The Parallels Between Writing and Fitness: A New Perspective
Written on
Chapter 1: The Connection Between Writing and Fitness
Have you ever pondered the ways in which writing and exercise resemble each other? If you're reading this, it's likely you're a writer eager to enhance your craft. Personally, I identify as a writer—not necessarily a great one, but a writer nonetheless—who also values fitness and well-being. Over the past few months, I've realized these two endeavors are closely intertwined.
Chapter 2: Defining Your Goals
Every fitness journey starts with a target in mind. Similarly, as a writer, you might aim for monetary success, aspire to author a novel, or seek to establish yourself as an expert in a certain area.
Your fitness aspirations could include running a marathon, excelling in weightlifting, or dominating a particular sport, among many other possibilities. Even if your aim is broad—such as wanting to become a better writer or simply to exercise more frequently—what matters is having a sense of direction. If your goal is weight loss, the exercises you choose will differ markedly from those aimed at winning a weightlifting contest.
The same principle applies to writing. If your aspiration is to become a best-selling author, your approach will vary from someone focused on building authority in a technical field. If you're still figuring things out but feel compelled to write, just start writing; practice will enhance your skills, regardless of your ultimate objectives.
Chapter 3: The Importance of Accountability
To keep myself on track with fitness, I enlisted a personal trainer. Without that weekly check-in, I would procrastinate my workouts indefinitely. In a similar vein, I challenged myself to publish daily for 40 days when I began my writing journey.
Regular publishing fosters accountability. If you’re not putting your work out there, where’s the motivation? Perhaps you’re one of the few who can remain accountable solely to yourself—I know I’m not!
Chapter 4: Understanding Progress
Achieving a personal record (PR) every single day isn’t feasible. This is clear in weightlifting but can be less obvious in writing. You won’t create a masterpiece every time you sit down to write. However, consistent practice, even when it feels mundane, is crucial.
You won’t achieve new heights by merely watching others or overanalyzing your performance. You reach your best by showing up daily and putting in the work.
In writing, you won’t produce your finest pieces by just reading or contemplating your next move; you need to write—again and again.
Chapter 5: The Role of Recovery
Rest is just as important as hard work, but it’s vital not to let recovery days disrupt your momentum. Finding the right balance can be challenging. You need to push your limits while also allowing yourself time to recuperate.
Don’t use your need for rest as an excuse to stop pushing forward. On rest days, consider light activities like stretching or walking. For writing, engage in lighter tasks such as commenting on others’ work or exploring different writing styles for fun.
Chapter 6: Join the Conversation
What similarities between writing and fitness have I overlooked? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
Welcome to ‘Hustle & Write’
A publication for busy writers
Read this next!
Sometimes I Write Good Stuff
Sometimes I don’t
Explore five exercises that can help enhance your writing skills, focusing on techniques you can practice daily.
Discover five writing exercises specifically designed for beginners, aimed at laying a solid foundation in writing.