Whether you are trying to do writing, ghostwriting, or some other creative endeavour, it can sometimes feel like you are at the mercy of an unforgiving and fickle muse that you can’t control. If you view your creativity and writing as reliant upon some unreliable entity, then you are going to encounter a lot of frustration.
Luckily, you are not completely at the mercy of the uncontrollable muse. There are things you can do to establish a creative process, and if you continue to put in the work and be consistent, then the muse will start showing up for you more often.
The Writing Process
Our brains love routine and consistency. You can train your brain to be creative and switch to a creative mode by establishing a writing process. Creating a routine around your writing or ghostwriting will help you increase your focus and concentration when it is time to write. Pick a time and pace that is set aside for writing. Turn off notifications and your phone, so nothing interrupts your process. You may even want to add in a certain scented candle or a favourite beverage to your routine.
Learn from Other Writers
The creative process is different for everyone, so it makes sense that you can learn a lot from studying the creative process and relationship to the muse that other writers have developed. Read a lot about how your favourite authors approach writing and if something feels right, try it out for yourself. It may take some trial and error, but don’t give up!
You can also form or join a book group to talk about your writing with other writers and help them with their writing as well. You can find authors to connect with or observe by visiting writing websites like creativewriting.net or listening to TED talks focusing on writing.
Writing Exercises
It is really easy to feel stuck when you are writing. Writing exercises are a great way to break out of a rut and help generate new ideas and get the words flowing. Keeping a page or book of writing exercises handy where you write will make it easy to make the most of your writing time.
Turn to Nature
Sometimes taking a break and reconnecting to nature is a good way to get the creative juices flowing. Turning your brain off for a minute and practising a little mindfulness can get yourself out of your way. Reducing your stress by reconnecting to nature will help you come back to your writing, feeling more energized and inspired.
Immerse Yourself in Art
If you feel stuck in your own creative projects, then it may do you some good to explore the creative works of others. Taking a break from writing to listen to music or pursue another artistic endeavour can help break up your day. Infusing your life with all kinds of art can help you live a more creative life overall and come back to your writing project with new focus and concentration.
Keep Writing
Sometimes we get so focused on writing well that we are unable to write at all. Sometimes the best thing you can do for your writing practice is to just simply write. Stop thinking so much, and just start writing. You can always go back later and change what you don’t like, but if you don’t write something all you will have is a blank page.
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