Happy Monday, Lab Techs!
Distractions are really good at popping right when you're trying to focus and write. Or self-doubt starts to creep in bit by bit. And that's just it, isn't it? Distractions show up aggressively and self-doubt gnaws at you slowly.
These both can make writing practically impossible sometimes, and then you look at the clock and realize hours have slipped right past you and you've made zero progress.
In fact, I started this blog 3 hours ago and I'm only just getting words on paper. Do you want to know the trick? I'm in a group writing sprint right now. Some of you were right there with me!
So why is it that 3 hours of nothing went by but suddenly I hop on a Zoom call with 4 other people and I'm getting words down? Let's dig in and see.
What Are Writing Sprints?
A writing sprint is a short, focused burst of writing, typically lasting between 15 and 50 minutes. Your goal is to just sit and write as much as possible without stopping to edit or overthink. I personally like to follow the Pomodoro technique and set timers for 25 minutes of writing and a 5 minute break, then 25 minutes again. Or 50 minutes of writing with a 10 minute break.
By setting a timer and removing distractions, it's a little easier to focus on progress instead of perfection.
While you can absolutely do these alone (and I recommend it), it's also beneficial to do this in a group setting, which I'll talk about more below.
But first! Let's science!
The Neuroscience Behind Writing Sprints
Writing sprints work because they align with a few (really interesting) key cognitive processes:
The Flow State: Coined by psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, flow is a mental state where people become fully immersed in an activity, leading to peak performance and enjoyment. Writing sprints honestly create the right conditions for this flow state. You're setting clear goals (word count or time limit), getting immediate feedback (words appearing on the page), and even minimizing interruptions.
Parkinson’s Law: This principle states that "work expands to fill the time available for its completion." By restricting writing time, sprints create urgency, forcing your brain to work more efficiently.
The Zeigarnik Effect: This psychological phenomenon suggests that unfinished tasks linger in our minds, keeping us engaged. A short writing sprint often leaves writers wanting to continue, increasing motivation for the next session.
Dopamine and Motivation: Completing a sprint triggers a dopamine release—the brain's reward chemical—which reinforces those positive habits and makes future writing sessions just that much easier.
Why Writing Sprints Work for Writers
Overcomes Procrastination: As you well know, the hardest part of writing oftentimes is starting. A short, timed session lowers the barrier to entry and builds momentum.
Silences the Inner Critic: Because editing is discouraged during a sprint, you can focus on progress rather than perfection---which then shuts up that self-doubt.
Increases Word Count: Many writers find that their daily output doubles or even triples with sprinting. Deadlines, schmeadlines!
Enhances Creativity: The fast pace prevents overthinking, which encourages a more intuitive and natural writing style.
The Power of Group Writing Sprints and Body Doubling
Remember when I said doing it with a group is helpful? That's because group writing sprints also add a little accountability into the mix. This practice, often called body doubling, involves working alongside others---either in person or virtually---to increase motivation and reduce procrastination.
Some of the benefits of group writing sprints include:
Increased Accountability: Knowing that others are working alongside you can prevent distractions and encourage commitment to the sprint.
Social Motivation: A shared sense of purpose boosts morale and helps you push through creative roadblocks.
Reduced Feelings of Isolation: Writing can be a solitary activity, but group sprints build a sense of community and support.
Competitive Edge: Seeing others make progress can provide an extra push to keep going. "Wait, she can't already be done with her book! [looking at you, Casie] I've gotta catch up!"
How to Implement Writing Sprints
Set a Goal: Choose a word count target or time limit.
Eliminate Distractions: Close unnecessary tabs, silence notifications, and create a dedicated writing space.
Use a Timer: A simple kitchen timer or apps like Forest and Focus Booster can help keep track of time.
Write Without Stopping: Resist the urge to edit or second-guess. Remember, progress over perfection.
Take a Short Break: Rest between sprints to keep that mental freshness.
Making Writing Sprints a Habit
To maximize the benefits even more (what?!), incorporate writing sprints into your daily routine. Whether it's a single 25-minute sprint each morning or multiple sessions throughout the day, the key is to be consistent.
And don't forget, we have daily live writing sprints in The Fiction Lab! So if you're a member, make sure to stop by! And if you're not? Well, what are you waiting for? Get over here!
This is great! Takes a bunch of pressure off the process!