A new year is rather like a blank sheet of paper,
full of possibility. Perhaps you made some resolutions casually
over a few drinks with friends at a party or maybe you sat down
with a book such as ‘Your Best Year Yet’ by Jinny
Ditzler (I recommend this!) and mapped out which areas of your
life you would like to change. Evidence shows that writing things
down can really help to make them happen.
If you have decided that this is the year you
are going to start writing for the first time, revisit a previous
piece of writing or write a book, then you have to put pen to
paper and get going. However, just like the year ahead, that
blank sheet of paper can feel like the unknown, daunting, as
well as exciting. Here are some tips on getting started…
Set the Scene
I once met an author who said that whenever he felt ready to
write, he picked up his key, which was, significantly, on a
plastic key ring shaped like a bunch of bananas, and went off
to unlock the door to his den in the back garden. Whether you
have a special pen, a favourite corner in your home or a lucky
scarf, rituals can help to reinforce the feeling of being in
writing mode.
Start Wherever You Are
If you just wait for inspiration to descend, you may have a
long wait. Simply start by writing about whatever moves you
right now and allow your creativity to flow - without judgement.
You can always dot the i’s and cross the t’s later!
Commit
You may be full of good intentions but when life gets busy it
can be hard to stick to a regular writing practice. Establish
a routine by setting aside a particular time every day or each
week that is right for you. If you feel at your most creative
at 5am, when the rest of the world is still asleep, then go
for it.
You Are Not Alone
Writing is by nature a solitary pursuit, but you still need
support as you progress on the writer’s path. You could
stay at your PC and interact within a website forum or if you
prefer some face-to-face contact, then you may want to get together
with a trusted friend, attend a community group or find a coach.
And of course, don’t forget the supportive power of a
good book!
Keep Your Inspiration Flowing
The true meaning of inspiration is to be ‘in spirit’,
which is the source of creativity. When you aren’t writing,
it is important to replenish that inner well of ideas. You could
meditate, go for a run, spend time in nature, go somewhere you’ve
never been (close to home or far away) or even read what other
people have written.
The key to all of the above is to tune into yourself
and choose what feels right for you. Trust yourself and you
really won’t go far wrong and remember as Richard Bach
said:
“You are never given a dream without
also being given the power to make it true. You may have to
work for it, however.”
Go for it!
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