There are many forms of writing, yet there’s something that all writing genres have in common. Whether you’re a copywriter, fiction writer or (insert type of writing here), there’s always a certain level of creativity needed to be successful. Another issue that knows no boundaries within all categories is that, sometimes, writers don’t “feel” all that creative when they sit down to put their thoughts on paper.
Every writer, as well as every writing endeavor, is unique. However, there are several things that can help all writers spark creativity. Whether you’re new to the world of writing or have been at it for decades, if you make sure you have these three things, you’ll reduce the likelihood of the dreaded writer’s block.
Mentors are not just for novice writers
A mentor is someone who is experienced and trusted as an adviser. While people typically think of mentors in conjunction with training and teaching inexperienced or younger colleagues, that doesn’t necessarily have to be the case. As a writer, you will always benefit from spending time with other writers whom you admire. In fact, your mentor doesn’t even have to be a writer – just someone who lives life or conducts business in such a way that helps you become the best version of yourself.
If you have a writing mentor in your life, you’re less likely to struggle with creativity. A casual conversation or time shared with someone who inspires you helps the creative wheels in your mind keep turning.
Never stop challenging yourself as a writer or in your everyday life
Especially if you’ve been writing for many years, there’s a tendency to become “too comfortable.” In some ways, a comfort zone is a good thing. For instance, if you’re a copywriter who works with the same type of content product day in and day out, it’s helpful to settle in, find a system that works, and then start pumping out those articles, blog posts or whatever the content happens to be.
Becoming too comfortable, however, can backfire and lead to writer’s block. To avoid this, it’s always a good idea to challenge yourself. With writing, you can do this by delving into genres you don’t usually approach in your line of work. For instance, if you are a legal copywriter, you might challenge yourself in your free time by trying your hand at poetry. Personal challenges in everyday life help keep creative juices flowing as well. Whether you set some new fitness goals or learn a new skill, setting goals and raising the bar once in a while helps your mind stay active.
Optimize exposure to new people, places, things and experiences
Of the three helpful tips provided in this post, this is probably the most important when the goal is to boost creativity. Think back to a time when you saw something for the first time – perhaps the ocean, or a particular species of bird or unique type of flower. Remember the delight you felt, the wonder of it all, and the awe? Exposure to new things or people and places and experiences are the “ignition switch” that sparks creativity in a writer’s mind.
Most writers are naturally observant. When you see new people or go to a place you’ve never been, your level of observation is immediately piqued. You’re like a child in a candy store! The “newness” translates to thoughts and ideas that eventually may find their way into one of your stories.
Use it or lose it – creativity that is
These three ideas are helpful for boosting creativity because each of them, in some way, engages the mind. If you don’t spend time with people who inspire you, never set goals, or rise to a challenge and never expose yourself to new ideas, scenes or experiences, you can’t expect your mind to come up with new thoughts.
The best way to boost creativity is to use your mind on a daily basis as much as possible. Tapping into support resources, working toward new goals, and meeting new people or visiting new places provides the stimulation that leads to writing success.
