Ten Simple, Effective Ideas to Help you Write

I struggle with writer’s block like you wouldn’t believe. It’s obvious from my blog post dates. I’ll write and post one to two blogs a week for three weeks and then not post anything for another three weeks. It’s terrible for engagement, but sometimes I can’t always control what’s going on around me. When things are in crazy turmoil mode, the last thing I want to do is open up and write after being emotionally and mentally exhausted. However, there ARE a couple of key tricks I’ve learned over the years to get me back into a writing groove! Today we’ll talk about some simple and effective ideas to help you write.

How to Write Again Tip #1 – Jam out to some (productive) music!

I LOVE listening to music while I’m working, but it’s gotta be the right type for you. For me, music with lyrics is actually super distracting, so I’ve cultivated a love for movie and video game soundtracks. The pacing also depends on my mood. Sometimes I need something fast, epic, and powerful, like you might hear during a boss battle or key point in a game/movie. Other times that’s too distracting, and I need a calmer sound, like the rainy season music from Animal Crossing. In any case, I find that listening to music is a great way to get me writing again.

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How to Write Again Tip #2 – Don’t read (while you’re writing)

Don’t read what you’re writing while you write! It took me a long time to move past this, but it’s a huge downer. The first time you’re putting words on a page, they’re probably not going to be great words and THAT’S OKAY. If you read while you write, you’ll get caught up editing rather than continuing on. Get all the words on the page first!

How to Write Again Tip #3 – Block off a good chunk of time

I’m a binge writer. I can’t just “write” for 15 minutes at a time, stop, then come back tomorrow and do the same. I need like a two hour block or something to really settle in. About half of my “writing” time isn’t actually putting words on the page. I’m thinking, planning out, psyching myself up, grabbing a snack, and finally getting to it.

How to Write Again Tip #4 – Read a lot

The best writers are good readers too. I can always tell when I haven’t read in a while because there won’t be any writing inspiration floating around in my head. Reading other people’s posts or books can also help you improve your writing if what you’re reading is high quality.

How to Write Again Tip #5 – When you get tired, take a break

I’m a person that needs breaks. I just am. When I hit a “wall”, I’ve learned I need to just stop instead of trying to push through. When I try to force it, what comes out is usually a mess and I just end up frustrated, and then I’m less likely to pick back up again. Take a break and do something else. See #4 if you need an idea. You can also check out my favorite ways to relax post!

How to Write Again Tip #6 – Get some rest

Just like with work, school, relationships, and exercise, you’re not operating at your best when you’re tired. When I’m low on sleep, my brain just doesn’t operate at a higher level than baseline. My creativity is shot. Make sure you’re sleeping a decent amount if you’re trying to write a lot.

How to Write Again Tip #7 – Stop asking other people to read your writing

Just like tip #2, having others read what you write before it’s done is only going to set you back. You’ll have to wait for them to read and make comments, and then you’ll want to make changes to your writing right away. Just write, and write, and write, and then show it to someone else.

How to Write Again Tip #8 – Close your browser tabs

I get distracted easily. I get particularly distracted when I write, because I usually have a bunch of browser tabs open to my email, twitter, Instagram, or ten other things. Close your browser tabs so you can focus on writing first! Also, you don’t need that Amazon cart right now, it’ll be there when you get back.

How to Write Again Tip #9 – Make sure you’re writing about something you care about

This seems obvious, but you’ll write best when writing about something you care about. You’ll be more invested in how the writing is progressing and have more energy to put into the work. it’ll be clear to you (and you’re readers) if you’re not interested.

How to Write Again Tip #10 – Have fun!

Have fun with your writing. Those are your words on the page. Take pride in them!

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[kofi]