When the going gets tough, the tough get writing!
Help! You sit down to finally spend time on your long-awaited manuscript, only to do just that, sit. Urg! Most writers know the feeling. The irony is that the story often comes to you when you are not sitting, but on the go or trying to fall asleep (that's when those pesky characters usually come to me). Solution? I wish I had a golden answer that could make all your writing dreams come true, but I don't; however, I do have three suggestions...
1. Designate a time and place
We are creatures of habit; our brains love routine. Writing is no different. Sitting down at the same spot and time can help remind our brains that it's go time. Now, don't get me wrong, I love using my laptop and taking it on the go, like the next person, but for me, it's distracting. I'd rather watch the scenery going on than focus on my writing. I do, however, use outside and other places for inspiration, and highly recommend getting ideas that way, but the actual sit-down-and-write-out portion I like to do in the same spot. I also use a different place/space when I do major edits. It makes me feel like I can write more clearly. Again, personal preference here.
Brandi Parsons from Self-Publishing School gives seven examples of how a designated writing location helps in the writing process.
- Boosts concentration
- Sets a routine
- Fosters discipline
- Encourages origination
- Inspired creativity
- Promotes mindfulness
- Improves productivity
How Well-Designed Writing Places Stimulate Creativity
2. Free Write
The title pretty much sums it up. After you write an outline (which I highly recommend) or even before, let the words flow without stopping to check your spelling, grammar, or even flow. I'm guilty of this. I have to stop myself from second-guessing what I wrote, changing things around, editing before it's ready, then editing some more. It may sound counterproductive, but when you're in a slump, it can slow you down. Unless you are working on a specific chapter to read at a writing group or show someone, let the creative juices flow and don't critique yourself just yet.
Issac from The Exquisite Writer stated that, "self-criticism and creativity can’t operate at full speed simultaneously." How true that is. He also said, "Freewriting works because it offers the spark room to ignite before the extinguisher gets its way." The inner critic is quick to squelch your flame; don't let it. Give yourself time to write without worrying about the editing process and you will be surprised at how quickly the ideas come.
The Art of Freewriting: Let Ideas Flow Without Fear
3. Create a character web.
When I'm stuck on a character, I like to make one of those web maps I made in Language Arts as a kid. You know, the one where the character's name is in the middle and I draw a line connecting to a little bubble, or, my favorite, a cloud, with that character's attributes, even looks, and how they would interact with different people. It might seem silly but for me this activity reins in my creativity enough that I can go back to free writing.
A bonus recommendation is taking the time to 'sharpen your saw,' by learning tools to improve your writing and the different steps it takes to complete a novel.
Here is a guide I recommend written by Erin Mindes, Stephanie Moore, Paige Sommer and Writing Friends Society. Their combined knowledge is invaluable and can save you a lot of waisted time.
Write Your Best Novel: A Workbook to Guild You from Concept to Publication
I hope some of these suggestions were helpful. Every writer is different, but you will find your groove. The trick is to keep writing. You got this!
For more information about our authors and their processes, click on the links below to access more blogs, writing tips and author information.
