This is more than a belief—it’s my mantra, the core of everything I teach and practice as a screenwriter. Writing, even at its most challenging moments, should come from a place of joy.
Why? Because the energy we put into our work shapes what it becomes. If we write with ease and excitement, our stories become vibrant and alive, drawing readers into worlds they’ll want to explore. But if we write from a place of frustration, that negativity seeps into the story, and no one—not even us—will want to stay in that world.
The Struggles Are Real—But Keep Them to Yourself
Let’s be honest: writing isn’t always easy. Sometimes it feels like wrestling a bear, and sometimes it feels like the bear is winning.
But our struggles should remain invisible to the audience. Your readers (or viewers, if you’re a screenwriter) don’t need to see how hard it was to craft the story. They should only feel the joy, the ease, and the magic of a narrative that flows.
So Where Does Fun Come From?
The key thing here is your excitement. When the story you’re telling truly excites you—when it’s brimming with meaning and value for you—that excitement fuels the entire process. Even when the writing gets tough, that energy will keep you going.
Think about a story idea that’s been nagging at you, the one that makes your heart race a little when you imagine it on the page. That’s the story you should be writing.
Another thing is excitement in general. If you feel happy, the sun shines above you, and you’re full of positive emotions, you write vividly, more interestingly, and faster. So, if you want to be productive, stay in a positive mood as much as you can.
In my book, First Draft Survival Guide: Practical Steps from a Working Screenwriter, I share practical ways to harness this excitement and turn it into momentum—even during tough moments.
Why? Because the energy we put into our work shapes what it becomes. If we write with ease and excitement, our stories become vibrant and alive, drawing readers into worlds they’ll want to explore. But if we write from a place of frustration, that negativity seeps into the story, and no one—not even us—will want to stay in that world.
The Struggles Are Real—But Keep Them to Yourself
Let’s be honest: writing isn’t always easy. Sometimes it feels like wrestling a bear, and sometimes it feels like the bear is winning.
But our struggles should remain invisible to the audience. Your readers (or viewers, if you’re a screenwriter) don’t need to see how hard it was to craft the story. They should only feel the joy, the ease, and the magic of a narrative that flows.
So Where Does Fun Come From?
The key thing here is your excitement. When the story you’re telling truly excites you—when it’s brimming with meaning and value for you—that excitement fuels the entire process. Even when the writing gets tough, that energy will keep you going.
Think about a story idea that’s been nagging at you, the one that makes your heart race a little when you imagine it on the page. That’s the story you should be writing.
Another thing is excitement in general. If you feel happy, the sun shines above you, and you’re full of positive emotions, you write vividly, more interestingly, and faster. So, if you want to be productive, stay in a positive mood as much as you can.
In my book, First Draft Survival Guide: Practical Steps from a Working Screenwriter, I share practical ways to harness this excitement and turn it into momentum—even during tough moments.
Joy Breeds Creativity
When you’re having fun, you’re freer to take risks. You can let your imagination roam, and your characters become more authentic and engaging.
This freedom and creativity are what bring your story to life. And when readers or viewers encounter it, they’ll feel that same energy—it’s infectious.
Final Thoughts
As you sit down to write, remember this: if the story excites you, you’re on the right path. The fun you have while writing will shine through in the final product, and that’s what will keep readers coming back for more.
So, let me ask: is your writing fun?
If this resonates with you, there’s more where that came from. My book, First Draft Survival Guide: Practical Steps from a Working Screenwriter, dives deeper into how to write with joy, overcome obstacles, and create stories that resonate. It will be out in March 2025
Want more tips to get started? Download my free guide, “10 Must-Have Steps Before Starting Your First Screenplay,” by subscribing here! bit.ly/screenwriting-guide Stay tuned for updates!
When you’re having fun, you’re freer to take risks. You can let your imagination roam, and your characters become more authentic and engaging.
This freedom and creativity are what bring your story to life. And when readers or viewers encounter it, they’ll feel that same energy—it’s infectious.
Final Thoughts
As you sit down to write, remember this: if the story excites you, you’re on the right path. The fun you have while writing will shine through in the final product, and that’s what will keep readers coming back for more.
So, let me ask: is your writing fun?
If this resonates with you, there’s more where that came from. My book, First Draft Survival Guide: Practical Steps from a Working Screenwriter, dives deeper into how to write with joy, overcome obstacles, and create stories that resonate. It will be out in March 2025
Want more tips to get started? Download my free guide, “10 Must-Have Steps Before Starting Your First Screenplay,” by subscribing here! bit.ly/screenwriting-guide Stay tuned for updates!