Tip #1: “Yes, and” energy

Here’s the thing, folks: you’re never going to start with a refined idea, and then wild it out later. At least, it’s much harder to move that way. The energy you bring in this first gesture, these raw moments, is precious. 

Your zero draft is a chance to say YES to your whimsy, your spontaneous “what if” ideas, and to follow them to their logical end. That’s right, it’s IMPROV RULES baby.

What are improv rules? You can only say YES to whatever has come before, then add to it. This method is called “Yes, and” — simple, right? It can be really challenging, but it’s all about capturing the moment’s energy and running with it. 

For your Zero Draft this July, let it be wild, imperfect, and say YES, AND until the idea has run its course. Then once it’s done (like, in August), you can go back to tame and refine it in your next draft.

But for now, let your story come intuitively and let yourself have fun with it. That wild energy is worth so much.

To prepare for July, why don’t you start practicing “yes, and” energy now? How does it feel? What is challenging about it? What is exciting?