At some point in their creative life, all writers will get into a writing slump, sometimes referred to as ‘Writer’s Block’. Thisis where a writer has run out of ideas or the perseverance to carry on writing.
When this happens, you shouldn’t give up. Instead, you should focus on new ways to capture your creativity again. This article shows 15 ways to keep your creative juices flowing when you’re stuck in a rut. Whether you write poetry, a blog, books or music, these tips will work for anyone who wants to take their writing seriously.
1. Have a quiet place. It is important to have your own space to go to when writing. Make sure it is a quiet place with little distractions or disturbances, so you can concentrate your thoughts on your writing.
2. Write on paper. Computer screens tire your eyes out, and endless typing and sitting in the same chair can get repetitive and give you headaches. Grab a pen and some paper instead of going to your computer- your writing and your body will thank you for it.
3. Increase your vocabulary. Read a page of the dictionary, and remember some of the words. Increasing your vocabulary will help your writing flow better and help give you more ideas.
4. Describe an object in your house. Find something you know, close your eyes and picture it. Then describe it- what does it look like? How does it feel? How did you get that object? Does it have a backstory to it? Use this as a writing exercise to get your mind working, then start into your real writing.
5. Imagine a conversation. Describe a conversation you had with someone recently. Talk about the other person’s body language, their tone of voice and the setting of the conversation as well as writing what was said. This is another creative exercise that can get you on your feet.
6. Read. Read lots of books, and study the way the author writes. Try out some of their methods of writing, and you may find a method for yourself.
7. Get enough sleep and relaxation. You won’t be able to perform at your best if you are absolutely shattered. Give yourself a break and go to bed, or take a bath. Come back again awake and ready for some serious writing.
8. Leave your writing. If you feel like you really have hit the wall, then leave your writing. Go have a cup of coffee, go for a walk and clear your head. Take a couple of hours off and go back to your writing later when you’re feeling more up to it.
9. Keep a notebook in your bag. Always make sure you have a notebook and pen with you in case you’re struck with a lightning bolt of ideas. Write everything down, just in case. The worst feeling ever is when you think of an idea and forget it by the time you get home.
10. Try something new. Do something impulsive, something you’ve never done before. Do something that excites you, then come home and write about it. Trying something new helps give writers big ideas.
11. Write what you know. When you’re going to write about something, make sure you know about it. Research your topics, and research new topics. Find out new things and you may find ideas.
12. Make lists. List anything and everything. You may come across something in your lists that you’ll use in your writing.
13. Have a clean workspace. Having clutter distracts you. Make sure you have a clear space to write so you can focus on your written instead of your mess.
14. Find other creative people. Make friends with people in the same position as you. You could even go to writing classes to make sure you take your writing seriously.
15. Have fun. There’s no point doing something if you don’t enjoy it. Don’t beat yourself up, allow yourself to make mistakes, you’re only human. Love your writing, and it will love you back.
Now you have the tips, some advice on how to carry on. Now it’s your turn. I’ve given you what little wisdom I have, now you must try it and write. Good luck!
