Write Fast: Letter to Yourself

Dear Me – Step 2

Next up, write a first draft of your letter – and do it fast.

Feel free to choose a topic from the box at the bottom of the page. You can revise later, but in “Write Fast,” turn off your internal editor and let the words flow.

Suggested Time for Activity: 15 minutes

Suggested Length: 2 – 3 paragraphs (150 words)

Your first draft can be short or long, depending on how much time you have. Just make sure you start with “Dear Me” and end with a closing signature.

Q. How should I write my draft?

You can compose “Dear Me” directly in your Process Notebook or do the writing in a separate file or on paper. Either typing online or writing by hand is fine.

Regardless of where you write it, put the draft into your Process Notebook when you’re done. Keep in mind that you’re documenting your own process. It’s helpful to look back to see where a writing project began and how it evolves.

Q. Isn’t this just like freewriting?

Freewriting means you write about anything that comes to mind and don’t stop to edit as you write. Because you’re using the letter format, this is not a complete freewrite exercise or the “morning pages” recommended by Julia Cameron of The Artist’s Way.^[1] Still, let your writing flow. Think of this as practice for writing for longer stretches. You’re training yourself to make writing a habit.

Consider doing “morning letters.”

Here’s an idea: If you like this activity, consider doing “morning letters” to yourself every day. To establish a habit, set a timer – say, for 5 or 10 minutes – to “time box” your daily letter writing.

Q. I’m anxious! What do I write about? What if I don’t have anything to say?

Dear Reader, let me assure you: everyone has something to say. I’m fascinated by quotidian details – your favorite candy bar, toenail clippings, leaves on the pavement – all the things writers often assume nobody else cares about. In fact, the opposite is true: small details engage, abstract expressions eye-glaze.

Feeling stuck? Choose one of the suggested topics below.

Writing a letter to yourself can get you to address personal preferences, memories, wishes, different moods, imaginings. It can be inspiring.

Of course, the anxiety of facing a blank screen or page is normal. The trick is to recognize that generating new writing is messy. If this “Dear Me” exercise seems too open-ended, choose one of the suggested topics here.