Last updated on 22/06/2023
Writing when you have no motivation can be a real struggle, but there are strategies you can employ to overcome this challenge. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Set small goals
Instead of aiming to write a certain number of words or complete a whole chapter, set a small goal, such as writing for 10 or 15 minutes. This can help you get started and build momentum.
Set specific goals for each writing session, such as writing a certain number of words or completing a section. But if that doesn’t work for you, instead try setting a small goal, such as writing for 10 or 15 minutes. This can help you get started and build momentum.
By focusing on smaller milestones, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment that can boost your motivation.
Seek inspiration
Look for sources of inspiration that resonate with you. Read books, articles, or blogs in your genre to get your creative juices flowing.
Explore different forms of art, listen to music, or take a walk in nature. Engaging with inspiring content can help spark ideas and reignite your motivation.
Use prompts or exercises
Try using prompts or writing exercises to get your creativity flowing. You can find many online resources for writing prompts and exercises that can help spark new ideas.
Experiment with different techniques
If your usual writing approach isn’t working, try new techniques. Explore different brainstorming methods, outline your ideas, or experiment with mind maps.
Switching up your approach can stimulate your creativity and make writing feel fresh and exciting. This and the following tip can go hand in hand.
Start with freewriting
If you’re struggling to get started, try freewriting. Set a timer for a specific duration (e.g., 10 minutes) and write without any judgment or expectations. Let your thoughts flow freely, allowing ideas to emerge naturally. This exercise can help you break through the initial resistance and tap into your creativity.
Create a routine
Establish a routine for writing. Establish a consistent writing routine. Set aside dedicated time for writing, preferably during your most productive hours.
Training your brain to expect writing during these specific times can make it easier to get started, even when motivation is low. This can help train your brain to associate that time or place with writing, making it easier to get started.
Change your environment
If you’re struggling to write in your usual environment, try changing your setting. Identify an environment that helps you focus and feel inspired. It could be a quiet corner in your home, a cozy coffee shop, or a serene outdoor setting.
Experiment with different locations until you find the one that puts you in the right frame of mind.
Find accountability
Share your writing goals with a friend or fellow writer who can hold you accountable. Set deadlines and check in regularly to update each other on progress. Having someone to answer to can provide the extra motivation and encouragement you need.
Seek support and feedback
Connect with other writers or join writing communities online or in person. Engaging with like-minded individuals can provide invaluable support, encouragement, and constructive feedback.
Sharing your challenges and successes with others who understand can give you the motivation boost you need.
Embrace imperfection
Remember that no piece of writing starts off perfect. Give yourself permission to write poorly in the initial stages. Focus on getting your ideas on paper without worrying about grammar, structure, or style. You can always revise and polish later.
Set realistic expectations
Acknowledge that not every writing session will be perfect, and that’s okay. Let go of the pressure to produce a flawless piece of work every time. Remind yourself that first drafts are meant to be imperfect and that you can always revise and improve later.
Celebrate progress
Recognize and celebrate every milestone, no matter how small. Reward yourself for completing tasks or reaching specific goals. Celebrating progress reinforces positive habits and encourages continued motivation.
Keep the end goal in mind
Visualize the end result and the satisfaction of completing your writing project. Remind yourself of the purpose behind your writing and the impact it can have on others. Keeping the bigger picture in mind can reignite your motivation and drive you forward.
These tips are more to do with your mental health than your writing ability.
Take breaks
Don’t force yourself to write if you’re feeling burnt out or overwhelmed. Take a break, do something else, and come back to writing when you’re feeling refreshed.
Understand the root cause
Take a moment to reflect on why you’re lacking motivation. Is it due to fatigue, self-doubt, external distractions, or feeling overwhelmed? Identifying the underlying cause can help you address it directly.
Practice self-care
Take care of your overall well-being, as it directly impacts your creativity and motivation. Prioritize proper sleep, exercise, and a balanced diet. Engage in activities that bring you joy and help you relax. When you take care of yourself, you’ll have more mental and physical energy for writing.
Writing is a transformative process that entails both highs and lows. At times, you may encounter moments of feeling unmotivated or stuck. Remember to be kind to yourself during these periods and explore strategies that resonate with you to overcome these challenges and maintain your writing momentum.
Embrace the understanding that writing is a journey filled with ebbs and flows of motivation. It is your commitment and perseverance that will ultimately lead you to success. Keep pushing forward, remain dedicated to honing your craft, and trust that the motivation will naturally rekindle in due time. Embrace the process, embrace yourself, and embrace the belief in your writing journey.
Great advice, thank you for sharing.
You’ve listed helpful tips here, including some which I haven’t heard before. A very well-written post!
This is super helpful! I needed these reminders, especially setting small goals and that it doesn’t need to be perfect the first time. Something I always struggle with.
This is very helpful advice. I like the idea of changing your environment. I find myself sometimes getting board with the idea of writing in my office. I’ll have to try a coffee shop or park to spice things up. Thanks for the tips!
Great post! Thanks for sharing!
Freewring is awesome!
I would also like to add not to start with intro. It is so much better starting writing what you want to tell instead of spending lots of time drafting an intro part.
Love this post and sounds so familar! Ha ha. I’m in this state right now for my next blog post … so I started freewriting in notepad so it’s just a small commitment while I start mulling it over.
Interesting advice I’ll try the 10 15 minutes solution.