Can Scribblers Be Cool?

I was just scrolling through takeaways from the recent research regarding traits of the universally "cool.” Most scribblers probably consider coolness as a litany of impressive credits, an OG Rolodex of powerful contacts, or a carefully crafted aura.

But science can now quantify coolitude as six traits that cross cultures: extraversion, hedonism, power, adventurousness, openness, and autonomy.

What if practicing these traits could transform your scribbling and your career?

Extraversion - Room Presence

You don't need to be loud to be heard. Extraversion is contributing ideas because they're valuable, not for the airtime. It's asking the questions everyone's quietly wondering about.

Why it works: People start genuinely listening. Your words land with clarity, not ego.

Try this: Stop waiting for the perfect moment. Share that connection you just noticed between two story beats. Asking your comrades, "What if?" out loud.

Hedonism - Creative Joy

Cool scribblers don't just endure the process; they savor it. They get hyped about solving narrative puzzles and nailing the perfect dialogue couplet. They never lose touch with what made them want to be a scribbler in the first place.

Why it works: Readers feel the difference between a script that was lovingly crafted vs. one that was just hacked out.

Try this: Notice what actually excites you as you write, a character turn, dialogue flow, plot twist, and lean into it hard.

Power - Story Authority

Scribbling power isn't about control. It's about knowing exactly why you made each narrative choice and being capable of defending your decisions without getting defensive.

Why it works: You accept notes sans anxiety because you're solid right down to your storytelling core. Execs and Producers will sense your strength vibes immediately.

Try this: Prior to your next notes session, scribble down three emotional truths your story must preserve to remain worthy and relevant. Use these as anchors for any negotiation.

Adventurousness - Creative Risk

Cool scribblers don't settle for the obvious choice. They take creative leaps driven by curiosity. Not as reckless lunges, but smart stretches. They pursue intriguing and unconventional ideas.

Why it works: Your scribbling feels unique and irreplaceable. Range expanding with every risk.

Try this: Next creative choice, pick the more intriguing risk over the safe bet. Scribble the spec script you're actually excited about. Not a safe facsimile of yesterday’s trope-trove.

Openness - Collaborative Growth

Cool Scribblers don't cling defensively to every word. They remain ever curious and responsive to feedback and critique. They see notes as fun, creative puzzles, not personal attacks.

Why it works: Your work gets better. Collaborators trust you.

Try this: In your next feedback session, genuinely embrace that one annoying note you hadn't even considered. Treat it like an exciting challenge to overcome.

Autonomy - Authentic Voice

The foundation on which everything else builds. Cool scribblers make choices driven by a unique internal clarity, not imposed by the latest market trends or external pressure. They trust their creative instincts and aren’t afraid to walk away when something doesn't feel right.

Why it works: Your personal work carries an authenticity that will resonate and endure.

Try this: Before starting any new project, scribble down one revelatory paragraph about why this story matters to you. Keep it handy for perusal when the industry noise goes to 11.

After a few decades in H-wood, I've collab’d with scribblers at every level. Million-dollar spec sellers, Emmy and Oscar winners, rising stars, seasoned career vets. The coolest weren't obsessed with their optics and industry-trade ink. They didn't need to act impressive and present as being high-profile because their craft and character spoke louder than their IMDB credits.

Scribes who spend the most energy performing as being "cool" are typically the most unsure of their ideas. The truly cool stay focused on the work, quietly confident, and authentically engaged.

Being cool isn't about imitating David Mamet, Shane Black, or Drew Goddard. It's about accepting, honoring, and trusting your own scribbler’s voice and vibe.