Summary

The author finds multitasking with voice dictation tools to be a creative and efficient method for increasing writing output while managing physical discomfort and other tasks.

Abstract

The article discusses the transformative impact of voice dictation and control tools on the author's writing process. These technologies, such as Apple's Voice Control and Google's dictation, enable the author to write while engaged in other activities like chores or resting, thereby enhancing creativity and productivity. The hands-free approach alleviates neck pain, reduces procrastination, and allows for multitasking, which the author believes contributes to a more free-flowing stream of ideas. The ability to write in various settings, including while walking on trails, has expanded the author's available writing time and provided a sense of freedom and flexibility in their creative process.

Opinions

The author views voice dictation as a game-changer for their writing process, making it more attractive and less daunting.
Multitasking with these tools is seen as a way to prevent overthinking and fixation on writing challenges, allowing ideas to flow more freely.
Completing chores simultaneously with writing tasks gives the author a sense of accomplishment and confidence, which positively affects their writing.
The author believes that engaging in physical activities like walking on trails while writing can lead to better ideas and inspiration.
The hands-free writing method is considered essential for managing neck problems and ensuring that writing can continue without exacerbating physical pain.
The author expresses enthusiasm about the potential for wireless headphones with built-in microphones to further enhance the flexibility of their writing routine.
Despite the availability of hands-free writing tools, the author admits to still occasionally typing the traditional way but finds reassurance in the option to switch to dictation when needed.

Multitasking Can Be Your Muse

I multitask while I write and it helps me be more creative.

Dictation and Voice Control have been huge game-changers in helping me write more for my business.

Voice Control is the accessibility program on the Apple OS that allows you to use the computer hands-free. It’s easy to use and I love it. I use it on my desktop Mac.

I started using it because I have neck problems that are aggravated by computer use. Very early on in using it, I realized that I can use it to write things and fold laundry or do other chores all at the same time.

I have an Android phone, so I use Google’s dictation tool there.

These methods make writing more attractive, whereas the prospect of handwriting and typing everything is super daunting. As much as I love doing both, it’s not sustainable for me to write these ways all the time.

I’m so delighted to have found alternatives and see how well they’re working for me. I think they could work for a lot of writers and here’s why.

Here are 3 Ways Writing Hands-Free Increases my Writing Output

1. Multitasking prevents micromanagement or procrastination

Multitasking with these tools not only helps me become more productive, I’m also not overthinking and fixating on problems or insecurities, so the ideas flow more freely.

My guess is that completing chores makes me feel accomplished, which increases my confidence. It also distracts me so I can’t get hung up on rephrasing sentences or moving copy around.

And hands-free means pain or the prospect of future pain don’t deter me from writing.

2. I get ideas from what I’m doing while I write

Some of my best creative ideas for writing come to me while I’m doing chores and I harness that while also taking my mind off the monotony of the chore.

Cuddling my dog also brings on ideas and narrative. He’s the cutest, cuddliest muse I could ask for and sometimes I write with dictation while he’s in my lap. Goodbye, writer’s block!

I recently got wireless headphones that also have microphones built in, so I could probably walk around and do things or even leave the room while I’m “typing”.

I live near a bunch of beautiful trails and I get a lot of ideas and inspiration when I’m out there, so I’m strongly considering writing with my wireless headphones as I take a trail.

3. I have more time to write

When I mostly stuck to handwriting and typing, the only way I could physically do enough of that without hurting my neck was to allot a ton of time for rest before and after a writing session.

Now I can write while I’m resting, even if I’m lying down. This eases my stress, too, because I know I can do what I need to do for my business even if I have a bunch of other things to do that day.

It’s still tempting to write the old fashioned way. Right now I’m typing this, not dictating it. But it’s so reassuring that if I feel I need to stop, that doesn’t mean my creativity needs to stop, too.

What tasks would you do while writing hands-free? (Eating cake or playing Tetris both count!)