I’m going to be super open here, and let you all know that I intended to actually write a post today, and it was a post that is completely different from this one. As I sat down to get started, I got all up in my head about the other post, even though it’s a grammar topic that I deal with daily in my work. I decided to do a hard pivot, because I figured maybe some of you are also in a place where you’re getting paralyzed by overanalyzing. 

Analysis paralysis happens when you overanalyze a situation to the point of getting completely stuck. No forward momentum is happening, because you simply are too overwhelmed to decide what to do. 

This most often shows up in writing during the first draft, where the impulse to go back and edit each section before beginning to write can be overwhelming.  Here are some things that I do when I’m facing an analysis induced freeze:

📋 Make a list, then prioritize it. What needs to be done now, and what can wait until another day? In writing, this translates to the stage you’re in. If you’re writing your first draft, your most timely priority will always be to get words on the page. Give yourself small, achievable goals. Maybe it’s just to write 100 words today. 

👟 Take a break! This may seem counterintuitive, but putting pressure on doesn’t always produce results. Go for a quick walk around the block or have a dance party in your kitchen. Don’t doomscroll! I often find that getting my body moving even for a few minutes provides a shot of motivation. 

👌Resist the urge for perfection. Done is better than perfect 1000% of the time. That goes for your writing, for my posting, and for life in general. Know that revision can work magic with your words, but we can’t revise what doesn’t exist. 

↪️ Pivot. In writing, if you’re stuck at one scene, pivot away from it. Either jump into your manuscript in a different place, or take your characters on an unrelated side quest to get your creative mojo back. You’ll often be surprised at what you learn. 

🤓 Get professional help. In my case, maybe that means working with someone to help with my social media eventually, if I find myself struggling to balance. In writing, that may mean an editor or a writing coach who cheers you on as you go. 

❓What are some tips and tricks you have for moving past analysis paralysis? I’d love to hear them! You can send me a note or a DM on Instagram! I’d love to chat.

Until next time!

XOXO,

Sam Speed Edits