How to get words on the page - Step 1/5

Lizard Brains don't want you to write

So…you want to write or you’ve flirted with the idea of writing. It could be journaling for yourself, blogging, or a even a novel.

Maybe you seek fame and fortune via Substack like me.

Yet, when it’s time to start, the path is blocked, thorny, uncomfortable. Something always gets in the way.

I get it.

Last week instead of working on this post I did the following:

1. Read multiple blogs on commonplace books and the Zettelkasten method.

2. Downloaded a number of minimalist writing apps for mobile.

3. Tried out a malevolent app that would erase my writing automatically if I stopped typing.

4. Texted a neighbor.

5. Ate Corn Chip Dippers (Trader Joe’s alternative to Fritos).

6. And I played Roblox.

Sounds kinda crazy but I bet you do the same.

Gotta write a complex email? Probably a good time to cut your fingernails.

Need to update your resume? No better time than to just scroll through your Instagram feed.

For those interested in building some writing muscles and putting words on a page, this five step series of posts will help you move forward with an approach that has helped me.

Let’s start.

Step 1. Know Your Enemy

Before you begin, recognize what’s blocking you: The Lizard Brain and Resistance:

The Lizard Brain¹ refers to the primal part of our brains, rooted in survival instincts. It drives fear, safety-seeking, and avoidance of risks. It hates the possibility of social rejection or failure.

The lizard brain is always looking for threats and ways to stay safe. It tells you: “Why risk it? You might write something terrible. Even if nobody will see it. That’s scary. Let’s get some Cheetos and go back to TikTok.”

Resistance² is another obstacle to creative endeavors. It shows up as procrastination, rationalization, self-doubt, or distraction.

It exists specifically to keep you from doing your "higher" work—whether that's art, innovation, or personal growth. It taunts you “Start tomorrow. Today’s too busy. You need better pens first.”

The Lizard Brain and Resistance keep you stuck.

In the next post, Step 2, we’ll meet Neighbor Norma who will help us conquer the Lizard and Resistance.

Until then, here’s a prompt dear readers

What’s one excuse or distraction that always seems to stop you from writing? Is it scrolling social media? Feeling like you don’t have the “right” tools?

Share as a comment or reply to this email.

Recognizing your enemy is the first step to beating it.

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Cover image by Francesco Ungaro via Unsplash

1. Quieting the Lizard Brain by Seth Godin

2. Resistance and Self-Loathing by Stephen Pressfield