Observing the Buffet of Ideas
Writing a novel can sometimes feel like standing in front of an 'all-you-can-eat buffet' of ideas. The options are endless, and the fear of missing out on the perfect plot twist or character arc can be paralyzing. In this post, we'll explore strategies to streamline your choices and reduce decision fatigue, making the novel-writing process more manageable and enjoyable.
Sequencing is the Solution
One effective way to combat the overwhelm of choices is through choice reduction and sequencing your work. Instead of attempting to tackle ten story problems simultaneously, focus on solving them one at a time. This approach simplifies the process, allowing you to give each problem the attention it deserves without the mental clutter of juggling multiple issues.
The Novel Writing Buffet: Start Small
Think of writing a novel like navigating a buffet. The key is not to overload your plate on the first go. Start with a small, manageable portion – focus on one aspect of your story, such as developing your main character or outlining a key plot point. Remember, you can always come back for more. This way, you won’t feel overwhelmed by the abundance of choices and can enjoy the process one bite at a time.
Timing Your Story Analysis
There’s a time for story analysis, but it’s not during the first draft. Over-analyzing your story or trying to learn too much while in the midst of writing can lead to paralysis by analysis. Write your first draft with freedom and creativity, then analyze and learn from it afterward. This approach allows your ideas to flow unimpeded by the pressure of getting everything right on the first try.
Avoiding the Bottleneck of Ideas
An abundance of ideas can lead to a bottleneck, where you find yourself stuck, unable to decide which path to take. To avoid this, prioritize your ideas based on their relevance and potential impact on your story. Not every idea needs to be pursued immediately – some can be saved for later projects.
Action Over Theory
If your writing plan is all theory and no action, you might end up writing a novel only in your head. To bring your story to life, shift your focus from theoretical planning to actionable steps. Set realistic goals, like writing a certain number of words per day, and stick to them. Remember, a novel is written one word at a time, not just by thinking about it.
