No matter how prolific, every writer hits moments where they may not feel as inspired or creative as they usually might. A variety of things can affect how creative a writer feels at any given moment: life stressors, lack of time, exhaustion. But maybe worst of all are those times when nothing is particularly out of sorts and inspiration is still nowhere to be found. Fortunately, there are many ways to fill the creative well.
When the muse seems to be hiding, it may be a sign you need to refocus. Here are some ideas to try:
1. Get Into Nature
There is nothing like getting some fresh air to clear your thoughts. More than that, though, nature can often be a source of inspiration. A dark corner in the forest or a field of flowers can easily become a setting for a novel scene. The more you allow yourself to wander without the distractions that are common-place at home (aka, free of technology), the more likely you are to find yourself imagining and thinking—a sure way to get the spark you need to write.
2. “White Noise” Activities
Whenever I need to work out a problem in a plot, I opt for one of my favorite “white noise” activities. In other words, something relaxing that I enjoy and doesn’t involve a lot of thought. My two favorites are a hot shower or a long drive. A long drive combined with music, in particular, has a way of helping me figure out what to do with my plot problems. White noise activities are fantastic for filling your creative well because they allow your mind to be engaged but not in a way that is distracting. As a result, your subconscious has the opportunity to unknot itself.
3. Other Creative Artistic Pursuits
The arts have a way of often going hand-in-hand. Whether it’s playing music or painting, other right-brained activities can help a stuck writer feel creative once again. Even if it’s not something you’re particularly gifted with, sometimes the sheer act of creating can start the mind down the write path (pun intended, of course).
Regardless of what you choose to do to fill the creative well, the most important thing to do is to do something. Writer’s block, though difficult, is something that can be overcome, but sometimes it must be done by trying.
