We’ve all had those mornings where getting out of bed to face the day seems like too much of a hassle, and we just want to hide under the covers instead. Nevertheless, there are a few things that we are unable in any way to ignore.
Map out your writing goals to ensure you stay on track.
If you want to write a novel but are overwhelmed by having to write 65,000 words, break down your objective into smaller, more manageable chunks. Identify a daily word count target that you can work toward. Document the total number of words you’ve written at the end of each writing session. Analyze how many people you want to reach with your next blog article and aim to achieve that number. Setting goals is a productive way to motivate yourself to go to work.
Make sure you have dates on which things need to be done.
Deadlines are a great way to get things done. First, grab a calendar and mark out when you want to have each chapter finished, and the entire manuscript written. You’ll be motivated to put in the effort every day if you read this. Imagine you’re writing a report for a client if it helps.
You should write first and edit later.
Jotting down your story is a crucial step in creative writing. Don’t pause to edit when the ideas are flowing. You will lose your train of thought and your forward motion. It’s essential first to write down the story. You’ll be able to undo your previous actions if you decide.
Find a quiet, comfortable place to do your writing.
Go somewhere peaceful where you won’t be interrupted and get your best work done. Ignore the screen and put aside the phone. When writing, some people believe that listening to music improves their mood. You can try it, but if it becomes more of a distraction than a source of creativity, you should turn it off.
Try to enjoy the ride because the travel itself is the prize.
The daunting task of writing an entire novel can leave you feeling stuck. Don’t get so caught up in the finished product that you forget about the writing process altogether. Focus on the process at hand and take pleasure in it.
Take the time to write every day.
Planning your time effectively and setting aside regular writing time will help you develop a productive routine. Treat this time like you would any other appointment, and be sure to log on to your computer at the appointed time.
Alter your way of thinking.
While it’s true that procrastination is a writer’s worst enemy, remember that blockbusters don’t just appear. Remember that writing is the only method to improve your writing skills. Improve your resolve to resist temptation. Instead of promising yourself, “I’ll write tomorrow,” start writing right now.
Take part in a writers’ workshop.
Not always willpower to write will come from writing for oneself. Motivation may help a lot when it comes to your writing. Consider joining a group that gets together regularly. Aside from professional editors, your other students can provide you with invaluable, unpaid feedback on your writing.
Participate in National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo). The first of November each year marks the beginning of NaNoWriMo, a global writing challenge in which participants aim to produce fifty thousand words during the month.
Take a break.
If you’re struggling with writer’s block, take a break from your usual writing activities. Get some exercise, whether that’s walking or running. Sometimes all it takes to unleash your inner artist is a good sweat session. The next day, if that doesn’t work, try again. Listen to podcasts or binge-watch TV. If you use some of your other faculties of imagination, you will come up with something. When you feel inspired, return to your computer and start typing.
Change up your workspace.
If you’re stuck in a writing rut, relocating to a new office space may be just what the doctor ordered to break you out of that rut and energize you to return to work. Every once in a while, it’s a good idea to abandon your home office in favor of a library or café. People-watching can be a great source of ideas for your writing.
Count to eleven and then reverse course.
When you’re in the midst of a writing assignment, try switching topics. If you’re feeling stuck, try changing to a different writing style. If you’ve written your novel to completion and are still itching to put pen to paper, try your hand at a short story.
It’s a good idea for bloggers to contribute to other blogs or websites by writing guest posts. When you need a quick break, log into Twitter and compose a witty message. It can be helpful to shift gears and focus on something completely different temporarily to get back on track.
Use prompts to get you started writing.
Writing prompts an excellent approach to being inspired and starting a story. Most writing prompts take the form of a brief excerpt that the author might use as a springboard for expanding upon. Real-life experiences can also serve as a springboard for creative writing. You can get many story ideas in newspapers and magazines or look online.
Give yourself a treat.
Once in a while, a little inducement can be helpful for a boost of inspiration. Make a deal with yourself to reward your progress while you write, whether it’s a small snack, a cup of coffee, or something else entirely.
Read a book.
Reading might help motivate you when you don’t feel like doing anything. To improve your fiction writing, read a non-fiction book. If you want to shut off your imagination and relax your mind, reading is the way to do it. Reading the works of other writers might give you ideas for your own and provide the drive you need to get down and get writing.
Always keep in mind your original writing goals.
Remember the story you initially set out to tell and the motivation for your writing. Imagine your work-in-progress novel replete with its unique setting and characters. I can only imagine the sense of satisfaction you will have upon completion. Then, return to your seat and resume typing.