by Mark Phelan

Created on: January 25, 2010

Over the course of the past few years I have developed a way to jump start the creative writing process.  It has worked wonders for myself and various colleagues and friends I have shared it with.  I call it, "Mindless Journal Entry".

The process of the entry is extremely simple and produces astonishing results. You can do it in the comfort of your own home and all you need is a computer.

Here's what you need to do:  Open up a blank word document and close your eyes. Begin typing and don't stop for about 5 or 10 minutes.  The purpose of the exercise is to derail your train of thought and let ideas and feelings flow freely.  One fo the most deconstructive characteristics creative writers come in contact with is self critique that is too intense to overcome.  Typing with your eyes closed blocks off the self critique so that intimidation of a blank sheet is lost and the perfection mentality as well. 

During the typing process do not worry about grammar or spelling mistakes. When you open your eyes you will realize that you are a much better typist than you thought you were, and all mistakes are easily understood. The end result will leave you with a strong impression of how your mind functions. Do you think in a straight line, or does it jump between points like a ping-pong ball?  By understanding how you think, you will be able to enhance your writing ability and style for any given piece. 

There are many ways to jump start the creative writing process. If this method does not work for you look around on the forums to check out all of the other great ideas out there. Because of the simplicity of the Mindless Journal Entry there is no reason you shouldn't try it anyway.  It has worked for many people and it might be just what you're looking for to flush out some new ideas.  Lose the sense of sight while writing and the imagination and enhancement of all the other senses fills in the blanks. 

Best of luck in the creative writing process! I hope this method can inspire and bring out a new way of writing that let's you create the next best thing. Trying new things and gaining new perspectives has always helped for me.

Keep thinking. Keep writing.

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