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Are you looking for a creative boost and some writing inspiration? You’re not alone!
We’ve all had moments where our creativity is at an all-time low, no matter how much we love to write.
But fear not—there are plenty of ways to get those creative juices flowing so that you can get back on track with your writing projects.
Whether you’re trying to write the next big blog post or trying to start a career in freelance writing, every creative writer has this problem at some point in time.
It’s a totally normal, unavoidable, and solvable problem!
Sometimes all you need is a quick, creative exercise to get your brain back on track. Sometimes it requires a big change up to your routine.
Either way, all successful writers have been where you are right now, so rest assured that you will get through this. We’ve got some tips on how to eliminate writer’s block, improve your writing process, and 49 strategies on how to inspire yourself to become a better writer.
Eliminate Your Writing Blockers
The first step to unlocking your writing inspiration is to eliminate the existing blockers in your daily life.
Identify Your Distractions
Before you can start eliminating your distractions, make sure to take the time to identify all of them. Common writing distractions include:
- social media
- multitasking
- television
- phones
- gaming
- household chores
- food
- kids or family members
- and even some of your own thoughts
After you identify common distractions that get in the way of your creative process, you can start to develop strategies to help you stay focused.
Before we get into those specific strategies, let’s talk about how to start building an environment that eliminates distractions.
Build an Environment More Conducive to Writing
Creating a conducive environment to write is essential. Make sure you have everything at your fingertips that you need, such as pens and paper, snacks, water, and anything else that might help you focus and stay in the zone.
Where You Write
The first thing about your environment to consider is your physical surroundings. If you’re easily distracted, it might be better to choose a quiet place with limited disruption.
For some, this may be at home where they feel comfortable. For others, it may be at a coffee shop or library where the distractions of home are eliminated.
What Do You Need to Get in the Zone?
Think about what you need to get in the zone and stay productive. Maybe it’s a good cup of coffee, a change of scenery, or some background noise.
For many people, myself included, a good playlist can help here. Instrumental music, like Explosions in the Sky, can be helpful.
Spotify also has many ‘Focus’ playlists that you can try.
Whatever it is that helps you focus when you write, make sure you have access to those things before you start working.
Writing Tools
Now let’s talk about the writing tools you can use for finding inspiration or just to keep moving forward.
I’m sure you already have your notebook or laptop, pen and paper, and your phone.
Have you tried AI tools for writing?
Using AI is a game-changer in the writing world, as I’m sure you know unless you’ve been living under a rock.
But maybe you haven’t tried it yet because you think there is no substitute for “real writing.”
I agree with you, my friend. That’s why it’s important to think of AI as a writing assistant.
While it can write everything for you, it shouldn’t.
But it can be very helpful to give you prompts and ideas to keep you moving forward. It serves as a great baseline when you write.
Our favorite AI writing tool that we use in our business is Jasper AI.
Whatever tool you decide is best for your creative process, make sure it’s always accessible and ready to go when inspiration strikes.
Improve Your Writing Process
Now that you have the tools and environment, it’s time to focus on improving your writing process.
Set Writing Goals
Setting realistic goals for writing can help keep you motivated and focused on your writing project. This could be anything from dedicating just 10 minutes of each day to write to finding a specific word count goal for yourself.
Whatever it is, make sure that it’s achievable so that you are always feeling successful.
Start Small
If the idea of setting a strict daily writing routine feels overwhelming, start by setting mini-goals for yourself instead.
This can be as simple as brainstorming for 5 minutes at the start of each day to get your creative juices flowing before you write for at least 30 minutes.
Whatever works best for you, start small and work your way up!
Set a Schedule
Having a structured plan can help you stay focused and motivated during your writing sessions.
Set a consistent schedule and make sure to stick to it.
This doesn’t have to be the same every day, but having this structure can help keep you on track.
If you’re more of a Type B person and prefer the motto of “whenever, wherever,” this may not work for you, but it’s still worth a try!
Reward Yourself
One of my favorite tips for getting inspired is to reward yourself with something special when you reach one of your writing goals.
Maybe it’s a cupcake after meeting your daily word count, or even a weekend getaway to celebrate completing your project.
No matter what it is, make sure you reward yourself for doing the hard work!
Use Writing Prompts
Writing prompts are great for finding inspiration and helping you to continue writing.
A writing prompt could be as simple as writing a one-sentence story, or more complex, such as outlining a whole novel in five minutes.
There are many websites with writing prompts that you can use to beat writer’s block or you can use an AI tool like Jasper.
Writing Inspiration: 48 Effective Strategies for Success
These 50 strategies will help you get unstuck and inspired when you write!
1. Change Up Your Routine
If you’re feeling stuck in a rut with your writing process, perhaps one of the best things that you can try is changing up your routine to see if it helps spark some inspiration.
This could mean writing during different times of the day, finding a new place to work, or trying out a different writing tool.
Sometimes it can even be as simple as switching up your workouts or eating something different for breakfast.
You’d be surprised at how “stuck” you can get when you live life on repeat every day. The worst part is, we often fall into this trap without realizing it.
2. Go for a Walk
Sometimes just stepping away from your desk can help you get inspired and give you some clarity on the task at hand.
Go for a walk around your neighborhood or take a break in the park nearby. This will help you clear your head and come back to your write more after feeling refreshed and motivated.
The fresh air will do you wonders and the light exercise will get your blood flowing.
3. Read a Book
Reading books can be great for finding new inspiration. Not only does it help you learn from other authors’ writing styles, but it also helps to give you ideas for your own work.
Reading can help spark ideas and give you some perspective on how other authors have tackled similar topics.
Find a book about the topic that you are writing about or just pick something completely random that catches your eye.
Sometimes reading something unrelated can spark new ideas in ways you never imagined.
3. Listen to Podcasts
Listening to podcasts can be great for finding inspiration and fresh ideas.
Podcasts are a great way to learn from other authors, hear about their stories and what drives them. This will help give you insight and inspiration for your own work.
Plus, it’s an easy way to learn while multitasking. You can listen to a podcast while you’re on the go or even when you’re working on something else.
So, next time you’re feeling stuck, try listening to a podcast and see what inspiration it brings!
4. Do Some Free Writing
If you find yourself uninspired and lacking in ideas, try free writing.
Free writing is a simple exercise where you just start writing without stopping until your timer goes off.
It’s an excellent way to unleash the ideas that have been stuck in your head for far too long.
Rather than editing or filtering what you write, allow yourself to get creative and see what comes out.
You may be surprised at the ideas that come up!
5. Meditate
Meditation is an excellent way to find focus and clarity, which can help you find inspiration and stay motivated when you write.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed and uninspired, take some time to meditate and clear your head.
The practice of meditation helps to reduce stress and anxiety, as well as bring clarity to your ideas.
Meditation isn’t for everyone but anyone can try at least 5 minutes every day. Use an app like Headspace to get started.
If it turns out it’s not for you, that’s okay too!
6. Take a Break from Technology
Although technology can be extremely useful when you write, it can also be a major distraction.
Take some time away from your computer and phone to help clear your head and get a new perspective on life.
Try going on a nature walk or doing something physical like yoga or dancing.
This will help you connect with yourself and get in touch with your inner creative self.
This can improve your ability to write as well as your overall mental health!
7. Exercise
If meditation isn’t your thing, maybe moving is!
Exercise has been proven to reduce stress, boost endorphins and help get your creative juices flowing.
Going for a run or doing some yoga can be great for helping you stay motivated and inspired.
Taking care of your physical health is never a bad idea!
8. Tell Your Friend About Your Project
Talking to a friend about what you’re writing about may also help you find some writing inspiration.
Talking about what you’re writing about can give you a different perspective when you hear yourself talking about it.
You can also get feedback and ideas from your friend as well as another perspective.
Complaining about writer’s block or a lack of inspiration may lead your friend to solutionize.
But simply telling them about your writing subject may spark some real inspiration that can help you.
9. Exercise Your Brain
Playing puzzles and games like crosswords or Sudoku is a great way to challenge yourself and stimulate your brain into creative thinking.
Doing puzzles helps keep your brain active and sharp, which can lead to more creative thinking.
It’s also a fun way to pass the time when you are feeling stuck or uninspired.
You can get a puzzle book online or just download an app on your phone.
10. Try Something New
It’s easy to get stuck in an artistic rut, so why not try something new?
Get out of your comfort zone and explore activities that you’ve never done before.
Not only will this give you something exciting to write about but it might also help you find new sources of inspiration.
Try a new hobby or take up a class in something that you find interesting.
This could range from taking an improv class to learning how to play the guitar.
No matter what it is, trying something new can be great for pushing yourself creatively and finding some inspiration when you write.
11. Take a Vacation
Sometimes we just need a break! Taking some time off work or school can give us the motivation we need to take on new projects with enthusiasm.
It can also just give us a fresh perspective.
Traveling can be inspiring in its own right and you’ll come back feeling recharged and energized.
Take some time to explore a new city, learn about a different culture, or just relax on the beach with a good book.
Whatever you choose to do, taking a break from your everyday routine can be a great way to get some fresh air and great ideas.
12. Listen to Music
Music has a knack for inspiring creativity and getting your ideas flowing. Put on some of your favorite tunes and let them take you away as you work.
Listening to music can help you access your emotions and connect with what you’re writing.
It can also get you in the mood to write.
So, put on something that inspires you and let the music take you away!
13. Learn About Literary Devices
Reading and learning about different literary devices can be a great way to get inspired for your own writing.
Writers use different literary devices like irony, imagery, alliteration, diction, euphemisms, colloquialisms, and more to make their writing more vivid and engaging.
Reading up on these devices can help you find new ways to communicate your message in your own words.
This can be an excellent way to beat writer’s block.
14. Join a Writing Group or Community
Sometimes we just need a little support to help us get through our projects.
Joining an online writing community or a writing group can help you share your writing experience and even help another aspiring writer in the process.
It’s also a great way to connect with creative people who share similar interests as you. You can get valuable advice, feedback, and tips from other writers that can help you on your journey.
15. Visit Museums or Art Galleries
Museums and art galleries are great places for discovering new ideas to change the way that you write.
Take some time to explore these spaces and pay attention to the artwork, objects, or artifacts that you find interesting.
Seeing artwork from different periods of time can help spark your imagination in unexpected ways.
Visiting these kinds of places will also give you a chance to get away from your desk and view the world from a different angle.
16. Give Yourself Time
Sometimes it takes a while for our writing ideas to take shape and become something tangible.
Don’t be too hard on yourself if things don’t come together right away or when your writing style just isn’t working.
Give yourself time to come up with interesting ideas and let those ideas simmer until they become something solid.
The more you trust your process, the easier it will be for inspiration to flow!
17. Write in a Journal
Have you ever considered writing down your thoughts and feelings in a writing journal?
Whenever you get stuck or need inspiration, take some time to jot down your thoughts and ideas.
It’s amazing how much great material can come out of just writing down random thoughts and musings.
Even if these words don’t make it into your writing, they can still help you find inspiration and stay motivated.
18. Talk to Someone You Admire
Talking to someone who inspires you is a great way to get motivated and learn from them.
Whether it’s a writer, artist, or someone in your field of work, take the time to learn from their experiences.
It’s amazing how much creative energy you can get from just talking to someone who has achieved something that inspires you.
Use this new inspiration next time you’re facing a blank page.
19. Blog About It
Many fellow writers are also bloggers. Have you ever considered starting a blog?
Starting a blog can be great for practicing your writing and pushing yourself to come up with new ideas.
It’s also a great way to connect with people who share similar interests as you.
You can even use blogging platforms like WordPress to connect with other writers and collaborate on projects.
You can start writing a blog post about any topics that you’re passionate about or about your own life and writing journey.
It’s a great way to practice your creative writing in a new way.
19. Brainstorm Ideas with Friends
Having a friend around to brainstorm ideas can be incredibly helpful.
Sometimes discussing your writing with someone else can help spark new thoughts and perspectives that you may not have considered on your own.
Talking with others about their experiences and interests can also open up new avenues of inspiration for your work.
It’s always good to have an extra set of ears when you need feedback or advice.
20. Get a Massage
Another creative idea that may sound strange is to get a massage to relieve stress and inspire creativity.
Sometimes all we need is to take a break and relax before we can get push through our writer’s block.
Go ahead and book that massage appointment – your mind (and body) will thank you!
20. Brainstorm Ideas with AI
If you don’t have any friends or family to brainstorm new ideas with, why not try a creative AI?
AIs are becoming more and more advanced every day and can be great for getting quick feedback on your writing.
You can ask questions, run experiments, or just get some advice for finishing up a project.
Using AI to help you stay inspired and motivated may be just the thing you need to get your creative juices flowing.
Jasper and ChatGPT are popular options.
23. Take Notes Everywhere You Go
Inspiration can come from anywhere, so be sure to have a pen and paper or your phone handy at all times.
Keep notes of conversations you overhear, interesting sights you see, or ideas that pop up out of the blue.
You never know when something might inspire you!
24. Rewrite a Classic Story
If you’re feeling stuck or in need of inspiration, why not try rewriting a classic story with a modern twist?
This can be an excellent exercise for honing your craft and developing new skills.
Also, it’s always fun to see how different authors interpret the same stories in their own unique ways.
Give it a try and see what kind of amazing stories you can come up with!
25. Spend Time Outdoors
Spending time outdoors is an excellent way to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and find inspiration in the natural world.
Take a hike, go camping, or just take a leisurely stroll through your local park.
Observe the sights, sounds, and smells around you – these things can be incredibly inspiring and help bring your writing to life.
26. Watch Some TV
Watching movies and TV shows can be a great source of inspiration, but only if you do it consciously – not mindlessly.
Pay attention to the character arcs, storylines, and plot twists – these things can help spark ideas for your own writing.
It’s also a great way to get an idea of how different stories are structured and crafted.
Watching TV can be a great way to find inspiration for your writing.
27. Practice Some Self-Love
We all need to take a break and show ourselves some love from time to time.
Whether it’s taking a long bath, curling up with a good book, or just taking some time for yourself – do something that brings you joy and makes you feel good.
Self-care is essential for staying inspired and motivated in our writing.
So make sure to take the time to give yourself some love!
You never know what amazing things may come out of it.
28. Record Your Dreams
If you’re looking for a truly unique source of inspiration, why not try recording your dreams?
Keep a dream journal, or just a notebook by your bed, to jot down anything that comes to mind when you wake up in the morning.
These dreams may seem strange or nonsensical, but sometimes they can be incredibly inspiring and help you create something truly unique.
Try it out and see what kind of creative juices it stirs up!
29. Take a Social Media Break
Sometimes the best thing we can do for our creativity is to take some time away from social media.
It can be overwhelming to constantly be bombarded with content, so give yourself a break and log off for a while.
Taking some time away can help you find your focus again and find inspiration to write something amazing.
30. Follow Your Curiosity
It’s important to trust your curiosity and follow it wherever it takes you.
Sometimes our minds pick up on things that we’re not even aware of – so follow your curiosity and see what it reveals.
You never know what interesting ideas and inspiration you might find when you let yourself explore.
31. Make a Vision Board
Vision boards can be a great way to stay inspired to write.
Collect images, quotes, or ideas that represent what you want to achieve with your writing.
Having these visual reminders around can help you keep focused on reaching your goals and achieving success.
32. Stop Editing While You Write
Editing as you go can be a huge roadblock for your creativity.
It’s important to give yourself the freedom to experiment and explore without worrying about getting everything right on the first try.
Once you have a complete draft, then you can start editing – but until then, just let your ideas flow freely.
33. Hang Out With Kids
Spending some time with kids is another creative idea to get in touch with your inner child and find inspiration.
Kids are creative, curious, and fearless when it comes to exploring their imaginations – something we all need to tap into from time to time.
So go ahead and hang out with some kids – you just might find the perfect source of inspiration!
34. Let Your Mind Wander
If you’re stuck on an idea, try letting your mind wander.
Close your eyes and imagine yourself in a different place or time – wherever you feel the most creative and inspired.
Allow yourself to explore whatever comes to mind without judgment. This can help you push past your writer’s block and find inspiration to write.
35. Take a Writing Class
Taking a writing class is an excellent way to learn new skills and find inspiration.
Whether you’re just starting out or already have some experience, there’s always something new to learn: techniques, tricks, and fresh perspectives that can help take your writing to the next level.
So don’t be afraid to challenge yourself and step out of your comfort zone – it can lead to some amazing new discoveries.
Try Skillshare or Udemy for some great writing classes.
35. Read Aloud
Reading aloud is an excellent way to really connect with the words and find writing inspiration.
It’s also a great tool for finding errors in your writing or making sure that everything reads clearly and flows smoothly.
So grab a book, find a comfortable spot, and start reading – you never know what kind of inspirational ideas may come out of it!
36. Take a Trip Down Memory Lane
Memories can be a great source of inspiration for your writing.
Take some time to reflect on past experiences, happy moments, adventures – anything that stands out as an interesting story.
Think about how you felt, what you saw, and how it shaped your life.
Reconnecting with these memories can help writer’s block and lead to some truly amazing stories.
37. Write About What You Love
Inspiration comes easily when you write about the things that you’re passionate about.
Find something that excites and energizes you, and use it as a topic for your writing.
This can help keep your enthusiasm alive and bring more creativity to your work.
Focus on what matters most to you. This is often the best source of inspiration.
38. Organize and Declutter
A cluttered workspace can be a major obstacle to creativity.
Sometimes, it’s best to take a step back and organize your space. This can help clear your mind and give you the breathing room you need to get creative.
Set aside some time for decluttering and organizing, and then just see what kind of inspiration comes out of it.
Either way, it won’t be a waste of time and you’ll feel better afterwards.
39. Put Yourself In Someone Else’s Shoes
Another great way to find inspiration is to put yourself in someone else’s shoes and tell their story.
This can be an exercise in empathy and understanding, but it can also provide plenty of ideas for when you start writing.
Add something unique by imagining how the other person would think and feel in different situations.
You may be surprised at what kind of stories you come up with!
40. Go on a Date or Reconnect with a Partner
A romantic evening out can do wonders for your creativity.
Go on a date with yourself or reconnect with a partner – it might just be the inspiration you need to find writing inspiration.
Take some time to talk about something meaningful, share stories, and appreciate each other’s company.
The positivity that comes from these moments can help bring your writing to life.
You never know what kind of inspiration or ideas may come out of it.
41. Talk to Strangers
Sometimes, strangers can be the most inspiring people you meet.
So why not start a conversation with someone you don’t know and see where it takes you?
You never know what kind of ideas or stories may come out of it.
These conversations can offer a fresh perspective on life and be incredibly motivating for your writing projects.
Talk to someone at the local coffee shop or in the park.
You never know when someone else could use the pick-me-up, so you can feel better about it and maybe make a new friend.
42. Get Out of Your Comfort Zone
Sometimes, the best ideas come when you least expect them.
So don’t be afraid to push yourself and step outside of your comfort zone.
Explore new places, experiment with different writing styles, or challenge yourself in other ways – these experiences can open your eyes to some amazing possibilities!
The key is to keep an open mind and be willing to take risks.
43. Make a Deal With Yourself
Sometimes, it can be hard to stay motivated and find the inspiration to write.
So make a deal with yourself. Set a goal for what you want to achieve and then reward yourself when you reach it.
This way, you’ll have something to look forward to and be more likely to stick with your writing goals.
You can also set mini-goals along the way so that you can break up your projects and make them more manageable.
These rewards don’t have to be anything big – just something that makes you feel good when you hit your mark!
44. Play With a Pet
Spending time with animals is a great way to lift your spirits and get inspired.
Pets are often the perfect source of comfort when you’re feeling down, so take some time to give them some love.
Simply playing with or petting an animal can be incredibly calming and therapeutic – it’s also been known to spark creativity in some people.
So if you’re feeling stuck, try taking a break and cuddling up with your pet.
45. Manifest What You Want
When it comes to writing, sometimes the best way to make something happen is simply to believe in yourself and manifest your desired outcome.
Visualize what you want to achieve with your writing and then take steps towards making it a reality.
Believe that anything is possible and you’ll be surprised at how far your creativity can take you.
So manifest your dreams and make them come true!
46. Beat Imposter Syndrome
Imposter Syndrome can be a major obstacle when it comes to great writing, but rest assured that even the most creative people suffer from this.
It’s easy to doubt yourself and feel like you don’t have what it takes, but overcoming this feeling is essential for growth.
Remind yourself that everyone has different strengths and weaknesses and that you have something valuable to offer.
If you don’t believe in yourself, how can you expect anyone else to?
Focus on your strengths and don’t be afraid to take risks and try new things. This will help boost your confidence and open the door for creativity.
47. Appreciate How Much You’ve Already Written
It’s easy to get caught up in the pressure of writing more and more, but it’s important to take a step back and appreciate how much you’ve already accomplished.
Recognize your successes and be proud of what you’ve achieved. It may just be the spark that motivates you to write something new.
This will help build your confidence and give you the motivation to keep going, even when writer’s block strikes.
Remember, even small accomplishments count!
48. Take Up Writing Challenges
Writing challenges can be a great way to find writing inspiration and push yourself in different ways.
Set yourself writing challenges like trying a new style of writing or writing something every day for a week.
Whether it’s writing five short stories in a month or creating a piece of flash fiction every day for a week, these challenges will challenge you in a good way.
These challenges can help you become more comfortable with your ideas and give you an opportunity to explore new topics.
49. Seek Inspiration from Others
One of the best ways to stay motivated and inspired is to seek out advice from interesting people.
Look for blogs, books, or podcasts that focus on great writing, and take time to soak up all the advice and wisdom these experts offer.
You may even find a supportive community of writers who can help you through tough times and inspire you when you feel stuck.
Surrounding yourself with the right people can be a great source of support and an incredible boost for your creativity.
FAQs About Writing Inspiration
How do you get into the mindset of writing?
The best way to get writing inspiration is to take some time to yourself and relax. Going for a walk, listening to music, or taking a few deep breaths can help you clear your mind and settle into the creative space needed for inspiration. You can also read other works that inspire you and find ideas based on what you’ve read. Writing prompts are also a great way to find writing inspiration. Even having conversations with friends and family can get the ideas flowing. Whatever works for you, just be sure to take the time and think about what you want to write.
What inspires a writer to write?
The truth is, it can be different for everyone. Some writers get inspiration from people around them; others draw on their own experiences. Reading books and magazines, playing music, going to the cinema or theatre, looking at artwork – these are all great sources of creative inspiration too. Ultimately though, it’s up to each individual writer to find what works for them and use it to become a better writer.
Do writers love to write?
It’s a complicated question, but many writers do love to write. Writers often search for different sources of inspiration to get their creativity flowing. Whether it’s a walk in nature or a book full of prompts, there are plenty of ways to find writing inspiration. A great place to start is with brainstorming lists – simply write down whatever comes to mind and see where the ideas lead you. Even struggling to come up with ideas can lead to great places. Don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun – great writing should never feel like a chore.
What are the 3 reasons writers write?
The three main reasons why writers write are to entertain, inform, and persuade their readers. Whether it’s a novel, an article, or a blog post – inspiration comes from within us. To really get your creative juices flowing and come up with something unique, try taking a walk outside in nature or looking through books for inspiration. You can also listen to music that gets your blood pumping and your mind focused on the task. Lastly, talking to friends and family can also help inspire you with new perspectives or ideas.
Key Takeaways to Get Inspiration for Writing
As you can see, there are so many ways to get inspired when you’re experiencing writer’s block.
Taking some time off of work and making space for yourself can often make all the difference in finding writing inspiration.
From reading books and listening to music to putting words in a writing journal, there are plenty of ways to get inspired and motivated.
Here are some final tips on how to get inspired:
- Change up your routine.
- Go for a walk or get some exercise.
- Eliminate as many distractions as you can.
- Create an environment that is conducive to writing.
- Set goals if it helps you.
- Consider a break from your laptop, technology, or social media if it helps.
Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you. This journey and the challenges that you face will help you become a better writer in the end!