Even the most prolific writers feel stuck at one point or another. But it’s not in your best interest to wait for inspiration to strike, as you never know what you’ll discover when you sit down to write. Show up to the page first and foremost, and try some of the tips below to get started.
Develop a Consistent Writing Practice
Create a healthy, balanced, and sustainable practice that you can realistically maintain. There’s this idea that you have to write 5+ hours a day to excel—and if you can, that’s great—but for many of us, that’s not doable.
Aim for consistency (but be flexible too—sometimes life happens). Twenty minutes a day, for example, is a great place to start. Dedicate the time you can; you can always scale back or write more.
Determine a time and place that works for you. I like to write in the morning before work with my first and second cup of freshly ground coffee. But I like to mix it up and write at a park or café sometimes too. I’m most alert and contemplative in the morning.
Some people prefer page or word count goals, but I like to use time-based goals to remove the pressure. After all, some days you’ll hate everything you write, and that’s okay.
If you’re writing, you’re improving. Write, edit, repeat, and be kind to yourself in the process. More on the page means more to work with.
Use Writing Prompts
Prompts are also a great way to tap into the thoughts that stem beneath the surface. While I used to resist them, I find they help me get outside my head, give me new ways to look at old poems, etc. And they help me remind myself to have fun and find joy in the process. You don’t have to follow the prompt word for word; consider it a springboard.
Poets & Writers has nuanced, compelling prompts for poets, fiction writers, and narrative nonfiction writers.
Stay Engaged
Sometimes it’s helpful to put the pen down and draw inspiration from an intriguing novel, film, work of art, etc. Consider what compels you and why.
Consider what you’re thinking about when you’re not trying to write. Take a walk and think. It’s helpful to have a notebook or your phone on hand so you can jot down interesting thoughts when they come your way.
Find a Creative Community
Join a writer’s group and/or share with friends. Reading other people’s work cultivates creativity and is a great source of inspiration. You can also ask your friends and fellow writers for feedback. You’ll see so much that you didn’t before. You can do this through a local group or on a social media platform like Reddit, Facebook (writer and editor groups), Threads, Instagram, etc.
Contact me if you’d like additional tips and tricks, and best of luck with your writing.
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