Sunday, August 10, 2008

Creative Choppiness

Ever feel like you are struggling when writing a story? Kind of like writer's block but not. You're still writing, still going through the motions of writing, still putting words on paper....maybe not sentences, but at least words.

The thought process is almost choppy, slightly forced, but you know if you could just get the clutter out of the way, you'd find a constant stream, rather than dribbles and drips.

So, how do you get past the choppiness?

1) Keep writing. If the words are there but not quite flowing, that means that something wants to be unleashed. Something is lingering ready to push forward.
2) Step away from the computer. If you have been writing, but the flood gates are still closed, step away from your writing. Come back an hour later and read what you have written. Everything looks clearer when you come back to it with fresh eyes.
3) Have a nap. If all else fails, just sleep for 20 mins. Maybe your brain is tired and needs to restore some energy. Most of us never allow ourselves to have a nap. We just pluggin' away like machines. Take that time to help the brain rejuvenate.
4) Eat cookies. Sometimes a nice break of milk and cookies is what your spirit needs. Indulge a little bit and enjoy the moment.

1 comment:

Ian said...

Mmmmm...cookies...