Improving Your Writing with the OODA Loop and Hedgehog Concept

Your writing doesn't suck.

Your high school English class sucked.

Mental models 101:

— Jamie Russo (@jamierusso) March 23, 2023

The OODA Loop:

OODA is a virtuous cycle to improve your writing.

• Observe your work
• Orient your feedback
• Decide on adjustments
• Act by implementing changes

Use the OODA Loop to become a better writer. pic.twitter.com/0Iy2MkBHVV

— Jamie Russo (@jamierusso) March 23, 2023

The Hedgehog Concept:

Identify the intersection of skills, passion, and value creation.

• Determine your unique writing niche
• Consider the value you bring
• Focus on the intersection

Apply the Hedgehog Concept to find personal fulfillment and create meaning for readers. pic.twitter.com/ighXG4kQY3

— Jamie Russo (@jamierusso) March 23, 2023

The Iceberg Theory:

Reveal a small portion of the story on the surface. Keep the rest hidden.

• Provide essential information
• Let the reader imply deeper meaning
• Use symbolism and subtle hints

Embrace the Iceberg Theory to enhance reader engagement. pic.twitter.com/LRcIy7nIsu

— Jamie Russo (@jamierusso) March 23, 2023

The Zeigarnik Effect:

The tendency to remember unfinished tasks better than completed ones.

• Start multiple projects
• Take breaks regularly
• Return to each project

Use the Zeigarnik Effect to overcome writer's block. pic.twitter.com/jYQ6FiLhHF

— Jamie Russo (@jamierusso) March 23, 2023

SCAMPER:

A creative thinking technique to brainstorm new ideas.

• Substitute
• Combine
• Adapt
• Modify
• Put to another use
• Eliminate
• Reverse

Apply Scamper to continuously generate fresh ideas. pic.twitter.com/bezNQFXB3f

— Jamie Russo (@jamierusso) March 23, 2023

Ladder of Abstraction:

Move between abstract concepts and specific details in your writing.

• Balance themes with examples
• Connect ideas and emotions
• Create a big picture and small details

Use the Ladder of Abstraction to make your writing more thought-provoking. pic.twitter.com/SGkcobKVhD

— Jamie Russo (@jamierusso) March 23, 2023

Shoshin:

Approach your writing with a beginner's mindset.

• Embrace your curiosity
• Question your assumptions
• Be open to feedback

Apply Shoshin to keep growing. Be a learner for life. pic.twitter.com/1crIxeJmLO

— Jamie Russo (@jamierusso) March 23, 2023

The Einstellung Effect:

People rely on familiar approaches, even when better options are available.

• Question your writing methods
• Explore new techniques
• Seek feedback from fellow writers

Embracing the Einstellung Effect will improve your writing exponentially. pic.twitter.com/uHn2naYeXJ

— Jamie Russo (@jamierusso) March 23, 2023

The Writing Flywheel:

Momentum builds over time through consistent effort and small wins.

• Set realistic writing goals
• Celebrate small achievements
• Create a consistent writing schedule

Use the Writing Flywheel to focus on long-term success in your writing. pic.twitter.com/c9rqVa7uOJ

— Jamie Russo (@jamierusso) March 23, 2023

The T-Shaped Knowledge:

Develop deep expertise in your niche while acquiring a breadth of knowledge across various subjects.

• Become an expert in your niche
• Study other niches
• Jack-of-all-trades, master of one

T-Shaped Knowledge creates versatility. pic.twitter.com/XdIx9vs97o

— Jamie Russo (@jamierusso) March 23, 2023

The Johari Window:

Identify your strengths, weaknesses, and blind spots as a writer.

• Seek feedback from peers and mentors
• Reflect on your writing experiences
• Set personal development goals

Embracing the Johari Window supports self-awareness and personal growth. pic.twitter.com/3oSUNiFcw8

— Jamie Russo (@jamierusso) March 23, 2023

The False Consensus Effect:

People assume that others share the same opinions and beliefs.

• Research your target audience
• Develop empathy for readers
• Talk to your readers

Overcoming the False Consensus Effect is the key to relatable writing. pic.twitter.com/sBK1DsLmTp

— Jamie Russo (@jamierusso) March 23, 2023