I was sick early in June. Nothing too serious and after a few days I was feeling better, but writing-wise not so much. My mind was foggy and it was hard to concentrate. In the following days, I had a few days when I had some success, but overall, for a while everything was simply off. It’s so easy to get out of the habit of writing every day and hard to get back into it.
So although, I’m still working on getting back to normal. I thought I’d post a list of ways to get back to writing.
- Nutrition and exercise–Yeah, coffee and tea are a definite part of the writer diet, but, especially after an illness, it’s important to eat better and move.
- Get out and do something–a change of scenery, even going out to a movie, could be what’s needed. Just being away from the keyboard might re-energize and inspire you.
- Don’t beat yourself up–There are going to be times when you don’t make your goal. Maybe days of frustrating block are adding up. We’re all human. Take a moment breathe and focus on what you’re doing now. Yesterday is gone. Today’s writing is what you need to focus on.
- Read–Maybe something outside your favorite genre or even a favorite book that has characters you love! Or how about picking up one of the craft books on the shelf and trying a few of the exercises there.
- Read the last chapter you wrote–Get back into the flow of the story. Step into the world and let it excite you once again.
- If the above step doesn’t work, (and I particularly don’t like doing this myself) cut that last chapter or scene and take your characters in a completely different direction. (Remember to save the cut chapter onto another document. You might be able to use it later.) It’s a drastic step, but it might be the scene that’s holding you back.
- Goals!–Everyone has them even if they’re not written down. Until you get back to your normal try writing down a specific number and see if you can absolutely destroy it.
- Change your writing space–I’m not suggesting moving the furniture, although that might be a way to get a fresh outlook. If you normally write in an office, try the recliner or the nearest coffee shop.
- Turn on the music–If music inspires your writing, start your favorite playlist and go.
- Journal–About what inspires you, story ideas, characters.
- Pen and Paper–Go back to pen and paper and write longhand. It might be the change you need.
- Most of all, keep trying and keep writing. Even if it’s a few sentences or paragraphs, you’ll be making some progress.
So do you have any tips or tricks you use to get your mind focused and your writing back on track?
Happy Reading and happy writing!
