How I Write

Tim Urban: Stop Procrastinating and Make Your Writing Fun | How I Write Podcast

Jan 3, 2024

Tim Urban, the author of 'Wait But Why,' shares his journey from dread to delight in writing, boasting over 600,000 newsletter subscribers. He discusses the balance between personal expression and engaging ideas, revealing how authenticity and humor can transform complex thoughts into relatable stories. Urban also dives into the challenges of procrastination, the importance of creativity without pressure, and the art of authentic writing. Plus, he draws fascinating parallels between writing and music composition, emphasizing originality and personal style.

01:11:50

Creator website

Episode guests

Tim Urban

AI Summary

Highlights

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Developing a distinct and personal voice is crucial in writing to avoid derivative and unoriginal content.

Procrastination in writing can be influenced by fear, lack of confidence, and the allure of more enjoyable activities, hindering progress in projects.

Finding a balance between injecting humor and maintaining a serious tone in writing allows for a more enjoyable and engaging experience, showcasing the importance of mood and emotions in conveying the writer's personality.

Deep dives

The importance of personal voice in writing

The podcast episode explores the significance of having a distinct and personal voice in writing. The speaker discusses the value of avoiding derivative writing and finding ways to express oneself authentically. They highlight the importance of confidence in writing and how it can contribute to more engaging and original content.

Newsletter Writing Style: Bring Emotional Journey of Learning the Topic

01:28

The Importance of Finding Joy in Every Section of Writing

01:00

Avoid writing stuff that’s derivative

02:39

Deciding Which Facts Belong in Writing (Dopamine Hits)

04:01

Intro

4min

The Art of Personal Expression in Writing

28min

The Balance of Ideas and Writing in Engaging Communication

4min

Navigating Procrastination and Creative Confidence

3min

The Art of Authenticity in Writing and Music

11min

Engaging the Past: History as a Thrilling Narrative

21min

The Final Edit: Embracing the Gatekeeper Role in Writing

2min

Tim Urban used to hate writing because he thought it was boring. Now, he has 600,000+ newsletter subscribers, 811,000+ Twitter followers, and one of the most unforgettable (and hilarious) writing styles on the Internet. Come learn how to make your writing fun to read and fun to write.

SPEAKER LINKS:

Website & Newsletter: https://waitbutwhy.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/waitbutwhy

Book: https://waitbutwhy.com/whatsourproblem

WRITE OF PASSAGE:

Want to learn more about the next class Write of Passage?

Click here: https://take.writeofpassage.school/writing-sprints

PODCAST LINKS:

Website: https://writeofpassage.school/how-i-write/

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-i-write/id1700171470

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2DjMSboniFAeGA8v9NpoPv

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DavidPerellChannel/videos