Perfectionism can be a writer’s worst enemy, especially in the early stages of drafting. While it might seem like a noble pursuit to make every word perfect, this mindset can paralyze creativity and halt progress. Writers often spend too much time rewriting a single paragraph or questioning every sentence, which can derail their storytelling. But here’s the good news—there are effective techniques for overcoming perfectionism in early drafts, and they can transform your writing process into a more enjoyable and productive experience.
This article will explore strategies to help you let go of perfectionism, embrace the messy beauty of early drafts, and focus on what truly matters: telling your story.
What is Perfectionism in Writing?
Perfectionism in writing is the tendency to strive for flawlessness in every word, sentence, or paragraph, often at the expense of progress. It stems from a fear of making mistakes or being judged, but it ultimately stifles creativity and hinders the completion of a draft.
Signs you might struggle with perfectionism in early drafts include:
- Constantly revising the same section without moving forward.
- Avoiding writing because you fear it won’t be “good enough.”
- Comparing your first draft to polished works by established authors.
Why Perfectionism in Early Drafts is Harmful
While perfectionism might seem like a high standard, it often creates obstacles rather than opportunities. Here’s why it’s detrimental during the drafting process:
- Halts Progress: If you’re fixated on perfecting every sentence, your story may never move forward.
- Kills Creativity: The pressure to be perfect makes it harder to explore new ideas or take risks.
- Drains Motivation: The constant self-criticism can make writing feel overwhelming and joyless.
Techniques for Overcoming Perfectionism in Early Drafts
Perfectionism can stifle creativity and prevent writers from making meaningful progress. Tackling this challenge requires strategies that foster a productive mindset while keeping the joy of storytelling intact. Below are actionable techniques for overcoming perfectionism in your early drafts.
1. Embrace the Concept of a “Messy First Draft”
The first draft isn’t meant to be perfect—it’s a stepping stone to the final product. Writers like Anne Lamott refer to it as the “shitty first draft,” emphasizing that the early stage is about getting ideas on paper, not creating polished prose.
How to Apply It:
- Give yourself permission to write poorly. Remind yourself that every masterpiece starts as a rough draft.
- Set a goal to write a set number of words or pages daily without worrying about quality.
Example:
Imagine sculpting a statue—you don’t start with the fine details; you start by shaping the raw material. Treat your first draft as that raw material.
2. Set Small, Achievable Goals
Overcoming perfectionism becomes easier when you focus on manageable tasks rather than the daunting task of completing an entire manuscript.
How to Apply It:
- Break your project into smaller sections, such as chapters or scenes.
- Set daily or weekly goals, like writing 500 words or completing one scene.
Example:
Instead of thinking, “I need to finish my novel,” tell yourself, “I’ll write the opening scene today.” Achieving small goals builds momentum and reduces the urge to perfect every word.
3. Turn Off the Inner Critic
The voice in your head that demands perfection can be silenced—or at least muted—during the drafting phase.
How to Apply It:
- Write freely without rereading or editing until the draft is complete.
- Use freewriting exercises to practice writing without judgment. Set a timer for 10–15 minutes and let the words flow without stopping to edit.
Example:
If you’re drafting a dialogue-heavy scene, allow characters to speak naturally, even if the wording feels clunky. You can refine it later during revisions.
4. Use Writing Prompts to Loosen Up
Writing prompts are excellent tools for freeing your creativity and overcoming the paralysis of perfectionism.
How to Apply It:
- Dedicate time to warm-up exercises using prompts that spark ideas without the pressure to perform.
- Write something unrelated to your project to remind yourself that writing can be fun and experimental.
Example:
Prompt: “Describe a character’s childhood memory that shaped who they are today.” This exercise shifts your focus from achieving perfection to exploring new ideas.
5. Limit Self-Editing
Editing as you write is a common trap for perfectionists. It disrupts your flow and hinders productivity.
How to Apply It:
- Disable spellcheck or hide the previous text while drafting.
- Allocate specific time for revisions after completing your draft.
Example:
Resist the urge to fix a character’s dialogue mid-scene. Instead, leave a note like, “Rewrite for tone” and move on.
6. Set a Timer to Encourage Flow
Timed writing sessions create a sense of urgency that keeps your inner critic at bay.
How to Apply It:
- Use the Pomodoro Technique: Write for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break.
- Focus solely on generating content during these sessions, with no interruptions for editing or overthinking.
Example:
If you’re stuck on a scene, set a timer and challenge yourself to write nonstop for the allotted time. You may surprise yourself with the progress you make.
7. Rely on Placeholders for Unfinished Ideas
Perfectionists often get bogged down in details they can’t immediately resolve. Placeholders allow you to keep moving forward.
How to Apply It:
- Use brackets to note missing details, like “[Describe setting here]” or “[Insert witty dialogue].”
- Return to these placeholders during the revision process.
Example:
Instead of agonizing over a character’s name, write “[Name]” and focus on advancing the plot.
8. Celebrate Progress Over Perfection
Acknowledging your accomplishments, no matter how small, helps shift your focus from flaws to growth.
How to Apply It:
- Keep a journal to track your daily word count or milestones.
- Reward yourself for reaching goals, like finishing a chapter or achieving a word count target.
Example:
Finished a scene? Treat yourself to your favorite snack or a short walk. Positive reinforcement makes writing more enjoyable.
9. Adopt a Growth Mindset
Perfectionists often view mistakes as failures. Adopting a growth mindset allows you to see imperfections as opportunities to learn and improve.
How to Apply It:
- Reframe challenges as learning experiences.
- Remind yourself that even the most successful authors started with flawed drafts.
Example:
When you struggle with a scene, think of it as a chance to experiment with different approaches rather than a sign of inadequacy.
10. Share Your Work for Feedback
Perfectionists may fear judgment, but constructive criticism can be invaluable.
How to Apply It:
- Share your draft with a trusted writing group, mentor, or friend.
- Ask for specific feedback, like suggestions for character development or plot pacing.
Example:
Sharing an unfinished scene might feel intimidating, but fresh perspectives can highlight strengths and areas for improvement you might have overlooked.
11. Use Positive Affirmations
Sometimes, overcoming perfectionism requires rewiring your mindset with positivity.
How to Apply It:
- Repeat affirmations before each writing session, such as, “Every word I write brings me closer to my goal.”
- Write these affirmations on sticky notes and place them near your workspace.
Example:
Affirmation: “I am a writer, and my words are valuable. My draft doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to exist.”
12. Look to Successful Authors for Inspiration
Learning from the experiences of accomplished writers can motivate you to embrace imperfection in your drafts.
How to Apply It:
- Read interviews or memoirs where authors discuss their writing journeys.
- Remind yourself that rough drafts are universal, even for the best writers.
Example:
J.K. Rowling’s original drafts of Harry Potter were far from perfect, yet they laid the groundwork for one of the most beloved series in history.
By incorporating these techniques, you can overcome perfectionism and approach early drafts with confidence and creativity. Remember, the goal isn’t to create a perfect first draft—it’s to get your ideas onto the page so you can shape them into something extraordinary later.
FAQs About Overcoming Perfectionism in Early Drafts
1. What causes perfectionism in writing?
Perfectionism often stems from internal and external pressures. Internally, writers may have high expectations for themselves, fearing failure or criticism. Externally, societal influences, such as comparing your work to published authors or feeling the need to meet certain industry standards, can add to this pressure. Many writers mistakenly believe their first draft should mirror the quality of polished, final manuscripts, which is unrealistic and counterproductive.
Perfectionism may also be rooted in a desire to avoid mistakes, stemming from experiences where errors led to judgment or rejection. Understanding these causes is the first step in addressing them.
2. How can I stop editing while drafting?
Stopping the urge to edit mid-draft requires discipline and a shift in mindset. Start by setting clear goals for your writing session. For instance, aim to write 1,000 words without looking back. Consider turning off spell-check or hiding your previous paragraphs to avoid temptation.
Use freewriting techniques where you allow your ideas to flow without concern for grammar or structure. Remind yourself that editing is an entirely separate phase. It’s helpful to repeat affirmations like, “I can fix it later,” to reinforce the idea that drafts are meant to be messy.
You can also set a timer—commit to writing for 25 minutes straight without stopping. By the time the timer rings, you may find that the need to edit has diminished, and your focus has shifted to generating content.
3. Is perfectionism ever helpful in writing?
Perfectionism can be helpful, but only in the right context. During the revision and editing phases, perfectionism can drive you to refine your work, ensuring every detail aligns with your vision. It pushes writers to analyze their prose critically, identify inconsistencies, and polish the final manuscript.
However, in early drafts, perfectionism does more harm than good. The key is knowing when to switch gears—focus on creativity and flow during drafting, then embrace precision and detail during editing. Think of perfectionism as a tool: wield it at the right time to enhance your writing, but don’t let it dominate the process from the start.
4. How can I practice letting go of perfectionism?
Letting go of perfectionism takes time and practice. Start small by experimenting with short freewriting sessions. Set a timer for 10–15 minutes, and write whatever comes to mind without stopping to correct mistakes. Accept that the goal isn’t to produce perfect sentences but to get ideas on paper.
Another exercise is to deliberately write something you know is “bad” or “messy.” For example, write a cliché-filled paragraph or a silly poem. This helps you detach from the need for perfection and reminds you that writing is about experimentation.
Consider adopting a mantra, such as “Progress, not perfection,” and repeat it whenever you feel stuck. Over time, these practices can help you build a tolerance for imperfection and reduce anxiety around making mistakes.
5. Should I worry about grammar and spelling in my first draft?
No, grammar and spelling are not priorities during the first draft. The focus should be on capturing ideas and building your story. Minor errors are inevitable and easily fixed during revisions.
Think of your first draft as a foundation—it’s not about perfection but about laying down the structure of your story. Focusing too much on grammar and spelling at this stage can interrupt your flow and stifle creativity. Let the story take center stage, and save the technicalities for later.
6. How do professional writers handle perfectionism?
Professional writers often recognize that perfectionism can hinder productivity, so they employ strategies to combat it. Many adopt the “write first, edit later” philosophy, focusing on getting words down without overanalyzing.
For example, Stephen King writes a set number of words daily, emphasizing progress over perfection. Similarly, Jodi Picoult famously said, “You can always edit a bad page. You can’t edit a blank page.” These practices remind writers that the first draft isn’t the end—it’s just the beginning.
Professional writers also acknowledge that their first drafts are often rough. By understanding this, they allow themselves the freedom to explore ideas without fear of judgment.
7. Can I skip scenes I’m stuck on?
Yes! Skipping scenes is a valid and often helpful strategy. Writing out of order allows you to focus on the parts of your story that inspire you the most, which can maintain momentum and prevent frustration.
For instance, if you’re struggling with a slow-moving exposition scene, jump ahead to an exciting moment like a climactic confrontation or a pivotal character reveal. You can always return to the skipped scenes later with a clearer sense of direction and motivation.
Using placeholders, such as “[Insert fight scene here],” can also keep your draft moving while acknowledging the gaps to fill in during revisions.
8. How do I balance creativity and structure in early drafts?
Balancing creativity and structure requires a flexible approach. Start by outlining your story loosely to provide a framework while leaving room for spontaneous ideas. For example, map out key plot points or character arcs, but don’t restrict yourself to a rigid plan.
During drafting, prioritize creativity—let your imagination take the lead. If your story deviates from the outline, embrace the changes and see where they lead. Structure can always be adjusted during revisions.
Think of your draft as a rough sketch: capture the essence of your story first, and refine the details later. This balance allows you to maintain a sense of freedom while keeping your narrative on track.
9. Can perfectionism affect productivity?
Absolutely. Perfectionism often leads to procrastination or writer’s block because the pressure to get everything “right” can feel overwhelming. Writers may avoid starting a project out of fear of failure or waste hours revising the same paragraph instead of progressing through their story.
To combat this, remind yourself that perfection is unattainable in the early stages. Focus on making incremental progress rather than achieving flawless results. Breaking your work into smaller tasks—like writing 500 words a day—can also help you stay productive without becoming paralyzed by perfectionism.
10. What’s the best advice for overcoming perfectionism?
The best advice for overcoming perfectionism is to embrace the imperfection of the first draft. Allow yourself to make mistakes and prioritize progress over perfection. Remember, the first draft is for you; it’s a space to explore ideas, develop characters, and find your story’s voice.
Surround yourself with encouraging reminders, like quotes from authors who struggled with perfectionism but succeeded by focusing on the process. For instance, Neil Gaiman advises, “The process of doing your first draft is not to get it right, but to get it written.”
Finally, treat writing as a journey, not a destination. Each draft, revision, and edit brings you closer to your finished work. Celebrate every step along the way, and don’t let perfectionism overshadow the joy of storytelling.
Also Read: How to Write a Novel from Start to Finish: The Complete Guide
