Why writing is like running

1) It works best if you do it in small amounts regularly for a while before trying to do a large amount all at once.

2) Many find it helpful to keep a log of the activity, tracking hours spent or amount accomplished (counting miles or words, for example.)

3) Even those of us with no natural talent can do it.

4) Both are primarily solitary activities. Others can cheer us on our way, but if we need them to motivate us or keep us company, we probably won’t stick with it.

5) To be successful, you must do it even when you don’t want to.

6) If you make yourself do it even when you don’t want to, you may find that you occasionally enjoy it. 

7) Quantity helps a lot: Significant progress can be made simply by spending a large number of hours on the activity over a long period of time.

8) Quantity is not enough: To reach one’s potential requires a plan and a focus on quality.

9) Both require a long-term perspective….don’t expect instant gratification.

10) If you avoid the activity for a month, you will not be able to start where you left off, but you won’t have to start from zero either.

11) People who are good at it can make it look easy—but it’s not.

12) If you really want to do it, you must schedule it and protect that time as an important appointment.

13) Goals, like races and dissertations, are helpful to some, but not everyone needs them.

14) Technology is a nice tool, but it’s fun to occasionally leave it behind. So if it’s been a while since you’ve scribbled on a yellow pad or gone for a run without your Garmin, give it a try!