A Writer’s Guide To Staying Inspired & Motivated When It Gets SH***Y

Staring at a blank computer screen, hoping the words will come. Seeing the idea you have been secretly working on for months was just purchased by a major studio from another writer who had a similar idea. Bitter clashes over creative differences. All realities in our creative world. How does one maintain that peaceful, easy feeling inside when one's head and heart are exploding with anything but peaceful, easy feelings?

Well, first, take some quiet time to just breathe—long inhalations, long exhalations. Then, here are eight quotes to inspire you, along with practices to help you get through writer’s block and other turbulent times we all go through as part of “the creative process.”

Seek Collaboration

"The most valuable possession you can own is an open heart. The most powerful weapon you can be is an instrument of peace." ~ Carlos Santana

Collaborating with other writers can rekindle creativity, help overcome creative hurdles, give you a fresh perspective, or generate new ideas. Look for places where you can share your work and receive constructive feedback: online courses, in-person workshops, create a group with other writers.

Keep A "Victory Log"

"Peace is always possible." ~ Dalai Lama XIV

Journal about your successes, big and small. Recording positive feedback, past achievements, and moments of creative breakthrough can serve as a reminder of how far you have come and how talented you truly are. This will help you stay motivated, hopeful, and moving in a positive direction.

Draw Inspiration from Personal Relationships

"Peace is the beauty of life. It is sunshine. It is the smile of a child, the love of a mother, the joy of a father, the togetherness of a family." ~ Menachem Begin

Use the emotions and experiences from your life, especially the relationships with family and friends. Your personal stories, challenges, and joys add depth and authenticity to your characters and storylines.

Engage In Creative Warm-ups

"Peace begins with a smile." ~ Mother Teresa

Start your writing sessions by writing a quick, funny scene or describing a setting in detail. Writing something as a warm-up that has no pressure attached can reduce anxiety and help get you into a productive writing flow. Oh, and try to smile and have while doing this.

Find Common Ground

"Peace is liberty in tranquility." ~ Marcus Tullius Cicero

When creative clashes happen (and they will), resolve conflicts by focusing on shared goals and mutual interests to create harmony once again. Hopefully, this can lead to more productive and peaceful collaborations.

Acknowledge & Pivot

"Peace is the result of retraining your mind to process life as it is, rather than as you think it should be." ~ Wayne Dyer

When someone sells a similar idea, acknowledge that ideas can overlap. Instead of staying in a state of upset, pivot by finding a new perspective or twist on your concept, and explore new angles or genres. This shift in mindset can turn a setback into an opportunity. Use what seems to be a setback as a catalyst for innovation, creating fresh, unique projects that stand out.

Write For A Cause

"The purpose of human life is to serve and to show compassion and the will to help others." ~ Albert Schweitzer

Channel writing into projects that support causes you care about. Create scripts for non-profits, educational content, or advocacy campaigns. Writing with a purpose can reignite your passion and provide a sense of fulfillment.

Create & Share Inspirational Content

"Peace is not something you wish for; it's something you make, something you do, something you are, and something you give away." ~ John Lennon

Use your talent to create and share inspirational content with others. This could be a motivational blog post, a heartfelt social media update, a lounge post, or a short video about your journey as a writer. Doing this not only helps others find peace and motivation, it also gives you a sense of purpose. For instance, I wrote my recent book Take a Shot at Happiness: How to Write, Direct & Produce the Life You Want to share positivity and advice with creatives everywhere. Now it is the Nautilus Silver Award Winner 2024 “Creativity & Innovation”. The Nautilus Book Award recognizes books about spiritual growth, conscious living, and high-level wellness.

It is not always easy out there. Hopefully, you have found some help navigating the challenges we face as writers. May you find inspiration for times when feeling blocked. May find peace when there is conflict. May you find meaning in how your work impacts others. May you be resilient, creative, and happy.

Please share your thoughts about this blog. I would love to read your reaction and perspective.

Stage 32's Webinar with Maria can be found on demand: Seven Steps of Mindfulness for Creatives

Let's hear your thoughts in the comments below!

Got an idea for a post? Or have you collaborated with Stage 32 members to create a project? We'd love to hear about it. Email Ashley at blog@stage32.com and let's get your post published!

Please help support your fellow Stage 32ers by sharing this on social. Check out the social media buttons at the top to share on Instagram @stage32 , Twitter @stage32 , Facebook @stage32 , and LinkedIn @stage-32 .