Stop Procrastinating, Start Writing
Transform procrastination into productivity with the WRITE NOW prompt framework.
Hey there, 👋
We all know that blank page feeling. The cursor blinks accusingly while our minds drift to suddenly critical tasks like alphabetizing our spice rack or color-coding our sock drawer. As a writer, I've spent years grappling with this resistance. Today I have an awesome prompt that will help you to stop procrastinating and get writing.
Here's what we'll cover:
Why traditional "just write" advice often backfires
A flexible framework you can adapt to your writing style
Specific prompts to get you unstuck in 15 minutes or less
How to maintain momentum once you start
The Problem with Traditional Writing Advice
"Just sit down and write" sounds simple. But if it were that easy, you wouldn't be reading this. The challenge isn't knowing what to do - it's actually doing it.
Traditional advice often fails because it:
Ignores the psychological barriers to starting
Doesn't account for different energy levels
Assumes willpower is enough
Treats all writing blocks the same way
Enter the WRITE NOW Framework
WRITE NOW breaks through blocks by working with your brain instead of against it. Pun alert - Here's the framework you can use, ahem, right now:
W - Warmup
Start by setting your environment. This isn't about creating the perfect writing space - it's about working with what you have:
Name your current writing location
Pick a specific time block (even 15 minutes)
List only the tools you need right now
Identify potential interruptions and quick solutions
R - Reason
Define your immediate motivation:
Who needs this piece?
What will completing it teach you?
What's the first positive outcome you'll see?
What happens if you don't write it now?
I - Increment
Break it down to the smallest possible step:
Write just the first sentence
Set a tiny goal (50 words, one paragraph)
Work for only 5 minutes
Give yourself permission to write badly
T - Trigger
Create a starting ritual:
Choose one physical anchor (like making tea)
Pick a focus word
Link writing to something you already do daily
Make one small environmental change
E - Escape
Plan your exit from procrastination:
Complete the statement "I am writing now because..."
Match your task to your current energy
Name your specific resistance
Find the easiest place to start
NOW - Nurturing Optimal Writing
This final step maintains momentum:
Track what worked
Adjust based on results
Plan your next session
Build on small wins
The Framework in Action
Here's the exact prompt to use when you're stuck:
Using the WRITE NOW framework, help me start writing [project type] about [topic].
My current state:
Energy level (1-10): [number]
Main resistance point: [block]
Available time: [minutes]
Current environment: [description]
Generate a personalized 15-minute action plan that:
Addresses my specific resistance point
Matches my energy level
Fits my available time
Works with my environment
Include:
A specific first sentence to write
A micro-goal I can achieve today
A reminder of why this matters now
A clear next step when I finish
Implementation Tips
Start anywhere in the framework - you don't have to go in order
Match your task to your energy level
Keep your trigger consistent
Review your escape plan when resistance hits
Return to warmup if your environment feels off
Common Pitfalls and Solutions
When using this framework, watch out for:
• Making your increments too large
Solution: Make them even smaller than you think necessary
• Skipping the reason step
Solution: Write one specific outcome you want
• Creating complicated triggers
Solution: Pick one simple action you can do anywhere
• Getting stuck in planning
Solution: Set a 5-minute limit for framework setup
Closing Thoughts
Writing doesn't have to be a battle with procrastination. This framework gives you a practical way to start writing in any situation. As always, the key isn't perfection - it's taking one small step now.
Try it today. Pick one element of the framework and use it for just 15 minutes. Then let me know how it goes - I'd love to hear about your experience.
Best,
Andy