The best writing comes with no filter, a steady stream of conscious thoughts pouring out. That hard part comes afterward when you have to make sense of what you wrote. Then it’s a tug-a-war between your inner creative artist and grammar teacher. Finding a clean balance in your writing means getting rid of a lot of your hard work. It comes with the territory and every writer has to do it.
If you struggle with editing your own creative work, here are some tips to help you:
1. Make A Copy of Your Original Work.
Write your edits on the copy. Don’t throw anything away, you might be able to use your writing in another piece. Every word is a part of some story.
2. Keep Your Creative Hat on While Editing.
Editing is an analytical process, with the grammar police tearing apart your work. It can totally kill the warm fuzzy feeling of writing in your pajamas with a warm cup of tea. So, keep a healthy balance of both analytical and creative. Remember that this fun and you aren’t doing your taxes. Try some relaxing music or taking creative breaks during the editing process.
3. Be Oh So Kind to Yourself.
Okay, so it took a lot of guts to pour your heart out to produce this group of words. What you wrote means something. When you are editing, stop yourself when you think negative thoughts. Like, “who’s gonna want to read this?” Remember that your job is to edit, not be the mean girl from junior high.
4. Edit, Rest, Edit, Rest, Repeat.
Take lots of breaks to clear your head and get inspiration. Your words deserve the best version of your editing, so walk away and come back when you’re refreshed. Set small goals for editing your writing with dates and times to avoid burnout or overwhelm.
5. Keep Practicing.
The more you write and edit, the better you will get. Strengthening both muscles with practice will help your writing career. This takes times, so be patient with yourself. Keep a journal and write as much as you can throughout the day. It doesn’t matter what you write about. Just write.
Bonus Tip: Find Some Good Tools to Help You Edit.
There are lots of cool applications to help with the editing process like Hemingway App and Grammarly. These tools are super helpful in providing writing tips like reading grade level and nit-picky grammar rules.
Final Thoughts
I love this quote from Robert Frost, “The only way out is through.” This is so true when it comes to finishing your writing project. The only way out is through editing. Hang in there, my fellow writers. Take a breath, get a cup a tea, and write on.
Wanna improve your writing skills? Try journaling.
Click here to order a copy of “Just Breathe: A 90-Day Meditation Journal and Coloring Book
