4 Things to do When Writing Gets You Down

Everyone who writes finds themselves lacking motivation at one time or another, probably more than we’d like. But there is hope. Even though most of us can’t afford to employ Mr. T (even at his advanced age, I’ll bet he can still whip most of our asses) here are some pretty obvious ways to rejuvenate your zeal.

Fool_t-shirt_small
So often, it is we non-writing writers that he pities.

1. Listen to music that makes your soul shine.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZuN_gcW9lJo]

2. Read books that make your heart sing.

I likes me some LOTR. Good v. Evil (Read: You v. flagging desire).

lord-of-the-rings-lord-of-the-rings-4800286
Tolkien always brings me up. Note: Avoid doing this in one sitting, or you'll never get anything done and your spine will look like a question mark.

3. Do something physical to get a boost of positivity.

A quick walk or run, some push ups, squat thrusts… er, maybe skip those. Get those endorphins rolling and channel all that dopamine right into your keyboard.

New_River_Gorge_Bridge_Overlook
I live 5 Minutes from the trails of the New River Gorge. If I don't get out and enjoy it, I'm crazy.

4. Watch a movie that gets you going.

Maybe you like the Bonzo flicks with Ronald Reagan or you go for She-Devil with Roseanne and Meryl – better you than me. I go for this:

Gladiator
What we do in life echoes in eternity.

Usually doing any of these things serve to keep me going, to fortify my desire. What have I missed here? Do you have any special ways of kicking yourself in the pants when you’re dragging butt at the keyboard?

5 thoughts on “4 Things to do When Writing Gets You Down”

  1. We used to live near Pittsburgh and loved to stop at the New River Gorge park. It was almost exactly halfway between the family in Columbia, SC and our then-home. Just gorgeous. I’d go for a walk there everyday if it were so close:) I wanted to go kayaking there, but our kids are a bit small.

    1. I manage to get into the town park every day to walk the dog, but don’t get onto the trails as much as I should, especially given that I can walk to them from my house! I did squeeze in a bike ride with my brother yesterday and I’m feeling it today. If you are ever down this way and would like any recommendations or suggestions, let me know!

  2. Fun post, Jonathan!
    My problem is finding the time to get to the keyboard. Whenever the chance arrives I jump on it. But, for inspiration if I am lagging I find just being outside helps a lot. And reading. And certain movies do it to. Just like you mentioned.

    1. I hear you. There’s something to having limited writing time that can be a great motivator. As for getting outside, it’s nice to take a break from media saturation — The mind needs rest too! Thanks for stopping by!

  3. Pingback: uberVU - social comments

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top