Try this writing tip: write slowly on purpose. I know it sounds counter intuitive, but writing can be one of the most mentally demanding things we do. When I’m in the zone and typing at top speed, my brain feels like it’s sprinting a marathon, desperately craving energy to keep all those neurons firing. Sure, there are moments when words flow out effortlessly, but relying on that state sets you up for frustration when it doesn’t happen.

Instead, develop the habit of deliberately slowing down. If you feel resistance—if the words suddenly dry up or you tense with urgency—pause. Step away from the keyboard. Think through the next tiny step, then tackle just that one small piece. You might start glacially, pick up to a medium pace, or even gush again—but when you sense friction, dial back to that deliberate crawl. Writing slowly on purpose gives you room to breathe and sidesteps the blockers that make writing feel like a grind.

Imagine approaching writing the way you’d work on a jigsaw puzzle. You’re sipping coffee, calmly scanning the pieces, trying one, then another, with no rush. That’s the pace to aim for. Even if you can sprint through a draft, force yourself—at least once a day—to move at puzzle speed. It’s a tool in your writing toolbox: the more you practice, the more instinctive it becomes.

Over time, writing slowly not only eases the pressure but also makes the process more enjoyable. You’ll still hit those exhilarating flow states, but you’ll experience far less stress, fatigue, and resistance. When writing feels fun and relaxed, that joy seeps into your words, making your work more engaging to readers. The best writers know when to “dance lightly” and when to rocket ahead—both modes have their place.

So next time you sit down to write, remember: optimizing for ease and enjoyment is just as important as speed. Practice slow writing regularly. You’ll find it not only preserves your energy but transforms writing into something you look forward to—and that’s one of the greatest creative achievements you can unlock.