Happy Monday, Nerds!
Is anyone else hitting the February slump? We all start the new year with big goals and big aspirations, but then midway through February, that motivation starts to dwindle. Don't worry. It's not just you. Tons of writers struggle with this. This normal!
So how do we break through this cycle of motivation and slump? Let's look at a few practical tactics.
Shake Up Your Writing Routine
Are you writing in the same space every day? Shake things up a bit and go somewhere else. Yes, establishing a dedicated writing space is important in creating routine and habit, but it's also important to add a little variety when the routine becomes boring.
Move to a different room, go to your local library (give them your support!), check out the new cafe' or bar. Just get out of your regular spot.
You might consider experimenting with different writing times, too. Are you a morning writer? Try the late night routine and see what happens. You may hate it, but you may also find a new muse!
Try a new writing method. If you normally write at the computer, try breaking out the old paper and pen. Writing longhand encourages you to slow down and you're less likely to revise as you write.
Creativity flows best when you're inspired. New surroundings spark inspiration.
Find Inspiration in New Stories
We all fall into the habit of sticking within our preferred genre when it comes to reading. Read outside of your comfort zone or jump genres. This refreshes your perspective.
Make sure you regularly engage with the art of storytelling. You learn best by consuming. Read, watch a movie, or go to your local art studio. Take yourself out on an Artist's Date! (This is also something Julia Cameron prompts us to try in Write for Life).
Another great way of engaging in the art of storytelling is to participate in role-playing games (see Field Testing) or improv exercises.
Lower the Pressure
Remember, perfection isn't the goal. Every written word is progress. Every moment of research is progress. Don't beat yourself up because draft 0 is awful. It's supposed to be! That's why it's your zero draft.
Set tiny achievable goals for yourself. For instance, maybe your goal is just 100 words a day instead of telling yourself "I have to finish the whole chapter today."
I'm also a big believer in free writing. Journal or braindump (that's me). The goal is to write without an agenda. As
mentioned during her book launch (and I'll definitely be making stickers), write like no one is reading.Connect with Other Writers
Writing can honestly feel a little isolating and lonely. It's not necessarily a group activity. You have to sit alone with your thoughts (ew). Reach out to writing groups or join virtual live writing sessions. Get an accountability partner.
Join a community like The Fiction Lab (wink wink nudge nudge). Communities like these allow you to meet with others, share knowledge, and grow your own writing skills.
When motivation is low, sometimes it's helpful to talk through things. And the writing industry is pretty low stakes - you're always going to find another writer who's more than willing to help.
Creative slumps happen. And they happen to everyone. But the thing you've got to remember is that they don't have to derail your long-term goals and success. I encourage you to try at least one of these, and let me know how it goes!
The passion's still there. Sometimes it just needs a little spark!
Thanks to everyone who joined
’s book launch on Sunday! We had a great time with some great giveaways!