Author Bonnie Paulson recently introduced something amazingly effective to me- the writer’s sprint. When she first invited me to one I was praying it didn’t involve running shoes (because mine are all old and dingy). But she explained we, and a few other writer’s, would get together (away from our houses) and write for a solid hour, aiming for a high word count. I told her she was going to crush me because her fingers are like lightning across the keyboard. Then she further explained that it wasn’t a race.
I had never made so much progress so quickly. Usually when I go to the coffee-house to write I stare off into space, nibble on my pumpkin bread, or sip my herbal tea. But I suddenly didn’t have time for that. I had to put up respectable numbers with my friends sitting there. So I dove in, not turning back for mis-spells, or any other editing. I won’t tell you how many words I usually do during these one-hour sprints (because you probably type faster than me, too). But, I will tell you that my numbers were comparable to my acquaintances. Except for Bonnie. Hers were double.
This is an excellent way to spur yourself to work through those difficult scenes you just don’t want to linger on. If you don’t know what to write, sometimes this method is great to get the words on the paper. I’ve often heard “stories write themselves.” However, I highly recommend you have a general idea of what you’re working toward, or in your haste you might start veering of course just for a high word count. Also, this is always best done with a friend. If you can’t get out, then call a friend and ask them to do it with you. Then call them back after an hour and share with each other how you did. It really is fun, and if you are the competitive type this just might be the thing to keep you pushing on toward that finish line. Happy writing!
Shelley Martin Fiction 