In a new post on Writers Write, Anthony Ehlers offers suggestions for getting a fresh start on your writing in the new year. “If you’re struggling to get started on your writing, here are five innovative methods to help kick-start your next creative project,” he writes.
- Start From Zero. Do you feel guilty about not finishing the novel you worked on last year? Are you stuck in that project without ideas for moving forward? Ehlers says it’s ok to start fresh on something new. “When you push a hard reset, you are forced to let go of the past, which includes all the unfinished manuscripts and false starts, the hours you believe were ‘wasted’, and, most importantly, the guilt,” he writes.
- Challenge One Myth About Yourself. Many of us have the Imposter Syndrome Devil looking over our shoulders when we write. Do you have a favorite catch-phrase that inhibits your creativity? You might think you’re not talented enough or that no one would be interested in the story you’re writing. Challenge that voice and write without judgment.
- Turn Excuses Into Experiments. We all have excuses for why we don’t write as often as we plan. We’re tired, lack focus, or have family responsibilities. Instead of giving in to those excuses, find a way to work around them. Instead of giving up when you feel too tired to write, engage in an activity that will make you feel refreshed, then sit down anyway.
- List The Little Victories. Celebrate your wins, whether it’s attending your writing group every month, studying novels, journaling, or hitting your word count. Write them down! Seeing your wins in print is motivating.
- Make A Contract. Make promises with yourself and keep them. You can also promise not to do something, like spend hours on social media or make plans with friends on your writing nights.
