What does forrester mean when he says that the first step to writing is writing- not thinking abouit what you are going write?

This quote, often attributed to the writer E.M. Forster, highlights a crucial point about the writing process: overthinking can be paralyzing.

Here's what Forster means:

* Thinking too much can lead to procrastination: When you spend too much time planning, outlining, and crafting the perfect opening sentence, you risk getting stuck. The act of writing itself can be a powerful way to generate ideas and find your voice.

* Writing is a discovery process: You may not know exactly what you want to say until you start putting words on paper. The act of writing can help you clarify your thoughts, discover new ideas, and shape your story.

* The first draft doesn't have to be perfect: Focus on getting your thoughts down, even if they're messy or incomplete. You can always refine and revise later.

In essence, Forster is encouraging writers to take the leap and start writing. Don't let perfectionism or fear of failure hold you back. Just begin, and the writing process will guide you.

It's important to note that this advice doesn't mean completely abandoning planning and outlining. Some writers find these stages helpful, while others prefer to jump straight into writing. The key is to find what works best for you.