I Don't Want to Write...

Before you develop a routine, writing can be tedious.

This post applies to new authors...

I've been asked this question many times... How do you stay motivated to write?

There isn't a step-by-step guide on motivation. Yes, I know there are books out there claiming to give steps on how to... But, every author is different. What works for me, may not work for you.

I've been writing since I was 9 years old. And over the years, I've written (or created an outline) for over 200 books. My brain operates on overdrive. There is no off button for me. I used to be overwhelmed with it, but I've learned to accept it as part of my writing process.

Writing is not an easy feat. It is a skill that needs to be:

• Developed

• Nurtured

• Practiced

• Studied

Ways that I stay motivated:

1. Reading books: When some people think of reading books, they immediately think BORING. Starting off with this mental block is dangerous if you want to become an author (who writes consistently). Books are not boring. You just have to find those worth reading. It's also important to note that you shouldn't just read books that "interest you".

   
   

   I get it, an IT book may not sound interesting to someone who is a fashionista, but reading the book can help you with a future character.

Reading should NOT be a chore, if you want to become a great author. It must be part of your repertoire.

If you don't like to read... Don't bother writing.

2. Watching TV/movies: While I understand the need for less screen time, watching TV or

movies can give you ideas.

I really enjoy mystery shows/movies. It helps me with my problem solving skills. While I'm

watching the screen, I pay attention to everything... Including the characters behind the

scenes. They have a story to tell, even though the author didn't make it a "major" point.

I would also develop my own plot from the original storyline based on where I thought

the story could have gone. *Hint! Hint! Those endings that make you feel like you

wasted time watching the movie...

The movie is playing = My mind is writing an outline for a story.

It doesn't mean that you have to watch "more TV". Just be aware of all the stories being

presented (even if it's in the background).

3. Conversation: Ask questions about the most random things. Or strike up a conversation

based on the show/movie you just watched with someone. They don't have to know

that you're trying to "get ideas". You may not even know that it's happening. But, the

creative juices will flow.

Do you think people should speak their mind in every situation?

That was a question for you, dear reader, to answer. See what I did there? You're already

answering the question in your head/aloud. I didn't tell you to answer the question. You

just did it. And that's what happens during a conversation. This would help you when

writing dialogue for a story.

4. Traveling: Whether near or far, traveling is essential for a writer. Imagine doing all of life

in your neighborhood or city. The likelihood of being inspired will be slim. I'm not

saying your neighborhood isn't full of excitement... But, as an author you shouldn't limit

yourself to your daily activities. Think about a book series. Most of the time, the story

develops when something MAJOR happens (moving, death, marriage, divorce, or a

new character enters the scene). A book series wouldn't have longevity if all the stories

revolve around the original main character.

THERE MUST BE A CHANGE!

This is the impact of traveling. And while staycations may be beneficial for the short-

term... You should aim to travel outside of your comfort zone (neighborhood, city,

island/country, continent).

Excuses only work for so long... You know what that means for you.

*Remember: If you REALLY want to do something, you'll get it done! PLAN THAT TRIP!

P.S. Location matters... If you only write at home, this could be why you're feeling

uninspired. Write at the park... mall... on a plane... on a train... There's no specific place

to write. But, do venture outside of your usual writing spot.

5. Writing daily: This may sound weird... Especially if you don't feel motivated to write.

But, how will you learn, if you don't do it?

If you want to learn to ride a bike, you won't just stare at it. You actually HAVE TO get

on the bike and PRACTICE.

And that's essentially how you develop your writing skills.

WRITE

EVERY

SINGLE

DAY!

Does it matter what you write? NOPE!

The goal is to practice.

Write about:

• Your plans for the day

• How you feel

• Favorite scripture verse

• A life event

• The show/movie you just watched

• Your dream destination

• One word... Two words... A sentence... Paragraph... It doesn't matter, just write... AND WRITE EVERY DAY!

Eventually, you'll reach to the place where writing is what you do without planning...

~Theastarr Valerie