5 Tips for Finding Inspiration to Write
If you want to become a writer or perhaps you already love to write, but you desire to become a more regimented writer, chances are you may have trouble coming up with fresh ideas from time to time.
Below I’ve added 5 Tips for Finding Inspiration to Write that are sure to kickstart your imagination and get the creative juices flowing.
- Read, read, read! The best writers are often avid readers. Not only will reading prompt inspiration and story ideas, but being well read will naturally improve your writing style. Read the type of work you’d like to write; read the books whose author’s voice you admire. If you’re a fiction lover who favors Stephen King, read as many of his books as possible. In doing so, you’ll naturally pick up elements of his style, and this is something he even wrote about in his memoir, On Writing, a book I highly recommend for any aspiring author.
- Keep a journal – Developing a daily journaling habit will not only get you into the habit of writing, but journaling has been proven to unlock creativity. Plus, there’s just something liberating about writing in the safety of a private journal where we know our writing won’t be judged. It allows us to write more freely and stay out of the ego, which tends to show up when we are writing for an audience. This is why developing a daily journaling habit is a great way to become a more regimented writer while also building confidence.
- Get out and people watch – Don’t know what to write about? Get outside and people watch! Sitting on a bench in a public park and watching people pass by is sure to spark some story ideas. But don’t just watch, imagine what could be going on in each person’s life as they pass. Use your imagination and open an ear to the conversations around you. Becoming an attentive observer is a great way to spark story ideas. Just be mindful not to invade the privacy of others in your pursuit to find inspiration!
- Keep a notepad with you at all times – Inspiration is everywhere, so keep a notepad with you for those moments when ideas strike without warning. If you have a notepad app on your phone, that’s a handy place to keep a running list of your thoughts since your phone is likely always with you. Just don’t convince yourself that you’ll remember! If you’re like me, you will receive many fresh ideas each day, so writing them down in one convenient place is a great way to find inspiration on days when you just can’t think of anything to write about. It’s like having a running list of writing prompts at your fingertips!
- Write every day – Think of writing as a muscle that strengthens with exercise, and exercise that muscle every day! The more you write, the more you will enjoy it, and over time you’ll find it’s easier to discover inspiration. When writing becomes a natural part of your day instead of a chore, it will eventually become second nature to you. Don’t think you have time to write each day? Start by setting aside just 20 minutes per day or commit to one page per day. As your writing regimen becomes more regulated, you may find you can set aside even more time for what you love.
I hope these five tips spark some inspiration in you, but ultimately, the best way to find inspiration is to sit down and write! In the words of Pablo Picasso, “Inspiration exists, but it has to find you working.”
Shanda Trofe is an independent publisher and author coach specializing in book-writing and marketing strategies for authors, coaches, speakers and entrepreneurs. Her passion lies in helping those who are called to share a message with the world to find their voice and connect to their authentic, heartfelt story. She believes that a life rich with experience makes for a great message, and she enjoys working with authors throughout the entire process, from idea to publication. Additionally, she is the bestselling author of several books including Write from the Heart and Authorpreneur. www.shandatrofe.com
