I’m a perfectionist. This is a real plus when I’m editing, but not when I’m writing.

Why? Because, as a perfectionist, I don’t want to write anything subpar. Whatever I write must be perfect – the first time.

Of course, that’s unrealistic. Every writer knows that. It can also lead to self-editing while writing, which stifles creativity. That’s why we’re often encouraged to beat writer’s block by slapping down any old thing that comes to mind and whipping it into shape later.

But that strategy doesn’t work for me. I’m a perfectionist! I can’t bring myself to write something considered garbage (or worse).

My “aha!” moment

Thankfully, I had a revelation the other day in a screenwriting class. In the first session, the instructor made a point of telling us to check our perfectionism at the door. Here’s what he said:

“Give yourself permission to write first-draft material.”

Aha! First-draft material! It’s not garbage after all. A first draft is the foundation upon which more drafts will be built, with each one moving the work closer to perfection. Or at least publication.

This goes beyond semantics. I’d say it shows how important labels are, and why it’s good to mix them up in order to reach a wider audience.

So, if you’re like me and you can’t bring yourself to “write garbage,” try this mental shift. Just think of what you’re writing as a first draft of several – or many – and go for it.

Happy writing.