ITL194: When to Trust Your Gut (And When Not to)

On this week’s episode, I answer a listener question about creativity and when you should go with your instincts or take others’ advice.

 

We all have people who we lay our stuff out for.

• There are a handful of people in my life who I will read something to occa
• I thought it was odd to read it out loud, but I’ve started hearing about a lot of authors who have a couple people they read to.
• It’s easier for an author just to read it himself, but when I read it out loud to someone, it lets me read in a different way than if I were alone or proofre
• If I can read it to you and you totally get it, then I know that if you read it, there won’t be any problem at all.

 

With almost every project there will be a point where I get a little too creative, and I don’t mean that in a good way.

• As a comedian, I wrote a joke that I thought was very funny (and I still think it’s funny).
• I tried it four or five times and it became very obvious that it’s not as good as I thought.
• If one or two out of ten don’t like something and you believe in it, stick to your guns.
• If eight, nine, or sometimes even six out of ten don’t like it, at least consider they may be on to something.

 

Tune in to the full episode to hear Andy’s “overly creative” joke; Andy’s biggest pet peeve when it comes to writing technique; and why “a good imagination is like a great stallion.”

 

Questions for Listeners

Do you have a question? Call in and your question might be featured on the show!

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