Five Steps to Revitalize Your Writing Creativity

 

By Cindy Sproles

 

It happens. Sometimes the words dry up. It’s not writer’s block. You have ideas. Sentences hit the page. But when they say nothing … when words don’t flow as they should … what then?

 

Writers are abundantly creative, and creativity draws from your physical and emotional energy. It seems contradictory to say that writers are revitalized by their creativity, but this is true. As much as we have that fantastic adrenaline rush when a story comes together, we are equally worn down and tired when the scene is completed. It’s safe to compare us to a hamster in a rolly-ball, never stopping.

 

Because creativity is energy-draining, it’s vital to replenish what gets sucked out daily. Writers rarely see the drain happening until it’s too late. We love what we do, and this love of the craft sometimes blinds us to what our bodies are saying. When you least expect it, you realize you’re worn, spent … without words.

 

Follow these five steps to help revitalize your writing attitude.

 

Rest 

The world throws an abundance of activity at us. It’s essential adequate rest is included in your daily schedule, be it an early bedtime, a quiet time mid-day, or specific alone time. Turn off electronics. Your body demands rest and without it, creativity wanes.

 

Rethink Schedules

Schedule your day. Good time management will help you stay energized and on track.

 

Read 

Study and reading allow you to unwind and keep your skills honed. Call this the “kill two birds with one stone” effect. Your body is still and resting, but your mind is absorbing in this restful state.

 

Reconsider Commitments 

Avoid over-committing. Saying no as a monthly contributor, especially when we see the benefits for our writing career, is hard. We want and need our names out there to help sell our work, but over-committing to these things will quickly suck away valuable time and energy. I loved the attitude of one writer when we asked if she would be willing to serve as our ministry radio host. “Yes, I’ll commit to this for one year.” She set a boundary for herself and us. Over commitment robs you of the creativity you need to produce your work.

 

Recognize the Need to Exercise 

Walk, jog, lift weights, and move around. It’s easy for writers to find the only exercise they get is walking to the bathroom. Make time in your writing day to move. Movement stirs your body to produce energy. Remember, creativity feeds from your energy.

 

When you find yourself at a pivotal time and words just won’t come—reevaluate. Rejuvenate your creativity by making valuable changes in your daily work habits. The more you care for your personal and emotional needs, the better your life flows in every aspect.

 

(Photo courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net, Suriya Kankliang, and anankkml.) 

 

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When you find yourself at a pivotal time and words just won’t come—reevaluate and rejuvenate your creativity by making valuable changes in your daily work habits. Via @Cindydevoted (Click to tweet.)

Cindy K. Sproles is proud of her Appalachian Mountain heritage and loves to share it with others. She is an author, speaker, and conference teacher, teaching across the country. Cindy is the co-founder of Christian Devotions Ministries, and she has served as a managing editor for two publishing houses. Cindy is the director of the Asheville Christian Writers Conference, held each February at the Cove, Asheville, NC. She is married and has four adult sons and two grands.