The “Write Like No One’s Watching” Exercise

This practice focuses on releasing expectations and performance standards along with perfectionism. During 10–15 minutes you'll write without worrying about future readers. No audience. No pressure. No filter.

Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Set the Mood

Take out your notebook or start a new document on your computer.

Turn off distractions. Create a calming atmosphere by lighting a candle or playing instrumental music.

Inform your internal editor that they are not on duty.

Step 2: Choose Your Prompt

Select a topic that resonates with truth or excitement to you. A few ideas:

The truth I’d express if I could speak freely would be…

“Here’s what I’m afraid to write about…”

The part of myself that I keep hidden is…

“I’ve never told anyone this, but…”

Just follow the prompt that immediately grabs you and stop thinking too much about it.

Step 3: Set a Timer (10–15 minutes)

Now write. Fast. Messy. Real. No backspacing. No censoring. No formatting. Ignore grammar rules and sentence coherence during this writing exercise.

Write as if your work won’t be read by anyone else—and even then consider burning it afterwards.

Why This Works

Eliminating the imagined audience removes the performance pressure. That’s when your voice starts to emerge. Your ideas emerge unrefined and uncomposed.

The goal shouldn't be to create something magnificent but to rediscover your authentic voice.

Bonus: Reflect, Don’t Edit

After the time expires stop yourself from making revisions. Instead, reflect:

What surprised me?

Which of my words came across as daring and genuine?

What kinds of emotions emerged?

Choose one or two sentences you want to keep and highlight them. But don’t polish. Let this be wild and unfinished.

Final Thought

Writing without self-consciousness helps establish authenticity in your voice. This exercise demonstrates the value of your authentic voice through even in untidy moments. Maybe especially when it’s messy.

Get real. Get raw. And write like no one’s watching. Click here for a worksheet to start your journey.