It’s called the War of Art for a reason!

If you know, you know…

Steven Pressfield’s named his classic writing text honestly. Many of us have an image of what a creative life will look like and for some of us it bears little resemblance to real life. (Sometimes we get closer than others – I’m back from a recent writing retreat. This is pretty close to how I imagined an ideal writing life would look!)

Retreats are just that – they are an escape from trying to write through the grind and grime of daily life. Most of the time we are trying to write while juggling household tasks, non-writing work, family life etc. It’s no wonder it feels like the Muse isn’t just missing but has packed a case and fled the scene.

We all know that showing up repeatedly tends to help. Writing is 99% perspiration and 1% inspiration. Sometimes life derails us for a long enough period that we lose our way – and maybe even lose confidence. At these moments, it’s helpful to have a toolbox to rely on, just to get us back at the desk.

Try these tips to jump start your creativity once again:

1. Set a Timer (Try Pomodoro)

Write for just 25 minutes with no pressure to be perfect. Hell, write for 10 minutes! Knowing there’s a time limit often reduces “The Fear”.

2. Change Your Writing Tool

Switch from keyboard to pen and paper, or vice versa. Sometimes, the tactile change helps reset your brain. My personal favourite is very smooth paper and a clicky pencil. It helps me get into the free writing zone.

3. Speaking of free writing…

Free writing is exactly that – it is freedom. If you haven’t already embraced Julia Cameron’s morning pages, then give yourself this gift. I do more evening pages than morning ones but the concept works regardless. Allow yourself to write badly on purpose. The goal is momentum, not brilliance. First drafts are supposed to be messy. We call it the sh*tty first draft for a reason!

4. Start in the Middle

Skip the beginning. Start with a scene or moment you’re excited about, even if it’s out of order. There’s an argument for writing chronologically but sometimes we need to give ourselves a treat, especially when it’s hard.

5. Use Prompts

Try a random writing prompt or ask yourself: “What if…?” or “What happens next?” Prompts create structure to push past stuck points. Some people find images helpful and hoard magazine images, tarot cards or Pinterest mood boards. Whatever works, works!

6. Change Your Environment

Go write in a coffee shop, on a beach, or in a different room. Just shifting setting can change our perspective in every way.

7. Revisit Why You’re Writing

Remind yourself of your “why”—your deeply personal reason for committing to this story or book. Many of us started writing when we were children. Writing became the place where we could best make sense of ourselves and the world. There’s a reason you’re telling this story. Don’t be afraid to remind yourself.

Remember – honour your voice. You’re telling a story that no one else can or will. Give your little creative vision the chance to be born.

A creative coach can be part of that process. As one happy client wrote,

Debbie encompasses the gold dust of a great coach – she has the insight which enabled her to identify my growth areas while she encouraged me to be ambitious with my word count and held me accountable with my writing discipline.

(JKJ)

Books, like babies, come with birthing pains. Get in touch for more information if you think a creative coach can help you find your way. I offer bespoke packages for new writers and professionals alike.