Brain Dump – Write on the World

Writing and editing involve different cognitive processes that use different parts of the brain. When you write, you typically use your creative and imaginative processes, which are associated with the right side of the brain. This involves generating new ideas, making connections between concepts, and visualizing scenes and characters.

Writing a novel can be like putting a puzzle together without knowing what the final product is supposed to look like. Image generated using artificial intelligence.

On the other hand, editing involves a more analytical and critical thinking process, which is associated with the left side of the brain. This involves evaluating the structure, pacing, and clarity of your writing, checking for errors in grammar and punctuation, and refining your prose to make it more effective and engaging. Editing your work during the drafting stage of the novel writing process can be counterproductive for a few reasons:

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I’ve been writing from a young age and have spent countless hours journaling over the years. However, for some reason I’ve fallen out of the habit in my old(er?) age and tend to only pull out my journal once in a great while when I’m in the middle of something big. Recently, I was reminded by one of my favorite YouTube therapists (licensed), Emma McAdam, of the value of writing to improve mental health. She’s the expert, so I’ll drop her video here and let her give you the details on the science. But I thought I’d also share McAdams’ list to make it easier to refer back to. So scroll down to read more and grab that list.

Emma McAdams’ 6 Ways to Process Your Feelings in Writing: How to Journal for Anxiety and Depression

In her video, McAdams suggests that you spend about ten minutes a day writing with the intent to improve your mental health. It’s important to approach this task in the right way however, as focusing too much on “fixing yourself” can backfire. For example, one commenter says, “Emotional processing is writing what “was” and “is” not what “will be” or is “supposed to be.” When I was unconsciously slipping into problem solving mode or hopeful thinking mode, I tried to fix myself instead of processing my feelings of what made me feel this way. It’s like I gaslighted myself unknowingly.” So be sure to focus on processing and understanding rather than fixing yourself. Understanding leads to acceptance, which then paves the path to healing.

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