The simple advice "Just write." is dished out plentifully in writing discussion boards (especially those frequented by many aspiring writers).

Although it can be hard to hear for a beginner, I believe it's worth internalizing. It is relatively easy to come up with excuses for not writing. What's hard is writing despite it all. Being able to do so is invaluable.

What are your thoughts on this mantra? Criticisms? Perspectives? Stories? I'd like to know.

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[–] [S] 2 points 7 months ago* (1 child)

On a mostly unrelated note, do these two phrases mean the same thing?

  1. "excuses for not writing"
  2. "excuses not to write"

I had used the second form in my first draft. I changed it as I'm not sure it's grammatically correct.

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  • [–] 2 points 7 months ago

    They're pretty close. Both could be applied to an individual or group. I'd say the first is more general and the second is targeted/specific. Ex:

    "I don't want any excuses for not writing.'

    vs.

    "You don't have any excuses not to write."

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