While our internal editor does serve a purpose, there are times when we simply need him/her to butt out. This is something I struggle with, and I know many others do as well.
We’re so conditioned to having our inner filters switched on – e.g. think before you speak etc, that it’s no real surprise our editor is automatically activated as well when we write. But when you are in the throes of creativity, it can be a problem. He can make you doubt yourself, your processes, slow you down and eat away at your confidence.
I’ve read articles where writers actually name their internal editor – I love that! So, have been thinking. My daughter and I are watching the Netflix series “Lucifer” at the moment, and my internal editor resembles the character Lucifer Morningstar to a T – I wish! But I’m speaking metaphorically of course. He’s annoying, opinionated, self-righteous, and a general pain in the you know what; but ultimately, I know has my best interest at heart. He wants my work to be the best it can, which is fine, but there is a time and place for his contribution. So, how do we put him on a lead and teach him to sit and behave?
Well, practice and perseverance. Here’s a great way to begin.
Through a writing course many years ago, I was introduced to the concept of Morning Pages, and though I have commenced and discontinued these many times over the years, I can attest that they are indeed beneficial. Hence, I’ve started them again. These were first introduced by Julia Cameron, Author of The Artist’s Way, which by the way is another book on my ‘to read list’.
She states –
“You’re trying to catch yourself before your ego’s defences are in place,”
– so, these pages must be done first thing. Early in the morning is when the mind is at its most creative, it’s said, and when our artistic inhibitions are less likely to impede us.
The exercise is to write 3 pages of long-hand writing in stream of consciousness, meaning, don’t think about what you’re writing, just write as things come into your mind. It doesn’t need to make sense and no one is ever going to read it – this is stipulated quite strongly, they are private. And even if you’re not thinking anything, which is unlikely, you still need to keep writing, even if that’s ‘blah, blah, blah’ until something pops into your head. It’s actually quite therapeutic, and I’ve been amazed and at times shocked at what has come out – hence why you don’t show anyone!
It’s an invaluable exercise and teaches the creative part of the brain to let go. You may still hear your internal editor saying ‘Really?’ to begin with, but eventually you learn to gag and ignore him. It takes practice but is well worth it.
