It’s been a while since I last posted here.
Since my last post I’ve had every intention on posting more, but every time I’ve tried it’s not quite stuck. I’d start writing, I’d lose steam, and then I’d just leave it again for weeks.
The lack of inspiration in my writing was frustrating, and it took me time to get it back again, which I think was mostly due to my mental health too. When I last tapered off my blogging, I’d realised that balancing all my creative pursuits alongside writing blog posts and working a full-time job was becoming mentally draining for me, and over time I lost the spark for it.
Which brings me to this post! Staying inspired can be the most challenging part of writing, especially when you’re not in a great mental space. For the first time in a long time I’m in the middle of a writing project I’m really passionate about, and while it took a while for me to get there there were steps I took that I believe really helped me.
So I’m sharing them here.
1. Take a Break
A change of scenery or a break from the daily grind can be a great way to get inspired again. Take a walk, read a book, try a new hobby, practise meditation, or immerse yourself in your favourite self-care habits. Stepping away from your writing routine and from the monotony of daily life can provide a fresh perspective and reignite your creativity. By prioritising your well-being, you can create the mental space needed to approach your writing with renewed energy and inspiration.
2. Immerse Yourself in All Forms of Art
The most common recommendation for writers to find inspiration is by reading, which I most definitely agree with! But other creative forms of expression spark inspiration too. Try visiting an art gallery, watching a movie, or listening to music that evokes a certain mood or emotion. Exposure to different forms of creativity can broaden your perspective and spark new ideas for your writing.
3. Try New Writing Exercises
Mixing things up by experimenting with different techniques can help you find your writing groove. Step out of your comfort zone, and try writing from a different point of view, in a different genre, or using a new format. Perhaps set yourself a goal to write a poem to an abstract painting, or lyrics to an instrumental song? You can even search online for community writing challenges to join in on! Breaking free from familiar patterns and trying something new can do wonders to stimulate fresh ideas and reignite inspiration in your writing.
4. Collaborate with Other Writers
Writing can be a lonely pursuit, but connecting with other writers can help reignite your passion for it. You can connect with other writers by joining a writing group, attending a workshop, or chatting with other writers you know about their work. It can be nerve-racking at first, especially if you’re shy or you’re not confident in your writing abilities, but you will find yourself leaving these sessions feeling invigorated and supported. The exchange of ideas and perspectives can bring about new opportunities for growth and collaboration and help overcome the isolated nature of writing.
5. Set Achievable Goals
Writing can be tough, especially if you’re not seeing the results you’re hoping for right away. If you’re like me, setting goals, creating checklists and then ticking them off can be almost euphoric, so I set goals for everything in my life, including my writing. I have ADHD so I try to keep it small and simple (otherwise I find it too daunting to start), and I celebrate once I’ve achieved it. Currently my writing goal this month is to write 5000 more words on my WIP, and I’ve already completed it, and celebrated with some pastries from my nearby bakery. Celebrating your wins, no matter how small, can be a powerful source of inspiration and keep you going on your writing journey.
For some, reigniting inspiration in your writing journey can be as simple as just taking a break and looking after yourself, but for others it might take a little bit more effort and time to get it back. It definitely depends on your mental health too, so make sure to prioritise yourself every step of the way. The key is to put your well-being first, find what works best for you, and also remembering to celebrate your successes along the way.
I hope the tips I’ve shared are helpful, and if you are lacking in inspiration at the moment, I hope you get it back soon. Happy writing!
What helps you stay inspired?
Aloma Writes 