How I Tricked My Brain Into Writing

November 02, 2023 by Shin Young

I took a break from writing for a few months after getting married. It had a significant impact on my writing habit and growth.

Despite having written over 2000+ pieces online, I failed to write even 200 words for weeks.

I felt like an imposter. Tons of ideas and stories that I wanted to share with my audience were getting rusted. The time was never right to write. I procrastinated. I ordered coffee. I tried writing at cafes and in my office space. I attempted to write with stunning views and facing blank walls.

I procrastinated. I ordered coffee. I tried writing at cafes and in my office space. I attempted to write with stunning views and facing blank walls.

Nothing worked.

Every time I sat down to write, my mind would bring 10 different things to distract me.

After a few weeks of observation, I realized it was less about the surroundings and more about discipline.

I decided to run an experiment by tricking my mind into doing arduous tasks sandwiched by what it likes. I was employing various tricks to outsmart my stubborn and lazy mind. One trick after another.

To my surprise, most of them worked. I could regain control.

I was able to sit for hours and produce 700–1200 words every day without feeling burdened. In fact, I enjoyed it so much that I didn’t have to trick it any longer. The old groove has returned as if it never left. I utilized psychological methods and tricks to make my mind feel at home while writing.

The most challenging part was overcoming the initial mental hurdle. Once I was over it, I could see my creative energy flow like before.