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Revert back to your writing style at age 14 for just a few pages. Write it cheesy, predictable, and full of the usual tropes. I don't know why this helps get the ideas flowing again for whatever big story you are trying to write, but it is probably the best writing exercise in my arsenal. It gets the creativity flowing again.
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This might be obvious, but there are tons of writing prompts out there, and if you commit to doing them regularly, even if they're short, you'll start getting your flow back. (If anyone knows a good source, add it below!) It's nice to have the choice of topic made for you, so you don't end up feeling attached to much about it, although you might surprise yourself with what you come up with. I started a weekly virtual group a while back to do exercises as a communal accountability thing, and that really got me excited about writing again. Morning pages were also something mentioned here a while ago.
Basically anything that gets you into the technical habit of writing, so when you want to write about something specific, you'll be practiced and ready! I have found that inspiration has an easier time breaking through to the page when I'm not as rusty. Also, unless you want to submit a piece to a publication that fits a certain guideline, there are no rules. The fewer boxes you try to fit yourself into, the easier it flows!
Mar 18, 2024
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This!!! Lately I've been in a slump, I've found that setting a 30 minute timer where I put phone on do not disturb, only have my document up on the screen, and write — not editing it as I go just write for 30 minutes straight — has helped. By the end of those 30 minutes I'm usually in a flow and try again for another 30 and so on.
I also like collecting quotes or photos (I use Pinterest) that connect to my story. It's a way of grounding me back into the world and a source of inspiration.
I used to commute 1 hour back and forth to work everyday and that time in the car by myself is when a lot of the building for my novel took place. So now whenever I'm in the car, it's reflexive almost for me to work out plot lines, dialogue, etc.
Dec 28, 2024
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When I'm stuck or seem to lack motivation, I often force myself to start putting words on paper.
I just grab a notebook — not a digital device, gotta eliminate escapes and distractions — and start writing. Even if it it begins with "I don't know what the hell to write," at least I'm writing.
Eventually it goes somewhere.
Oct 16, 2024
Top Recs from @starlet
2d ago
It’s incredible how many people genuinely think they are boring. There have been so many times I’ve spoken with people and they confess that they think that they haven’t done much with their life, or that they don’t have much interesting to talk about, but it’s almost never the case.
From what I can tell, it’s often caused by a lack of knowing thyself. Or maybe a low self esteem? I’ve been through it too, and it is so so not true for anyone.
You’ve done so much living. Why do you feel like your story is not worth telling? I know you’ve gone through some crazy shit once or twice. if you really haven’t, what’s stopping you from getting out there and creating stories to talk about? Start small! go to a coffee shop once a week. See if they have any clubs to join, and try that out! you’ll be making memories in NO TIME.
If you have trouble finding meaningful/fun conversation, just remember that the effort must flow both ways. You are merely just working with what the other person is providing you, and if they aren’t giving you anything to work with, it’s not your fault. You aren’t boring, you are just around people who dont vibe with you. And that’s okay! Not every person is going to be your specific kind of person. Plus, if you aren’t having fun talking to them, why does it matter if they like you? the much cooler people who value your input are just around the corner. I promise.
One day you’ll be able to shine your beautiful personality on someone who is equally as bright you are, you magnificent comet, you.
Feb 13, 2025
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no frosting, no filling. nothing beats it.
Apr 10, 2025