The power of (free-)writing

Freewriting (or free-writing) is one the most powerful techniques for self-coaching I have come across. I use it often to gain clarity on anything that bothers me or that I need to figure out.

In general, writing can do so much more for us than just putting words on paper to convey a specific message. Writing also gives us the opportunity to heal.

Why writing?

Writing is more than a way to communicate with each other. It is also a way to express ourselves. When we write, we show a glimpse of who we are to the outside world. And because writing is so personal, it can also help us to work through personal challenges. 

Writing is a way to slow down an endless stream of thoughts. By focusing on the words on paper, we automatically slow down and focus our attention. This slowing down increases our inner clarity, widens our perspective, and decreases our mental load. It is a way to put words to emotions and actions that can only happen through slowing down and writing.

Why free-writing?

Free-writing is a way of writing that is both structured and full of surprises. While you are writing with a purpose, it also enables you to break through writer’s block. You will gain a wider sense of self through free-writing.

Free-writing is personal and confidential. Whatever you write, you write for yourself. No one will read it and there is no pressure to ‘get it right’. Once you have stopped writing, you can decide what happens next: re-reading and editing or disposal and even burning. 

The sole purpose of free-writing is to gain clarity on a specific issue, question, or trigger.

How to free-write 

I have recorded an online class dedicated to teaching free-writing after giving the workshop multiple times in person. Check out the online version here or get in touch if you are interested in a personal session.

In essence, free-writing is timed writing with a prompt and a purpose. It’s best done with pen and paper. While you write, you don’t re-read and you don’t edit. You begin writing and write down everything and anything that comes to mind. When the time is up, the pages are full, or you have reached your word count, you stop. At this point you may re-read but you can also decide to stop there and never look at your writing again.

If you want to take on free-writing for your self-coaching practice, below are some initial prompts. Use them as your starting point for more clarity, personal development, and insight into why you do (or don’t do) things you do.