77. Be your own editor
February 7, 2024This could really be seven blog posts but they all came from one 1982 scifi magazine on writer’s block. Robert Sheckley describes a few tricks
1. Return to simplicity.
When he started writing it was easy, as he got sophisticated it became difficult. return to the basics to get back into creativity.
2. Lock yourself in
figure out the idea in your head, then lock yourself in a tiny room with just the basic tools and come out when it’s done.
3. Get a buddy
someone to show your rough work to and hold each other to daily goals.
4. Just write. a lot.
Robert set a 5000 word goal which exhausted him but did break through the block.
5. Make a chart
Chart out your idea as a mind map and look for gaps, connections between the bubbles.
6. Write a simulation
Oh this isn’t a real story I’m writing, it’s a simulation! Yes it has all the features of a story but it isn’t real. It doesn’t have to be good. (The funny thing is, pretending to write is a lot like writing)
7. Listen to your inner critic
Read what you wrote. Your inner critic will say “this sucks!”
“Ok, you reply. How come?”
“It’s too slow I’m bored.”
“How could I improve it?”
“I guess delete the lengthy description of a sunset.”
By listening to your inner critic, you can actually improve your work.
Applying this to animation:
It’s easy to get distracted, just set a daily time with the basic tools.
Visualize your animation with a storyboard instead of a mind map. Focus on the best shots!
Treat your animation as a simulation, not a finished product. This means you can cheat and go fassst.