What I Learned About Writing from ‘Temple Run’

Ever since I was a kid, I enjoyed playing video games. So when I noticed my little niece visually engrossed in a new game on her Ipad, I immediately headed over to have a look. She was playing ‘Temple Run’; a running game that she thought was awesome.

Of course, I had to try it too. I quickly downloaded Temple Run (and subsequently Temple Run 2), by Imangi Studios and played my first game; and I loved it!

The game is addictive. I found myself playing it over and over again.

After a while, I felt somewhat guilty spending so much time on a ‘game’ when I should be doing something more worthwhile with my time. I soon pushed such righteous thoughts aside and reminded myself how I was actually helping a brave soul escape the clutches of a nasty big bird which was following her around relentlessly!

I was completely and totally hooked on the game, and why not; it has fantastic visuals, engaging sound effects, and a difficult trail full of challenges and dangerous barriers, leading you to the ancient Temple where lies the sacred Idol.

Interestingly, I could see a lot of similarities between the journey of the runner in Temple Run, and my own journey as a freelance content writer.

Here’s What I Learned About Writing from ‘Temple Run’

1. It is Essential to Be Consistent

The runner must cross different levels in Temple Run 2 to reach the ancient temple. The only way to cross levels quickly is to run consistently. The faster and farther she goes in her journey, collecting ‘Coins’ on her way, the sooner she will complete daily / weekly challenges and move a step closer to her goal.

Maintaining consistency in writing is essential for a writer too. The more often you write, the better you get at writing; a great way to polish your craft. By putting your ideas, opinions and experiences on paper on a consistent basis, you will find that your thoughts begin to flow easily without any interruptions.  

2. It is Important to Take Chances

As the runner runs with all her might, there are glistening green, larger-than-life ‘Gems’ hanging in mid-air, up for grabs. Gems can ‘Save’ the runner every time she falls off the bridge or when she’s attacked by the big bad bird! Additionally, it will cost you 1 Gem to have a go at a RESPIN if you are not satisfied with your reward at ‘SPIN THE WHEEL’. Of course, you’ll have to make her jump up high just in time to grab that gem.  

As a writer, you must be willing to take chances. Don’t hold back from pitching for a wonderful writing opportunity just because you’re second-guessing your abilities as a writer. Don’t let the fear of failing deprive you of an invigorating writing journey.

3. It is Crucial to run from your Inner Demons

The moment the runner slows down, loses focus and bumps into barriers, the monkey / big bird catches up on her prey. To keep on moving forward through the different levels of the game, the runner must take long strides and jump to avoid falling in the gaps.

Writers too, must run as fast and farther away from their inner demons, waiting to over-power their confidence levels. Self-doubt, drawing comparisons with other, more successful writers and fear of failure are inner monsters every writer must avoid; on a daily basis.

4.  It is Okay to Take a Break

Temple Run 2 provides a ‘Pause’ feature to freeze the game in the middle of the run and resume running whenever you are ready – a great way to give your runner and your fingers much-needed rest.    

Content Writers need breaks too. Hours of non-stop writing can leave you feeling tired and drained. It’s okay to take short breaks in between your days work. Whenever you feel you are lacking the drive to fill a blank document with relevant content, take a break to recharge your tired batteries! Chances are high, you will come back to work feeling motivated!

5.  It is Necessary to Get Back Up, Every Time you Fail

Even though I was playing the game well, setting new High Scores and breaking my previous records, I found that the runner would, sooner or later fall, slip or surrender to the mighty bird. I took a moment to calm my frayed nerves. I understood that falling off the bridge was a part of the game. The important thing was to get back up and start running again.

Every writer must have the courage to face failures, and the motivation to get back on the job with a renewed sense of commitment. There will be issues to deal with – low motivation days, self-doubt, criticism, dissatisfied clients. The important thing is to accept these problems as an inevitable part of your job and just write.

How do you deal with difficulties in your line of work? Tell me about it in the comments section below.