Inspiration. What is it, where does it come from, and how can you - the writer - trap it in a jar and spread it across your blank pages?
Well, much like advice on how to write in a specific genre, you can only advise so much before you hear a chorus of voices say; “Hey, this isn’t working for me, what do I do now?”, and you realise that there’s no one size fits all for something as vast as inspiration.
Regardless, we’ve tried our darndest to come up with some general advice for how to get the gears turning if you’re well and truly stumped…
Change of Scenery
So, you’ve been staring at a blank page in a tiny room for God knows how long, and you can’t even formulate a simple sentence. Our advice? Get out of that room. Take your eyes off the page, quit breathing that stale air and head out into the great outdoors, whether it’s the concrete jungle or the sprawling wilderness. A slow, relaxing wander around can really help clear the head, and once your head is clear, you can let some new ideas sink in.
Just Write
One not-so-productive writing habit that we’re all guilty of is snuffing out a story in utero just because we don’t like the way a sentence reads, or because we’re daunted by the prospect of ironing out a kink in the story or filling in a plot hole. Lots of successful authors tote a piece of golden advice for times like that, and we’re going to relay it to you now; just write. If you can get to the end of the page, or even the end of a chapter or short story, then you’ve made it over the first hurdle. You might not love every sentence, you might think “Hmm, I don’t like that character’s name” or “How am I going to incorporate themes into this”, but just keep going until the end, and at that point, you’ll have a rough draft that you can re-shape to your liking. Having something complete- no matter how skeletal- in front of you can help you form a wealth of new ideas.
Read!
As a writer, the first thing that ever inspired you to do what you do was likely a reading experience that you had. If you haven’t picked up a book in a while, maybe return to an old favourite and re-discover what made you love it so much, or maybe delve into a newer title to see if you find yourself falling in love with a new book, author or genre. From there, you can find inspiration for your own work.
Look to Other Mediums
In the spirit of the last bullet point, finding inspiration in other artistic mediums is a great way to go as well. Movies, music, theatre, and especially visual art such as painting can be a great way to germinate a seed of inspiration.
Most importantly, properly address your writer’s block
We’ve all had this… it can be unbelievably frustrating. There are many tips on the internet to beat this, but we’ve gone one step further. To properly address this concern, we spoke to our authors who have experienced writing block and would like to share with you how they’ve overcome it!
Free-write
Rather than writing your book, start writing freely. One good way of doing this is picking one word and writing a short story about it. Even for half an hour or so. Don’t worry about punctuation and context. It’s all free, it starts the train of creativity again.
Reading books that inspired you to become a writer
When you’re having a slow period, look back at the books that inspire you. For example, Hunter S. Thompson’s work is flooded with creative thoughts. Reading him makes us want to write. So, pick up your favourite book!
Having a walk
It’s sometimes good to just get away from writing for a little while. Going for a walk refreshes your mind. Also, it can inspire new ideas and thoughts. Seeing nature bloom, birds flying and breathing in fresh air will declutter your mind.
Be energetic
Releasing endorphins by getting yourself moving is hugely beneficial, not just for writing but lifestyle in general. Practice yoga as part of your writing life; it’s calming and will help you focus. When you’re relaxed, your mind is more open.
Start a Dream Diary
If your writers’ block is caused by lack of ideas, we recommend keeping a notebook by your bed. When you have a fantastic dream it’s so common to forget it. So, write it down. Some of the best books come from dreams and day dreams.
Play Video Games
This gets a lot of hate. Video games are great for creativity, and puzzle games in particular are fantastic for this. It’s also a great way to remove tension and divert your mind.
Watch TV or Film
Also, similar to video games, TV and film can really ignite creativity and can even just be a great escape. Watching many indie programs, nature documentaries and genres similar to the one you’re writing in can actually make you more interested in continuing to write.
Go to a café
Sometimes a change of scenery can really help. Getting out of your house / office You get a whole bunch of unexpected inputs that change your perspective for the moment (i.e. snatches of conversation, the music, odd paintings on the wall). Also, coffee is great or a relaxing camomile tea. It brings out the writer and poet in you.
Treat yourself
Sometimes we all just need a little treat to keep us happy. As Dale Cooper would say, “Every day. Once a day. Give yourself a present.” Do the same! Even if it’s something simple; a new air freshener for your car, a tie, a fresh cup of coffee, a piece of cake or a new book. Something small to make a huge difference in your mood.
Re-read your writing
Sometimes reading your own work is enough to get the creative waters flowing again. You will feel hopefully proud and it can make you want to continue!
Remember, there’s no real need to write at this moment. Don’t force it. If you feel sluggish and not inspired, take a break! You can return to it when you’re feeling more like yourself!
Inspiration comes in stages and the journey you take to write your book, despite it’s peaks and troughs, will be one you won’t regret taking!
