Progress has stalled on our latest writing project. We avoid our desk, tamp down the guilt, and stay busy doing anything but writing. Another day slips by with few words on the page. What’s an anxious writer to do?
Try these 5 techniques to stay motivated and keep the words flowing:
- Set writing goals and put them in writing.
Have realistic daily, weekly, and monthly goals marked on a calendar for quick reference. These can range from word counts to number of pages. There’s nothing like the adrenaline rush of meeting a goal. A disciplined writer is a happy, productive writer.
- Reward yourself for meeting goals.
Oh, how we abhor procrastination guilt! But if goals are met—even small ones—rewards can be enjoyed guilt-free. Take a walk, enjoy a sweet treat, meet a friend for lunch—anything to give our muse a break so we can return rejuvenated.
- Establish pre-writing rituals and build creative anticipation.
This is my favorite motivation technique. Before I sit down to write, I have my morning coffee or tea, a light breakfast, devotion/quiet time, and then I dress for work (even though I’m working at home). Throughout my routine, I can feel the creative energy building. When I sit down at my computer, I’m ready to be productive (most of the time).
- Keep an idea journal with notes, scribbles, visual aids, etc.
This journal or notebook needs to be a part of us, something that never leaves our side. Ideas will come at the most unusual times—while trying to fall asleep at night, in line at the grocery store, during the Sunday sermon, in traffic, watching a movie, etc. If we don’t write it down, it may be gone forever. When we’re short on ideas, our journal is a treasure trove of inspiration.
- Share goals and ideas with a writer friend.
We must have accountability in our work. Writing is about community. We need someone to ask about our progress and to simply check in regularly. Another writer knows and understands the unique struggles we face and can help us through the dry times. Also, creative brainstorming with other writers can be pure joy, inspiring myriad projects, ideas, and story plots.
Are we ready?
Fire the laptop. Prime the pen.
Keep writing!
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Leigh Ann Thomas is the author of three books, including Ribbons, Lace, and Moments of Grace—Inspiration for the Mother of the Bride (SonRise Devotionals). A regular contributor to AlmostAnAuthor.com, Just18Summers.com, and InTheQuiver.com, she has also published with Southern Writers Suite T, The Write Conversation, and Power for Living. She is a contributing author in 10 books and her award-winning fiction is included in three editions of Southern Writers Magazine’s Best Short Stories. You can find Leigh Ann on her front porch daydreaming story plots, or blogging at LeighAThomas.com.
Twitter: https://twitter.com/lthomaswrites
