Writing Tip: Using Writing Sprints (with videos)
This could technically be part of the writing tip series (so I put it in the title), but this is something I’d rather share now instead of waiting for that day to roll around. Especially since I’ve been working on adding my videos to YouTube and here on my website this week.
I’ve been doing writing sprints during the past year, any time I’m feeling stuck or when I don’t have a lot of time but need to get a lot of writing done. I’m the type of person that associates sounds and music with my life, and my writing projects are no different. I have specific playlists or albums I listen to while I’m writing certain books or scenes, and I got into making these writing sprint videos for myself with curated vibes/ambiance. That way I can create the mood I need—using the music or soundscapes to do so—much more quickly than if I were to try to just sit down and get to work. It’s a brain hack that’s worked for me, and I realized I could just share some of the soundscape videos I’ve created. I’ve made loads just this past week. Might as well share them in case they help others, too!
What is a writing sprint?
A writing sprint is where we sit down for (short) predetermined amounts of time, with the sole focus being on writing for that duration. Then, we take a break and do it all over again as many times as possible, or until we’ve accomplished what we set out to accomplish. Sometimes that’s finishing a scene, or reaching a certain word count. Often it can simply be to break through writer’s block.
Benefits of Writing Sprints
Increased Productivity
Short, focused bursts help us achieve more in less time.
Enhanced Creativity
The various sounds create the perfect atmosphere, enhancing creative flow.
Time Management
Breaking writing into manageable sprints promotes effective time utilization.
Reduced Procrastination
The structured format keeps us accountable and minimizes distractions.
Enhanced Focus
Ambient and nature sounds (and music) create a conducive environment for concentrated writing.
How do I do my writing sprints?
Settle into my writing space. This means grabbing whatever I want close, before I even begin… drinks, blanket, candle, whatever I need that day to feel totally comfy and settled.
Hit play and immerse myself in whatever ambiance fits my mood, or the mood of the scene I’m working on.
Write for however long I’ve predetermined, without distractions—let the magical sounds and music fuel my creativity. I usually do 10, 15, or 30 minute sessions.
Take a 5-minute break to rest, grab a drink, go to the bathroom, etc. I take 10 minutes if I’m doing 30 minute sprints.
Repeat the sprints as many times as I want, or until I’ve reached my goal.
Whether I’m working on a novel, a blog post, or any writing project, writing sprints are a great way to make progress in a short amount of time, which helps me feel more accomplished and confident. I don’t even remember who suggested this to me, or where I learned about them first, but they can really be a game changer and lots of writers use this technique.
I’ve included a few of my writing sprint videos here at the end of this post, but head on over to YouTube or THIS PAGE if you want to see more, or if you want to find the one that fits your current mood/project. I’ll be releasing at least one a week on my YouTube channel until I’ve gotten all of them up and posted (adding them here on my website as they go up on YouTube). Maybe I’ll even take requests at that point.
Happy writing!
