The Mechanics of Monster Whispering

We’ve discussed what it means to talk to your monsters, and why writing and journaling works best, but how, exactly do you have a conversation? What kind of frame of mind do you need to be in? Just HOW are you supposed to actually DO this?

Yeah, I started that way too.

One thing before you start, though. If you’re unfamiliar with stream-of-consciousness writing or auto-writing, you have to get a little grip on this first. Morning Pages work on this concept. It’s writing whatever comes into your head without censoring or editing yourself. No scratching out, no erasing, no thinking about the next sentence structure. Just write and don’t stop. If you do find yourself stopping, just write the last word or sentence over & over until you become unstuck. Kinda like a broken record that skips and then plays itself out.

And I know some people love step-by-step instructions so I’m going to tell you exactly how I whisper to my monsters:

1. Get a notebook specifically for monster communication/wrangling and a fun pen to write with (we’ll have some journals specifically for monster whispering soon). I love the Pentel Slicci or UniBall Jetstream. Sometimes I even write in fountain pen. Yes. I am a pen junkie and no, there are no 12-step programs…
2. Get comfy. Monster wrangling can be draining, so you need to make sure your chair is squishy enough for your comfort.
3. Breathe. Take a few deep breaths. In for 3 counts and out for 3 counts.
4. Focus. Think about something that’s stopping you. Hone in on the Anxiety Gremlins or that voice that tells you you’re no good. Thats’s the monster.
5. Start writing. I usually do my monster whispering in my Morning Pages where I’m already writing whatever pops into my head. You can incorporate your monster whispering in your own morning pages or you can just start by describing what it is you want to do and what’s stopping you. Ask questions. Don’t, however be confrontational. Be gently curious. Monsters will be unhelpful if you don’t whisper. Here’s an example:
   

   I have a huge project I really want to do. I’ve started the planning, I wrote down all the things I want to do, but I just can’t get started! Every time I do, my brain just shuts off. I get tired, or distracted. I love my new project. I think it’s going to rock when I’m done but I just can’t do it? Why?  What’s stopping me?

6. Answer the questions. It may seem a little funny at first, but answer yourself. I usually ask “What’s stopping me?” and answer it. Try and detach yourself from the whole situation and become a note-taker. Just write down the conversation as it happens, and don’t interject.
7. Call in the troops. When things get hairy, you may need to call in a negotiator or mediator on your behalf. If you start feeling scared, angry or annoyed, you may want to let a mediator take over the questioning. Remember, monster whispering requires calm and patience. The monster may run off or clam up at any sign of antagonism.
8. Thank your monster. Everyone likes to be appreciated. Monsters included. So when you’re done with your conversation, or when you reach a point where you need to stop, thank the monster for its time and honesty.

So there you go. Eight steps to talking to your monsters.

If you try this or if you’re a monster whispering pro already, let us know how you do, if you encounter any blocks or whatever. We’re here to help!
photo credit: juliejordanscott

Tagged as: Fountain pen, monsters, morning pages, stream of consciousness, whispering, Writing