7 Ways to Re-Ignite Your Writing
Spring is finally here! That means there is a rebirth, of sorts, as the trees, grass and other foilage come back to life. Even as I grudgingly get out of bed each morning to drag myself to my day job, I can here the birds outside chirping once again – something I haven’t heard in several months.
Much like Spring brings nature to life again, you can do the same with your writing. If you are like me, you probably spent the cold, dark winter reading a lot of books, but maybe not doing a lot of writing. So it’s time to clear out those cobwebs in your brain (a little Spring cleaning) and re-ignite your writing once more!
Here are 7 simple ways you can re-ignite your writing and bring some passion back to your literary ambitions.
1.Write one short story per day: Don’t worry about length or even quality (to a certain extent). Just get a complete story down on paper each day. As long as it has all the elements of fiction, then you’re golden. If you’re lacking for ideas, then buy one of those books filled with story starters, I sometimes use The Writer’s Book of Matches (aff link).
2.Write a story in a different genre: If you normally write science fiction, try your hand at romance and vice versa. Sometimes we become complacent when we write the same types of fiction and it can get, well, a little boring. Switch genres and have fun!
3.Start an idea journal: Buy a small notebook and take it with you where ever you go. Write down descriptions of places, people and things. If an idea for a short story pops into your head, then write it down right away. You’ll be surprised how these little journals can inspire new ideas for fiction in the future.
4.Add some poetry to your day: If you usually write fiction, then dive into the rich world of poetry. You don’t have to be the next Shakespeare, T.S. Elliot, or Robert Frost, just have fun with it. Before starting, head down to your local library or bookstore and get some books of poetry to get you inspired. Experiment with different forms, you might just surprise yourself!
5.Free writing: No, this doesn’t mean you write for free. Rather, free writing is when you sit down with some paper (or at your computer) and just start writing for a set length of time (about 20 minutes is good). The point is to get words onto paper. Don’t worry about making any sense. Write down all the random and fleeting ideas that pop into your head. And if you have no ideas or thoughts, then write about that!
6.Collaborate with another writer: Often writers are solitary creatures. But the give-and-take structure of collaborating with another writer on a project can really be inspiring. You will probably learn a lot from each other and even a little about yourself. The key here is to find someone you’re comfortable with
7.Take a creative writing class: This one takes a little more time than the others, and might cost you a little money. But having a professional instructor help guide your writing can be an invaluable experience. Check out your local community colleges, community centers and even local libraries might offer something. Be prepared for pre-planned writing projects and having several other people read and critique your work.
This list is by no means a complete one. There are thousands (or more) ways you can light that fire in your writing. All you have to do is use your imagination (you did clean out those cob webs, right?). All the ideas above are ways for you to step outside your "comfort zone" and try something new. From my personal experience, when I get into a routine, especially with writing, the quality suffers and I get complacent – not good things for creativity.
What are some ways you re-ignite your own writing? How do you keep the ideas flowing? What time of the year do you do most of your writing? Leave a comment and give us your thoughts.
Note: If you think this post looks a little familiar, then you’re right! I actually wrote a similar post to this exactly 1 year ago today (April 8)! I didn’t plan this, it just kinda happened. Freaky, huh? Anyway, check out my previous post as well, same topic, but very different tips.
P.S. Remember, all those who comment this month are eligible to win a $30 Amazon.com gift card! Be sure and read my simple contest rules.
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Read More: Writing Tips
Great post! You covered everything and I think these are all great ideas, ones I promote all the time
Why, I do believe we think alike!
This was really interesting and useful – great post.
i definitely write more and better in the spring and fall when i can have the windows open, and listen to the world around me. when i need a kick start for my writing i read more. i pick up old favorites, or random new books that peak my interest. i learn a lot this way and find inspiration to start again.
I agree with you that stepping outside of one’s comfort zone is of vital importance in writing (and, for that matter, in life). And, as you said, it’s also important to be gentle with ourselves when the results of such stepping leave something to be desired.
Very helpful and informative post Brad! It’s hard to keep ideas flowing, but I think summer is a great time to write for myself. It’s just because it’s so sunny and bright and relaxing!