As a writer, I go through phases. Some days, I think of poems almost involuntarily. Some others, I sit down and stare at a blank page for long minutes before coming up with a line or two that I may not even be proud of. During the years, I have tried coming up with a writing routine and finding things that make me feel inspired. These are some of my tips <3

1. Set A Specific Time

I know, I know. We want to believe that inspiration is something that comes to us without the need to look for it, but I have learned that if I set a time every day to write– whether it is in the morning or before going to bed, it is easier for my mind to dive into the writing mood. One piece of advice I read somewhere is just to write, even if it is a horrible piece of writing. Just keep writing because among the horrible first drafts, there will be a line, a word, or a paragraph that inspire something else.

Personally, I like to write in the mornings. After drinking my coffee, I go to my desk, sit down, and I write.

2. Look At Other Forms of Art

One of my Creative Writing teachers during my college years said that a good writer needs to read. Part of our job as writers is to read others’ work not only to find inspiration– the whole purpose of this blog post– but also to learn about their techniques, different styles and voices, etc. Thus, when I struggle to find inspiration, I just grab a book. It can be the same genre as what you are writing or something completely different. When looking for inspiration, I personally like to read poetry.

Now, what I mean by “other forms of art” includes movies, songs, paintings, etc. As an artist, I like to explore different art forms. I love looking up paintings or going to art museums or even reading art books. I find that some things I tell through my words can also be told through different mediums. Art is meant to stir up emotions within you. If you look at one of Monet’s painting or listen to your favorite singer, there will be emotions arising inside of you that you might have not even been aware of: use this as a starting point to write.

3. Create An Inspiring Environment

The most productive advice that has helped me is to have no distractions. Try to leave your phone in another room or maybe just mute it for an hour to write. Whether you use your computer or a journal, just grab that and sit: the only thing you need are your writing materials and yourself.

Another thing I personally enjoy when writing is lighting up a candle. Perhaps you have one other element that inspires you. It doesn’t have to be a candle, it can be nature (a flower, a window, the ocean) or an image from your childhood or a letter– it can be anything. For me, I find inspirations whenever I watch the wick being consumed by the fire and the wax melting by its touch. (If you have read my book, you probably found a couple fire-related metaphors). Find that element and add it to your writing environment.

We all have different preferences as to where we like to write. Some people prefer the quiet of their room or the peace found in nature or even the movement of a crowded coffee shop. Wherever you chose to write, make sure it is somewhere inspiring yet not distracting.