Writing is a personal journey. There’s no approach that’s going to work exactly the same for any two people. However, for some common problems, there are common solutions and there might not be a problem more common for writers than motivation issues. Whether it’s a case of writer’s block, a feeling of frustration or boredom with your current piece, or otherwise, here are some tried and true tips to help you get back on top of things.
Have a Clear Reason for Writing
First of all, you need to have a good idea of why, exactly, you’re writing. It might seem obvious at first glance, but motivation can differ, from a love of storytelling, a keen interest in ideas you want to communicate, or even a practical need to write something that sells. There’s no motivation that is inherently wrong or right, you simply need to find your own reason, to clarify it in your purpose, and to make sure that your writing reflects why you’re doing it.
Get Involved with Writing Programs
Writing can be a solitary activity, but it doesn’t have to be. Getting involved with writing programs like National Novel Writing Month (or NaNoWriMo) can be incredibly motivating. These programs create a sense of community and shared purpose, which can help you stay on track. NaNoWriMo, for instance, encourages writers to complete a 50,000-word novel in the month of November. The daily word count goals and communal support can transform writing from a lonely task into a vibrant, collective experience.
Set Realistic and Achievable Goals
If your goal is something as lofty or far-off as ‘write a series of books’ or ‘get picked up and published’, then your far-off ambitions can be more overwhelming and discouraging, rather than genuinely motivating. It’s a good idea to break bigger goals into smaller, more manageable tasks, like with this goal setting worksheet bundle. For example, if you’re working on a novel, set a goal to write a certain number of words each day or complete a chapter by the end of the week. Celebrate these small victories, as they contribute to your overall progress and keep you motivated to continue.
Forgive Yourself for Some Stumbles
No writing journey is without its obstacles. There will be days when the words don’t flow, when life gets in the way, or when self-doubt creeps in. It’s important to forgive yourself for these stumbles and not let them derail your progress. Writing is a process, and it’s normal to encounter setbacks along the way. Instead of dwelling on what went wrong, focus on what you can do moving forward. Being kind to yourself during tough times will help you maintain a positive mindset and prevent you from giving up when things get challenging. Remember, perseverance is key to completing any writing project.
Get a Second Reader
Don’t underestimate the power of being held accountable. When you have a second reader, someone who can provide basic feedback and help you stay engaged with your story, you’re more likely to stay on track. Knowing that someone is expecting you to keep producing work can help you keep consistent so that you don’t have to let them down, as well as yourself. Whether it’s a friend, a writing group member, or a professional editor, having someone to share your progress with can make the writing process feel less isolating and more collaborative.
Find the Perfect Daily Writing Time
Routine is crucial for maintaining motivation, and finding the perfect daily writing time can make a big difference. Some writers are most productive in the early morning, while others prefer to write late at night. The key is to identify when you’re most focused and creative, and then consistently set aside that time for writing. Establishing a routine creates a habit, making it easier to write even on days when you don’t feel particularly motivated. However, if sticking to a strict routine is difficult, simply setting aside any dedicated time for writing, even if it’s not at the same time every day, can still be effective.
Stay Inspired
Inspiration is like a cheat code for motivation. When you’re feeling the creative fire, then it can feel like your hands can’t stop typing. You might not be able to maintain a level of peak inspiration during the entire writing process, but you should remember to top yourself up every now and then. This can mean taking some time away from your writing desk to get out into nature, visiting a museum, listening to music, or going to see a movie. Writers read, and you should always have a book or two on the go, but you should be willing and eager to explore other sources of motivation, too.
Go Back to Brainstorming When the Words Don’t Come Out
Writer’s block is a common challenge that can sap your motivation. When the words don’t come out, returning to the brainstorming phase can help. Brainstorming allows you to explore ideas without the pressure of producing polished writing. You can jot down thoughts, sketch out scenes, or create mind maps to explore different angles of your story. This process can help you rediscover your enthusiasm for the project and generate new ideas that reignite your motivation. Remember, the brainstorming phase is about exploration, not perfection.
Don’t Worry About Being Perfect
Perfectionism is a common trap for writers and one that can severely hinder motivation. The fear of producing something less than perfect can lead to procrastination and self-doubt. It’s important to remind yourself that the first draft doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to be written. You can always revise and improve your work later. The key is to get the words down on the page, even if they’re not exactly how you envisioned them. Embrace the idea that writing is a process and that each draft is an opportunity to refine and enhance your work. By letting go of the need for perfection, you free yourself to write more freely and maintain your motivation.
Writing is a journey that requires sustained motivation, but with the right strategies, it’s a journey you can navigate successfully. With perseverance and passion, you can achieve your writing goals and enjoy the fulfillment that comes with creating something truly your own.
Disclosure: collaborative post
