Writing and Editing are two differt aspects of the same art. Don't let one get in the way of the other.
It’s important to get the idea down on paper so edit your work only when you have completed that first draft. As in brainstorming, let the ideas flow by suppressing that critical part of your brain. Run with the creative side.
The unconscious produces creative, powerful images. It also shuts down if the “critical editor" part of your brain goes to work too soon. If you worry about spelling, grammar, or how to get an agent, you are dissipating your focus and blocking that creative stream.
There are many books written on how to unlock your unconscious and let creativity flow. Many of these ideas can apply to things other than writing. Some suggestions are:
• Brainstorm words or images about your topic. If you aren’t familiar with Brainstorming techniques, I suggest looking at Gabriele Rico’s Writing the Natural Way. For those interested in the short form, the key to brainstorming is to generate ideas, any ideas. So let your ideas flow freely. Don't stop to evaluate their worth. When you can't think of another word, wait a while. Creativity has been known to come in bursts and spurts.
• Write pseudo-code. When I was a programmer (some skills die hard), I wrote skeletons—the opening and closing lines--of each module. These provided the structure for a program. Once these were in place, I went back and filled in the blanks.
• Write with music in the background. It acts as a gray noise and blocks out other distractions. Find the style that you like: Classical, country and western music, heavy metal or jazz and let it play low in the background.
• Get into your own story if you want your readers to do the same. Role-playing will help you identify with your characters.
A writer walks a tightrope when putting words down on paper. Bad grammar, poor spelling detract from your writing. On the other hand, good grammar and correct spelling do not create exciting writing. Agents and editors see far too many pieces that are mechanically correct...and lifeless.
As a writer, your first job is to give your piece life. Edit before this point and you can fall into the procrastination trap. You put off progress while you search for the perfect phrase. It’s like a dog chasing its tail, lot of action but no advancement. Your piece will never get written.
To create the best writing, breathe life into it on the first draft when your creativity flows unbridled. Once you have that first draft complete, go back and massage it, but just enough to make it clear.