Chapter 1: Understanding the Writer's Mind

What’s the most effective approach to foster a writer’s mindset? Recent scientific research has provided significant insights. In 2014, neuroscientist Katharina Erhard utilized MRI technology to analyze the brain activity of numerous writers as they engaged in creating fiction. The study comprised both full-time writers and those who pursued writing as a hobby.

Conducting this experiment presented unique challenges. Dr. Erhard had to ensure that participants were not using electronic devices, as this would interfere with the MRI equipment's magnetic readings. Instead, the research team designed a specialized writing desk equipped with mirrors, allowing writers to see their work during the scan.

Volunteers began by copying a paragraph to establish a baseline for observing brain activity during writing. Following this, they were provided with the opening line of a short story and tasked with completing it.

During the brainstorming phase, the hippocampus—an area linked to memory and learning—was activated, indicating that creative writing relies on previous experiences and knowledge. However, a stark difference emerged when comparing the brain activity of seasoned writers with that of amateurs. Full-time writers displayed heightened activity in the caudate nucleus, a brain region associated with reward, motivation, and pleasure.

This groundbreaking research marks the first instance of scientists quantifying the differences in brain function between professional writers and hobbyists. Essentially, professional writers have a fundamental need to write.

The caudate nucleus is crucial for self-care, activated by fundamental needs like food, water, and social interaction. It encourages behaviors that are beneficial, reinforcing positive habits. When you eat the right amount, it rewards you; however, it becomes inactive with overindulgence. Similarly, if you develop a routine of exercising, the caudate nucleus will become more active each time you engage in that activity.

The activation of this region during writing suggests that the brains of professional writers are signaling, “Great job for writing, you talented individual!” In contrast, novices are merely concentrating on producing text without the same level of reward.

If you find it difficult to ignite your writing career, here’s some encouraging news: by consistently writing enough to form a habit, you can create a positive feedback loop that motivates you to continue writing.

Unless, of course, you succumb to self-deception.

One significant reason we fail to achieve this rewarding cycle is that we mislead our brains into thinking we are being productive. Daydreaming can trick your brain into rewarding you for work that hasn’t been completed. Instead of engaging in actual writing, you might find yourself lost in thoughts.

Research by Dr. Gabriele Oettingen from New York University reveals that individuals who fantasize about their goals tend to perform worse than those who maintain realistic expectations of success.

The distinction may seem minor, but it carries substantial weight. Fantasizing enables you to bypass the necessary hard work, indulging in unearned feelings of accomplishment, which ultimately robs you of a valuable opportunity.

In a 2002 study, Dr. Oettingen surveyed 360 students aiming to secure jobs, pursue romantic interests, or prepare for exams. Participants assessed their likelihood of success and penned visions of what life would be like after achieving their goals.

Unsurprisingly, those with realistic expectations were more likely to succeed, while those who crafted detailed future scenarios were less likely to attain their objectives. Two years later, participants who had vividly imagined themselves working for a Fortune 500 company had submitted the fewest job applications, received the fewest offers, and held the lowest-paying positions.

This highlights a crucial lesson: action always outweighs daydreaming. Sometimes it takes rigorous research to validate what we already intuitively know.

Whether you identify as a writer or aim to double your social media following in the next month, it’s time to stop imagining the adoration of millions. Rather than dreaming of success, focus on creating a concrete plan to reach your goals, and then take actionable steps to realize them.

If your goal is to become a writer, there’s one essential action to take: dismiss unproductive thoughts and write.

I learned about Dr. Erhard’s MRI studies comparing professional and novice writers through my exploration of writing psychology on Koala Quest—the world's coziest search engine.

Chapter 2: The Power of Action Over Fantasy

In this insightful TED Talk, Tim Urban delves into the psychology of procrastination and explores how our minds can hinder productivity.