen.
Which means you need to write by hand. And keep to our time limit.
INNER CRITIC
When you write, do you ever hear a judging voice in your head? It’s usually telling you what you’re writing is silly, bad or wrong. It can be a nasty, unhelpful voice.
First time you try automatic writing, it’s likely to be loud. “You can’t use nouns like that. That’s not what you mean. This is a big waste of your time. You’re paying £7/month for WHAT?” Trust me, you’ll quieten the critic the more you write.
One day, you’ll sit down for some automatic writing and you’ll feel great. Free. Empowered. The inner critic will have been replaced by an inner glow.
Give it a go. See what flows. It’s all part of our practice.
Happy writing
Rob