Just write: How to stop overthinking your next UX copy lines
Getting all the muscles to start writing UX copy can be tough. And, like a revved-up engine, sometimes it can be as tough to just stop.
With limitless perspectives, the mind should really travel far. It’s up to us which way to go or how we’re going to get there.
However, having endless possibilities could also spiral out into a series of deep insecurities and what-ifs. Overthinking.
How does it look?
Is it done?
Can it be considered as done?
Is it proper?
Ah, yet more questions ensue. Some are necessary, while others are completely irrelevant.
So, before the anxiety and worries culminate into flames, you must know how to stop. All at once. You must set boundaries.
Then, get back to writing again as you like.
Think of it like a switch. You’re supposed to be in control whenever you’d want to start or stop writing the UX copy lines.
Only then, you’ll see that stopping early is as good as starting as soon as possible.
Align the definition of done
Whenever you can, go dive deep into the brief, Jira tickets, kanban notes, or any kind of documentation available. This is the right way to start.
Then, you should be able to envision how the copy might sound. At the very least, it will give you a sense of direction.
Use this vision and align the definition of done. If you think it’s necessary, you can re-clarify the expectations with related stakeholders.
In other words, it’s a way to set clear boundaries on which way to go or where not to step into.
Once you feel that the finalized copy lines have met the definition of done, then you are done.
At Blibli, I take my time aligning with the definition of done. I dig everywhere I could before start writing the first copy line.
Whenever possible, I reach out to inform the stakeholders about my approach. This is super important, yet super effective, to give them a glimpse of what’s going on.
Thus, in turn, anticipating unpleasant surprises.
Set a deadline
Sometimes it’s not about meeting the deadline. Set the deadline.
Rather than keeping the book open for possible variations, yet allowing overthinking it’s best to declare “done” when the time runs out.
The secret lies in self-discipline. You must be able to always say “no” when getting tempted to explore after the time expires.
When there’s still some time left, of course, explore as much as you like.
However, once you’ve run out of time, just stop.
Having been learning this technique over the years allows me to estimate how much work is needed before the time runs out. Combine this with the right context and, voila, you are unstoppable.
You’ll produce the best copy lines and deliver just in time.
Rest and revise
In muscle-building, pumping up the irons is as important as rest.
The same goes for writing.
Always give 100% when writing. Then, leave your first draft for quite some time. Later, circle back to your initial draft and make improvements.
I’d call this “rest and revise”. It should be in a full circle:
Write, rest, revise. Repeat.
Believe me, you’ll find magic after getting to your initial draft after leaving it for a while. However, don’t leave it for too long as there’s a slight chance to be forgetful about it.
Upon revisiting, you’ll see irregularities, anomalous sentences, and, ultimately, possible improvements.
Improvement ideas are good. However, you must also align with the expected deadline and the definition of done.
How I do it at Blibli has always been the exactly same. Resting the UX copy draft is as important as writing one.
It allows me to think clearly and try different approaches after a lengthy writing process.
I’d suggest only doing this when you have the time. Revisiting the draft can be exhausting sometimes.
Do it as long as you have the time.
Wrapping up~
Writing UX copy lines is about planning. And good preparations, too, setting the mind free for a long, exciting adventure.
However, when it comes to thinking too much, it all boils down to this premise: set the boundaries.
I know it might sound contradictory, but believe me, boundaries are needed to navigate effectively through endless copy-crafting processes.
And as long as you know how to stop, how to feel enough, and how to set the boundaries, you are good to go.
Just write. Don’t be afraid, just write. Most mistakes are reversible, and when it isn’t, try better next time! 😆
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