As writers, we often develop routines that align with our personal rhythms. Some of us adhere to strict schedules, dedicating specific hours each day to writing. Others aim for a certain number of writing hours per week, while some prefer to write spontaneously when inspiration strikes.
Personally, I usually plan my blog posts well in advance. I select a topic early, allocate time each day to develop it, and ensure ample opportunity for editing and refinement. This approach provides me with a sense of control and confidence in the quality of my work.
However, this week, I’m stepping out of my comfort zone. To rekindle my creative spark, I’m experimenting with a new approach: writing this blog post on the very day it’s scheduled to go live, with minimal time for editing. Will this time constraint fuel my creativity, compelling me to write more authentically? Or will it hinder my process, making this a one-time experiment?
The first challenge I encountered was creating an appealing featured image. Typically, I allocate ample time for this task—sometimes finalizing it quickly, other times revisiting and altering my initial choice after a day. However, under today’s time constraints, I couldn’t afford to be overly selective. To expedite the process, I utilized Grok’s AI image generation feature, which allowed me to generate images based on my specific prompts. After a few iterations, I selected the most fitting image. This approach not only saved me time during the week but also ensured I had a suitable featured image without the usual prolonged deliberation.
Now, I want to share how this experience makes me feel. Back in school, I often procrastinated on projects. That approach contrasts with how I usually handle my blog posts—I plan ahead and take my time. So, perhaps writing spontaneously today will come naturally?
I must admit, it feels refreshing to just start typing without overthinking, letting the words flow freely. However, I’ve already revised this section a few times. Why? Because it didn’t align with the structured flow I usually aim for in my posts. Initially, it felt like a collection of words rather than a cohesive piece.
Exploring this approach is intriguing. Typically, I don’t allow myself to write freely without a plan; I prefer to outline and then refine. When I’m in the zone, I continue writing as long as possible—or as time permits. This experiment shows me that sometimes, it’s beneficial to start writing, see where it leads, and then revise. After all, editing is part of the process. So why not let the words flow as they come to mind?
This experiment sparked a thought: Have I been approaching my writing the wrong way all along? The answer is no. There’s no definitive right or wrong in writing. It’s about finding a balance and discovering what works best for you.
Mixing up your approach can sometimes enhance your writing or provide new insights. If I were to completely abandon my current method and always write spontaneously, it wouldn’t necessarily make me a better writer. My usual process—engaging in creative thinking and determining my direction before I start—serves me well about 95% of the time.
However, for that remaining 5%, especially when I’m feeling stuck, embracing spontaneity might be beneficial. Even if the result isn’t perfect, it’s okay—no one else has to read it unless I choose to share.
This idea doesn’t just apply to writing. I chose writing today because it’s my current focus, but the principle extends to any area of life. After reading this, ask yourself: How can I challenge myself to break out of my routine?
Give it a try, observe the results, and reflect on them. Even if the outcome isn’t what you hoped for, it’s never a waste of time. At the very least, you’ll gain a better understanding of yourself—what works for you and what doesn’t. This self-awareness can be invaluable for the future, eliminating those lingering “what if” questions.
Today’s challenge was to write a blog post with minimal time left—and I enjoyed it more than I expected.
I’m considering trying other challenges in the future to see what outcomes they bring. If you have any suggestions or would like to share a similar experience, feel free to reach out to me on X or send me an email.
And in case you’re curious, I finished this with two minutes left. Talk about a close call!