In A Creative Rut – Here’s How To Get Out Of It – NOW!

Sometimes when you sit down to write the words just won’t come out. No matter how long and hard you stare at the page, no matter how many cups of coffee you drink, no matter how many times you rearrange your stationary, nothing seems inspire you to pick up the pen, or start typing away on the keyboard.

Now many people mistake this feeling for writers block. They shrug and sigh and then the panic sets in. What if you will never be able to write again? What if you have just ‘lost it’ and your writing career is over?

If your writing feels stale, and you simply don’t feel motivated to do it anymore, it is probably not writer’s block, you are, in fact, stuck in a creative rut.

Here’s how to get out of it.

Step up

If you are in a creative rut then the worst thing you can do is give up. This isn’t going to get you anywhere. While it may be tempting to feel sorry for yourself and just hunker down in front of the TV with a large bag of crisps hoping that somehow this will help, you have to get through it by forcing yourself to write. Even if it is frustrating and painful, at least ‘turn up for work’ each day. Sit down at your desk with a positive attitude, and stick to your writing schedule. You may have to wait for that creative genius to come out, but by just turning up you are making positive steps forward.

Clear your mind

Often we can get stuck in a creative rut when we simply have too much other stuff going on. Our lives are all pretty hectic, and with loads of other commitments it can be easy for writing to slip down the ladder of priorities. However, there is plenty you can do to stop yourself being distracted. Set aside time to write, and make this time sacred. During this time turn off your phone, shut off your email and explain to family and friends that no one can disturb you. If your home is too chaotic to write in, take yourself off. Find a secret spot that only you know about and make this your creative ‘safe space.’

Get some rest

Sometimes we get into a creative rut when we are stressed out and overtired. Next time you feel as though the words just won’t come, take a moment to listen to your body, and think about what else is going on in your life. If you need to take a break then do. Even if it’s only for an afternoon. Set aside some time to do an activity that truly relaxes you. It might be something as simple as going for a stroll in the countryside helps you to destress and unblocks your tension, allowing creativity to flow once more.

Make a plan

Sometimes if you are starting out or halfway through a big wiring project, you can get a little ‘lost.’ Making a plan can help you to understand the journey, the creative process required to get you to the finish line. Once you have a clear idea of what you have to do, the process should feel a lot less overwhelming and you’ll be able to sit down and make progress.

Read

Reading a book can sometimes be all we need to inspire us to write. It’s great research for creative writers, or, if you are writing a non-fiction piece why not read a writing help book to give you ideas for exercises to get you started again? Writers should be reading constantly, so, if you feel you can’t face sitting down to write at the moment, use the time to read and you’ll still be being productive.

By using these tips you can help yourself get out of your creative rut and become inspired again. Just stick to it and tell yourself you will get through it and before you know it you’ll be back in the saddle and writing away once more!

Bethany Cadman -author of 'Doctor Vanilla's Sunflowers'

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