The relentless cursor. The blank canvas. The empty project folder. The unresolvable stanza. The condescending “Create” button. Creatives know the feeling well as we’ve all been there. The act of creation is challenging, complex, and nonlinear. Sometimes, I think it’d be so nice to follow a series of simple steps and, bada bing, art! But all too often, creating quality work requires a great deal of us:
- Practice
- Energy
- Time
- Arguing with one’s muse
- Collaboration
- Research
- Study
- Grappling with the creative process itself
- *Failure*
And quite often in our hurried, data-driven culture, the creative process is forced into a strict timeline with deadlines. This is especially true for workforce creatives; however, hobbyists, too, often have perceived timelines, even if there’s more flexibility. Is it any wonder that creatives regularly feel exhausted, creatively blocked, burned out, stressed, frustrated, and overwhelmed?
So, what is the best method for moving forward when the creative process comes to a screeching halt? Creative writing prompts are an excellent way out of creative tight spot. Also, a little encouragement can go a long way.
More often than I’d like to admit, I need words of affirmation—encouragement to create imperfectly. I need almost constant reminders that creating is less about being brilliant and far more about beginning and seeing the process through to the end. If you’re like me and in need of some reassurance, inspiration, and some entry points to creativity, you’ve come to the right place!
“The scariest moment is always just before you start. After that, things can only get better.”—Stephen King, On Writing
Writing Prompts
Writing prompts are excellent springboards for generating ideas for ANY creative process, not just writing. Below, you’ll find a smorgasbord of prompts. Try one, two, or a handful that resonate with you.
Freewriting
The goal of freewriting is to write freely without premeditation or editing. As thoughts occur, write them down and see where the writing leads you. You might consider setting a timer for 10-15 minutes and writing until the alarm sounds. Try to write with as few pauses as possible. I’m always surprised by the number of “writing nuggets” with some potential that come from a session of freewriting!
Blank Slate Freewrite
Begin writing on whatever pops into your mind first. The topic could be trivial and random or significant. Write your way through that topic and see if any additional topics crop up. Then write through those. This freewrite is similar to a free association exercise.
Freewrite on a Single Word
Select a single word and write all you can about that one word. You may be thinking, exactly how much writing can I get from just one word? So, so much my friend! One word typically has multiple meanings and connotations. Where does that word fit into our cultural moment? Where might it be found in art? Can it be related to your current task at hand? What does this word mean to you?
Creative’s Choice Freewrite
Write about your current favorite creative work. It can be a favorite book, work of art, film, content creator’s account, campaign, etc. If something stirred passion in you before, it’s very likely that inspiration will strike twice!
Journaling
I firmly believe journaling is key for all creatives. It’s important to keep track of thoughts, ideas, emotions, goals, etc. and the patterns among them. Also, it’s important to explore these elements in depth and revisit them with some consistency. Journaling tends to add an emotional and spiritual layer to writing which can definitely inform the creative process.
How Are You Doing?
When answered honestly and thoroughly, this question can lead to breakthroughs and not just for your writing process. Sometimes, personal things can block our creativity. Write through how you’re doing physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually (address each component because you are multi-faceted human being!). When your mind and heart feel clearer, the resulting relief could lead to some newfound motivation.
When Did You Last Overcome Fear?
Human beings are truly remarkable. We rarely stop to take notice of the incredible things we accomplish on a daily basis. Now’s your chance! Recount the last time you chose courage over fear. Taking some time to remind ourselves of a past triumph can better help us meet the challenge before us.
What Art Does the World Need?
Countless creatives have remarked in interviews about their work something along the lines of, “I made what I wished/wanted/needed to see.” What’s missing in your niche or perhaps beyond it? What gap might you fill? Is there a problem you can solve? What beauty can you add? What do you wish existed for your younger self?
“Become f*cking obsessed with the process.”—Amie McNee, inspiredtowrite
Creative Writing
**You do not have to consider yourself a writer to engage in creative writing.** All I’m asking is for you to dabble a little and dare to do something different!
Depict a portrait of an Object
Look around you and identify an object. Then, thoughtfully write about that object. Use sensory language. How does the object look, feel, and smell? Is the object important to you? What broader contexts does this object fit into? Conduct this exercise with a dictionary and thesaurus nearby. Try some words that are different from your typical word pool.
Craft a Short Story
Compose a small microcosm of a narrative that can be read in one sitting. Make use of descriptive language. Many famous short stories such as those of O. Henry include a twist or a surprise ending. Perhaps incorporate one into yours!
Experiment with Writing Style
Renowned writers have a distinct writing style. They leave an impression on the page. Writing style is vitally important to a strong piece of writing, yet many writers are uncertain of their own. Select a topic that you know well and freewrite through that topic. Then, go back and see if you can identify traces of your style. If not, rewrite the piece and try to bring your writing voice to the forefront.
Creativity Audit
An important aspect of any creative process is knowing how you work best. Knowing what helps you illicit your best work will help you plan accordingly.
Ideal Writing Vibe
What writing environment helps you yield your best work? Do you prefer the privacy of a personal space or the low hum of a coffee shop? Do you need absolute quiet, some music, or a sound machine? Does aromatherapy help? Do you need something tactile to fidget with?
Writing Wellness
From time to time, it’s good to assess how healthy you are in regards to your craft. Sometimes, writing becomes a source of exasperation rather than a source of joy. Write through the following questions: Has writing become merely a means to an end? Has the majority of your writing become monetized? Do you ever write for the sake of writing? How do you feel when you’re writing?
Creative Kindling
Writers and creatives must continually stoke the fire of their imaginations. If you’re feeling stuck, you may be down to your creative embers and in desperate need of some kindling.
Peruse the headlines. Check trends. Read an article. Listen to a new podcast. Go down a rabbit hole online. Take a hike. Try a new activity. Revisit a favorite book, writer, artist, or content creator. Whatever you decide, keep your eyes and ears open. Be a noticer and see if something captures your interest for a new project.
Writer’s block and burnout are difficult to contend with for sure, but they are temporary. Thankfully, the creative process, like life, is dynamic and constantly in motion. This makes it impossible for hard phases to last.
Bookmark this article and return to it as you need to! Pair it with our piece, 5 Reasons to Keep Writing. And remember, inspiration is never very far away!
