,sresEvery writer has things that inspire them. I like to think I have several muses who stoke the flames of my imagination and help me come up with captivating stories.
Here are a few things that help me get inspired:
- Listening to epic music.
- Going for walks in nature.
- Getting on my yoga mat.
- Reading stories that make me think and swoon and feel.
- Encouraging other writers, or seeking encouragement when I need it.
- And, most importantly, letting my characters run wild. They really do much of the writing when I let them.
Sometimes, writing is really, really hard. There are times when I can write 15,000 words in a day, and times when just getting out a paragraph seems like trudging through mud.
Burnout is real, and a danger for writers who keep pushing themselves. Been there. Now, when I notice signs of burnout (tired, uninspired, mental health downward spiralling), I let myself take a break. I binge-watch a series I enjoy or pick up someone else’s book.
As a poet and songwriter, my muse often comes when I’m experiencing strong emotions. I rarely write poetry when I’m happy. Usually, it’s brought about by angst or longing or pain. Or a pensive moment demands I turn it into words.
Having a dog helps me remember to take breaks and get outside. If I’m struggling with a writing problem, generally going for a walk helps me come up with solutions.
Finding the balance between doing and resting is an ongoing process, but I find it helpful to just take a minute, every so often, to center in and breathe.
Here’s a mini-meditation to do just that:
Peaceful Moments Mini-Meditation
Lengthen your spine,
Letting the crown of your head float towards the sky.
Your feet connect to the ground,
Roots in the earth.
Invite your breath to dance
In deeper waves
That lull your mind to calm,
And your body to relax.
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