Hi everyone, here’s another post in my Tips for Staying Motivated series.
1 – Network with other Writers
Meeting with and talking to other writers, either online or in person is an excellent way to motivate yourself. When you feel like you’re at a dead end, talking it out with somebody who understands the situation can really help. Nobody will better understand how frustrating it is to sit there looking at a blank page, than a fellow writer. Other writers can also be a great sounding board for your ideas, frustrations and anxieties.
2 – Take Regular Breaks
It’s easy to fall too far into your work, and become stuck on one aspect of a project. On the surface, this might sound like a good thing, but being so focused on one thing for too long can lead to you being a little creatively stifled and it will show in your work. Moving away and taking a break, even for ten or fifteen minutes can be enough to refresh the synapses and help fresh ideas come forward.
3 – Exercise
If you’re feeling stuck, or you feel as though your ideas are lacking a bit, then go for a walk, or do some other form of exercise. Studies have proven that regular exercise can improve cognitive ability and boosts creative thought.
4 – Remember to Eat
It’s so easy to forget to eat regularly when you’re in the middle of writing an important scene or making sure you have your character’s story arc mapped out properly, but food equals energy, and your brain can not work without it.
5 – Have a Clear End-goal in Sight
It’s important to know where you’re heading with your current project. If you know exactly what you want to accomplish, then you have something to work towards. An overall goal can help you to stay focused and keep you writing.
As always, thanks for reading, I appreciate your time!
Until next time,
George
© 2018 GLT
Categories: Staying Motivated
Great advice! I also like to watch videos of famous authors talking about their process and struggles. It’s helpful to remember they’re real people and were where I am when they started.
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Thank you! Yes, I watch those kinds of videos too and you’re right they do help. At one point or another we’ll all have been in the same boat. Everyone starts out not knowing how to write, but the more you do it, the more you learn and the easier it gets. At least, that’s the theory 😀
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