Writing for Joy

I believe writing should be, first and foremost, something we do for our own joy.

Writing is just another way of thinking. It doesn't need to have an ROI.

We forget this. Writing can become so weighted: "I need to produce content, to write the book so I can get the speaking gigs, get into this publication so I can attract the right type of client..." and on and on the list goes. When we approach writing with this heavy energy, guess what happens? We can't write.

After 11 years of writing professionally, I know that writing is not only the thing that pays my bills: it's what makes me happy. Specifically, writing fiction.

But sometimes the heaviness around writing--and life in general--gets in the way of words. Making the leap from wanting to write to actually writing can seem like jumping across the Grand Canyon.

If you feel creatively stuck, know that a.) you're normal, and b.) there are ways to get your words flowing again. Here are 13 suggestions for how:

For Fiction Writers

• Try writing breakout scenes where the characters you're imagining bump into other characters. Maybe characters from your previous books! Discover what they're all about
• Fanfic your own writing
• Write some character sketches. What does the character love? What do they hate? What are they afraid of? What do their socks look like? Etc.
• Try websites that offer daily writing prompts (Google will offer you plenty)
• Try character development via Tarot, using this prompt

For Anyone

• Walk around your neighborhood listening to super sad movie soundtracks: get yourself to a F E E L I N G place
• Use a voice memos app, take a walk, and talk out whatever ideas come (try the Otter app)
• Sit under a tree in silence and see what ideas come to you
• Take improv classes
• Sign up for a local chapter of Shut Up and Write
• Embrace the creativity hiatus--let the well be dry for a while. Consider trying an artistic outlet you don't normally indulge in and give yourself permission to suck at it
• Take yourself on an Artist Date. Go see a movie, check out your local art museum, take a flower arranging class--anything that floats your boat
• Read excellent writing from your favorite authors

Did any of these ideas stick out to you? Here's your permission slip: give it a try.

The other morning I wrote a poem even though I am "not" a "poet." It was so satisfying! I felt better!

That's the point. Exercising your creativity is a gift you give yourself. Any benefit the rest of the world gets is overflow after you've filled your own cup.

That’s the way it should be.