Motivation - 9 ways to get those words flowing!
#1 Write somewhere new
Do you usually write sitting at your desk? How about going and sitting outside to write? Maybe the park or beach? Or how about writing in a cafe? The benefit of the cafe is you can enjoy good coffee at the same time! If you can't get too far away from your usual writing destination, may just change the room you are in.
#2 Write differently
If you're like me, you write on a laptop. To get those words flowing, try writing differently. Pick up a pen and paper - hopefully your handwriting is legible. Or how about voice recording. I use Dragon Naturally Speaking and it's brilliant to transcribe my voice recordings to text later too.
My preferred way of making voice notes or dictating my novel while I'm on the go is via an iPhone app called Voice Record Pro.
#3 Write something different
Perhaps it's time to take a break from your manuscript. How about writing a blog post, a poem or a journal entry?
#4 Write to a writerโs prompt or challenge
Have you tried responding to a writing prompt? There are some websites that post these daily and I also see them regularly on Pinterest. Check out this Pinterest board - Writing Prompts & Challenges - where I've collected a few.
#5 Participate in an event such as Nanowrimo
National Novel Writing Month can appeal to the competitive people amongst us. During Nano you are challenging yourself to write a certain number of words per month. For the main event each November the word count target is 50,000 words. When you sign up for the event, you register your work in progress and track your daily progress. You can also link up with other participants for additional support. The Nano folk also post lots of motivational material to keep you going.
Check out their website for more information on Nanowrimo.
#6 Join a writer's group or partner with someone else
Writers who benefit from being part of a supportive community might like to join a writer's group. This could be an online group or one that meets locally so you can meet in person. Writer's groups can help provide information that may assist you overcome your slump. They also encourage and inspire each member. If you're not into the big group thing, then maybe partner with one other author. You can be a mini-support team for each other.
#7 Switch to a different story
Maybe you just need a break from your current story so you can come back to it with fresh eyes. The words could start flowing again if you simply change your focus to a different story. Unless you have a critical deadline, work on the story that is closest to your heart and clamouring to get out because that's the one that's most likely to flow.
#8 Use a sprinting app
Have you heard of sprinting? A writing sprint is a timed burst of writing where you don't allow any interruptions and just focus on getting the words down. The idea is not to self-edit as you go, rather just go with the flow. You can time yourself manually, however, I like the app on my iPhone. After each sprint, the app 'rewards' me with a little cheer and keeps track of my writing speed and words written.
I use 5,000 WPH.
Edited Feb 2018: Unfortunately, the 5KWPMH app is no longer available. I'd love to find something with similar functionality so if you have any recommendations, please comment below.
#9 Take A Break
If all else fails, maybe it's simply time to take a break. The key is not to give up too easily because that's just procrastination. However, if you are staring at a blank page, have tried other ways to kick start your writing and nothing's working, don't beat yourself up. You need to look after yourself, both physically and mentally. Go for a walk, read a book, spend some time working on your hobby. Just don't leave it too long before you try again.
What do you do when the words dry up? What motivation tips do you have?
Best of luck with those words and happy writing,
Nicki xx
