I’ve done the mantra: I’m a brilliant romantic comedy novelist, with a plot that rivals any rom-com flick. But I’m staring at my page like it’s my ex at a wedding. Fear not! Enter the glorious 100 words a day rule.
- Freshness Guaranteed: Writing a mere 100 words daily keeps your story as fresh as a just-picked daisy. It’s like a romantic date with your characters—short, sweet, and filled with the thrill of “What will they do next?” No stale ideas allowed!
- Zero Pressure, Full Laughter: 100 words is about the length of a well-crafted text message. Suddenly, writing feels less like an Olympic event and more like a friendly chat.
- Consistency is Key: Just like love, writing needs consistency. A daily dose of 100 words makes sure the romantic entanglements stay with me – in a good way – for the rest of the day. I find myself daydreaming about plot twists and clever punchlines, even while folding laundry or waiting for your coffee to brew.
I’ve been experimenting with writing this way for a while, and I’ve got to say, it’s been a blessing. 100 words is something that I can manage before a lesson, or in the five minutes before school pick up. It’s a little boost that reminds me, on days when I’m overwhelmed and don’t want to engage, that there is something in the tank that is left for me, not the taxman, or the kid-wonder, or even the dog. My island of 100 words.
There is a downside however and that is THE FLOW. 100 words can be a bit like making a 16 point turn in a tight cut-de-sac – you never get a chance to get out and onto the open road. So it can be little limiting in that respect. but 100 is better than nothing. And very often, having removed the pressure of a sky high word target per day, the prose just goes. On the last few days with the sweet luxury of time and space, I’ve been writing 1000 words without any stress. Similarly, on days when it isn’t happening, 100 keeps my hand in the game.
If your writing is a guilt-trip, because you never prioritise it, or because, let’s face it, you’re scared to start, 100 words a day might just be the entry level exercise that you’re looking for.
Stef Is Writing 