Did you know that when you write you are using different parts of your brain for different tasks?
The left brain processes information in an analytical way.
It is good at logic, numbers, and organizing information.
It breaks things down into their tiniest aspects.
It is a microscope.
It is critical. It is harsh.
It is raw. It is brutal.
We're talking real critic here. And it's often said that you are your own worst critic. You can thank your left brain for that.
Left Brain - "But hey, at least I look good!"
On the other hand, the right brain is intuitive. It processes things in whole as opposed to parts. It puts those tiny little pieces together in a rude often d-i-s-j-o-i-n-t-e-d way. It is creative and expressive. Your right brain is a good idea waiting to happen. It's that light bulb. Whenever you feel a rush of rambling thought, your right brain is speaking. So listen up cause that's where your best ideas come from.
Right Brain- "It's hot in here. I think you should take a nap."
And sometimes it's not the most coherent, pertinent, or timely information either. But let it flow anyway.
In order to be an effective writer, both sides of your brain must work together. Ahhhh, but not at the same time. Right Brain is responsible for brainstorming and your first draft. So start in right brain mode and write whatever lands in your mind. Don't stop. And be careful not to let the critic (left brain) intrude. He'll stop the flow before you have a chance to get it all down.
After you've written all you can, enter the critic. Now's his chance to point out the good, the bad, and the super ugly. He's your stylist and he's gonna make your final copy into a money shot. Now that you have your ideas, you can listen to him. He'll edit, check for spelling, logic, content and so on. Right Brain starts the writing and Left Brain finishes it.
Below are some of my favorite left brain quotes about writing --courtesy of my very own left brain--
"What? That makes no sense whatsoever."
"This is stupid."
"That is the worst thing I've ever read!"
"I'm not feeling the vibe here."
"You'll never get published."
"Writer! Ha!"
If you've received similar quotes from your left brain then here's some advice. Muffle the critic until after the rant. And your words will be on their way in no time!
Right Brain- "Did someone say time?"
Sunny's left brain: So lame!
Her right brain: So true!
Posted by: Sunny | August 23, 2004 at 02:14 PM