Use the ‘Yes, and?’ Rule
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The ‘Yes, and?’ rule is a mindset typically used in improv, where performers agree to accept and build upon each other's ideas on the fly. It’s where a comedian will agree (say ‘yes’) to whatever one of their counterparts on stage is doing or saying, then add to it (‘and?’) in whatever way they see fit. Following this rule ensures the live performance is never stalled and encourages real spontaneity and creativity. It’s also a rule that can be incredibly useful when writing, where comedic performances are more negotiable.
The ‘Yes, and?’ rule is especially helpful when writing first and second drafts. It will keep your words flowing onto the page and will allow you to tap into the more creative side of the writing process, as momentum is key when following this rule. You will be able to turn off your inner critic and editor as you write, in other words, because you’ll be more concerned with what comes next as you’re writing, not what you have already written. Instead of perceiving what you’re writing as being static and difficult to change, what you’re writing will become more fluid and malleable as you write because you will be more concerned with adding on to whatever you’ve written, all the while knowing that you can simply edit whatever you’re writing later. And this practice will allow real creativity to surface, as well as allow you to reach a real state of flow as you write.
The ‘Yes, and?’ rule is fun to follow when you’re writing because it offers you freedom from all other writing rules. All that matters when following this rule is that you maintain your writing momentum, and that you just keep writing. It won’t matter if you’re spelling words correctly or if what you’re writing isn’t in the appropriate sequence, or if you introduce a new character, etc. All that matters when following this rule is that you keep writing, no matter what. And doing this will allow you to fall in love with the writing process again and again, where your imagination is ignited again and again, and you feel free to express yourself how you want as it authentically surfaces again and again. Isn’t that why we all want to write most of the time anyway?
Keep in mind that following the ‘Yes, and?’ rule is akin to free writing, though it is more ideal to implement when working on lengthier projects like novels and personal essays, not just small one-off writing exercises. Where free writing is useful when trying to combat writer’s block in general, or when trying to explore what topics to write about next, the ‘Yes, and?’ rule is more helpful for maintaining daily writing goals for larger writing projects and for keeping a lengthier project moving forward so it never stalls. Obviously, however, you should continue to use whatever writing techniques work best for you.
Essentially, following the ‘Yes, and?’ rule is a fun way to enjoy the writing process and maintain momentum as you write— especially when you’re working on larger writing projects— and will ensure you never completely run out of creative ideas or second-guess yourself as you write first and second drafts.
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Today’s Writing Prompt
Writing Prompt: Swimming
Write about someone or something that's swimming.
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