On NOT writing

Writing is a workout, not unlike hitting the gym: you can’t get stronger unless you put the time into actually exercising. You can’t run faster by watching a track meet on TV. You can’t learn to swim by reading listicles about “10 Tips to Master the Backstroke,” but rather, you have to get in the pool, move around, get wet.

There is only one way to become a better writer: write. Although the distinction should be self-evident, too often it is not. Many of us confuse non-writing activities for writing, allowing us to justify using our use of time by saying to ourselves, “but I’m being productive!” Maybe so, but for reference, the following activities are NOT writing:

Talking about being a writer, preferably whilst drinking espresso or craft beer or red wine and smoking a cigarette

Social-networking to cultivate a greater presence on Twitter / Medium / etc.

Fantasizing about having more followers on Twitter / Medium / etc.

Designing your book cover, real or imagined.

Fantasizing the precise word-for-words snippets of praise that Michiko Kakutani will spew forth about your paradigm-imploding work in the New York Times Book Review.

Browsing new releases at your local library / brick & mortar bookseller / Amazon Kindle marketplace, etc.

Practicing lifehacks to ‘awaken creativity’ and ‘maximize productivity’ etc

Reading. Yes, reading. Yes, I’m serious. Yes, that includes reading writers whom you admire and aspire to emulate. Yes, that includes reading books on craft, grammar, plot, character, research, formatting, whatever. Yes, that includes reading this article right now, and any other “inspirational” or “educational” texts on Medium or elsewhere.

Many of these activities canworthwhile in their own right. Reading, in particular is a vital skill for a writer. But if you want to be a better writer, none of these count as your “workout” for the day. Only writing counts. Now, get down and give me 500 words.