The Scribe Method The Best Way to Write and Publish Your Non-Fiction Book

How to Write Your First Draft (The Vomit Method)

Writing a book can feel overwhelming, especially if you get stuck on making your first draft perfect. The truth is, no first draft is perfect. The key to success? Give yourself permission to write a bad first draft and focus on getting your ideas onto the page.

This is where the Vomit Draft method comes in. It’s the fastest, most effective way to power through your first draft without letting self-doubt or perfectionism slow you down.

Why Your First Draft Doesn’t Have to Be Perfect

One of the biggest myths about writing is that professional authors create brilliant first drafts. That’s simply not true. Even bestselling authors start with rough, messy drafts that need editing. The most important part of writing is getting the words out. Editing comes later.

Barbara Kingsolver puts it best:

“To begin, give yourself permission to write a bad book. Revise until it’s not a bad book.”

When you free yourself from the pressure of perfection, writing becomes much easier.

What Is the Vomit Draft?

The Vomit Draft is exactly what it sounds like—you write without stopping, without editing, and without worrying about quality. Your only goal is to get everything out of your head and onto the page.

Think of it like this: When you vomit, you don’t stop midway to analyze what’s coming out. You just let it happen. The same applies to your first draft. Once it’s all out, you can clean it up later.

The Rules of the Vomit Draft

  1. Write as quickly as possible.
  2. Do not stop to read what you’ve written.
  3. Do not edit.
  4. Keep moving forward until your draft is done.

Say this out loud: “I will not edit my vomit draft until I am done writing it.”

This is crucial. Editing while you write slows you down and makes you second-guess yourself. If you start editing, you will get stuck. Save all editing for later.

Why the Vomit Draft Works

  1. It Stops Self-Judgment

Overthinking leads to procrastination. The Vomit Draft forces you to write without judgment, helping you push past doubts and creative blocks.

  1. It Builds Momentum

Every 250 words you write is a small win. These daily victories add up and help reframe your mindset—you’re not just someone trying to write a book; you’re actually doing it.

How to Find Your Writing Voice

Many authors worry about “finding their voice.” Here’s the secret: Your voice isn’t something you find—it’s already part of you. The best way to bring it out naturally is to frame your writing in one of two ways:

  1. Write Like You’re Talking to a Friend

Imagine you’re explaining your ideas to a close friend. This:

  • Makes writing feel more natural
  • Removes anxiety
  • Keeps your focus on the reader
  • Helps you provide value in an engaging way
  1. Write to Help Someone Through a Struggle You’ve Faced

If your book is solving a problem, imagine you’re writing to someone who is currently struggling with what you’ve already overcome. This:

  • Makes your writing more impactful
  • Keeps you focused on practical, actionable advice
  • Helps you push past fear by focusing on helping others

Pro Tip: Combine these two approaches for the best results.

Common Writing Struggles and How to Overcome Them

  1. Lack of Energy?

Most energy issues stem from fear or anxiety. Check in with yourself—are you taking care of your health? Do you have a consistent writing schedule? These two things will help you stay on track.

  1. Procrastination?

Procrastination is often a sign that you don’t fully believe in your book plan. Revisit your outline. If something feels off, adjust it until it excites you again.

Also, use public accountability. Tell someone you’re working on your book. A little external pressure can be a great motivator.

  1. Should You Write Sequentially?

Most authors do their best writing from start to finish. But if you get stuck, skip ahead to a section that feels easier to write. You can always fill in the gaps later.

  1. How Long Should Your Book Be?

Your book should be as short as possible while still covering everything important. Shorter books:

  • Sell better
  • Are read more often
  • Have a greater impact

The key is focus. Don’t add fluff just to hit a page count.

Final Thoughts: Just Keep Writing

The Vomit Draft method is about progress, not perfection. Your first draft is only the beginning. Once it’s done, then you can refine, polish, and make it great.

So stop overthinking, get your ideas out, and start writing today.

Need more guidance? Download The Scribe Method for free here or grab a hard copy here.