sources of inspiration in creative writing

Where Does Inspiration Come From: Unveiling the Source

By: Author Paul Jenkins

Posted on July 25, 2023

Categories Creativity , Art , Inspiration

Inspiration is a powerful force that drives human creativity, innovation, and ingenuity. It can come from diverse sources, including personal experiences, cultural influences, and exposure to different ideas or environments.

While the origins of inspiration can be hard to pinpoint, it is often a crucial factor in the creative process, as it sparks our imagination, enhances our perception, and propels us towards achieving things we once thought impossible.

Throughout history, various artists, authors, and influential figures have drawn inspiration from the world around them, shaping their works and leaving an indelible impact on society.

Some have found solace in nature’s beauty, while others have looked to the human experience, emotions, or societal issues to fuel their creativity. In many instances, overcoming obstacles to inspiration becomes part of the process, challenging us to dig deep within ourselves and push through limitations.

Key Takeaways

• Inspiration plays a pivotal role in driving creativity and innovation, often stemming from diverse sources and experiences.
• Influential figures in history have drawn from various inspirations, molding their art and leaving a significant impact on society.
• Overcoming obstacles to inspiration can be an integral part of the creative process, pushing us to explore new ideas and challenge our limits.

Sources of Inspiration

Environment.

Our surroundings play a significant role in unleashing our creativity. A stimulating environment can provide a sense of wonder, leading to an evocation of inspiration. Nature, in particular, offers this transcendence, which manifests itself in moments of crystal-clear thinking and the awareness of new possibilities.

Cityscapes, with their striking architecture and vibrant culture, can also spark innovative ideas.

Role Models

In many instances, inspiration comes from the people we admire. Role models, such as successful business leaders, accomplished artists, or dedicated athletes, motivate us to strive for greatness.

By observing their actions and learning from their experiences, we can find the courage and conviction to take the necessary steps to achieve our aspirations.

The deep emotions experienced through love can inspire individuals to take bold actions and make meaningful changes in their lives. Love generates feelings of gratitude, and when we feel grateful, we become more receptive to new ideas and inspiration.

Whether it’s romantic love, parental love, or even love for a cause, this powerful emotion can act as a driving force in our lives.

Human Experience

The rich tapestry of human experience is another key source of inspiration . Our own stories and the stories of others, filled with triumphs and failures, joys and sorrows, can spark creativity by offering unique perspectives on life.

By engaging with these experiences, we hone our approach to motivation and develop a better understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

Inspiration in the Creative Process

Fiction writing.

In the realm of fiction writing , inspiration can come from a variety of sources such as personal experiences, cultural influences, or historical events. Authors often employ their imagination to create intricate worlds full of vivid detail and magical elements.

Drawing from their own emotions, writers may use a character’s development or journey as a means to explore complex themes and issues. Sometimes, inspiration can be more abstract, akin to a Rorschach test, where the author interprets their own unique meaning in the world they create.

Nonfiction Writing

Nonfiction writing can be driven by motivation to share knowledge, raise awareness, or persuade readers. Writers in this genre frequently draw on factual information, research, and personal experiences to establish credibility and present a clear perspective. Inspiration in nonfiction can be found in real-life stories, historical events, or even through unresolved questions that spark curiosity.

A nonfiction author might feel an inner drive to meticulously examine a subject and present their findings to the world, contributing to the pool of information available about that topic.

Visual Arts

Inspiration in the visual arts can be influenced by observation, environment, or personal experiences. Artists may use color, tone, and texture to express emotions, ideas, or to capture the essence of a subject.

The creative process in visual arts often involves experimenting with different materials and techniques to create a piece that evokes a certain mood or message.

Sometimes, the feeling of inspiration might come from observing an object or scene, seeing beauty or significance in the details, and translating that into a visual representation.

In music , inspiration arises from many sources, such as the natural world, the emotions, stories, or experiences of the composer or performer.

Harmony, rhythm, and melody come together to create an immersive soundscape, and the process of composing music can involve exploring these elements to create a unique and emotionally resonant piece.

Musicians might be inspired by their personal history, feelings of love, loss or hope, or even the desire to experiment with new styles or genres. The connection a listener feels with a piece of music can serve as proof of the powerful role that inspiration plays in the creative process.

Historical Moments as Inspiration

Salem witch trials.

The Salem Witch Trials were a series of hearings and prosecutions of individuals accused of witchcraft in colonial Massachusetts in the late 17th century.

This dark period in American history has sparked the interest of many writers and artists over the years, providing fertile ground for creative works.

The trials served as a reflection of societal fears and an exploration of the psychology of mass hysteria, offering a wealth of potential themes and stories to draw upon for inspiration.

Orphan Train

Between 1854 and 1929, the Orphan Train Movement transported over 200,000 orphaned and homeless children from the crowded streets of New York City to rural homes in the Midwest.

This little-known historical event presents a unique perspective on the lives of children during that time, shedding light on the hardships and triumphs they experienced.

Writers and artists have found inspiration in the Orphan Train Movement, using it as a backdrop for stories that blend fiction and nonfiction, filling in the details to illuminate this compelling chapter in American history.

Early-to-Mid-Twentieth-Century America

The early-to-mid-twentieth-century America was a time of significant change and growth, marked by events such as the Great Depression, World War II, and the Civil Rights Movement. This era has inspired countless works of literature, film, and art, with creators drawing on the struggles, successes, and societal shifts that defined the period.

By delving into this rich historical tapestry, artists can explore themes of resilience, adversity, and the capacity for change in both individuals and society as a whole.

Influential Artists and Authors

Andrew wyeth.

Andrew Wyeth, an American painter, found inspiration in the landscapes of his beloved Maine. Wyeth’s works, like “Christina’s World,” showcase his realistic style and ability to capture the hidden beauty in everyday scenes.

The painting, which features Christina Olson crawling through grass, reveals the solitude and strength of its subject. Biographer David Michaelis notes that Wyeth’s portrayal of Olson highlights a strong “Wyeth tradition” of depicting the power and beauty of the natural world.

James Whistler

James Whistler, a prominent 19th-century American-British artist, found inspiration from diverse sources such as Japanese prints and the Pre-Raphaelite movement. His most famous painting, “Whistler’s Mother,” exudes a sense of quiet strength and evokes a deep emotional response from viewers.

This influential artist’s ability to create powerful images stems from the way he transformed an ordinary scene, such as a woman sitting on a chair, into a captivating work of art.

Grant Wood, an American painter known for his work during the Regionalist movement, became an influential figure in art history with his piece “American Gothic.” This painting showcases the theme of rugged individualism and conveys defiance, perseverance, and quiet strength.

Wood’s choice to depict a man and a woman in front of an austere house, set against a barren hill, visually communicates the resilience and determination emblematic of the American spirit.

Nathaniel Hawthorne

Nathaniel Hawthorne, a celebrated American novelist, drew his inspiration from the complex moral and societal issues of his time. In his short story “Young Goodman Brown,” Hawthorne crafts a narrative centered on the struggle between good and evil in one man’s heart, set against the backdrop of Puritan New England.

Through his storytelling, Hawthorne uncovers the darker aspects of life and the human soul, revealing his unique ability to delve into profound themes and create works that continue to resonate with readers today.

Overcoming Obstacles to Inspiration

One of the main obstacles to inspiration is a lack of clarity. It’s difficult to feel inspired when you’re not sure about your goals, values, or purpose. To overcome this obstacle, take some time to reflect on your priorities and what truly matters to you. You can also seek guidance from mentors, coaches, or even inspirational quotes that resonate with you.

Breaking down larger goals into smaller, actionable steps is another way to gain clarity. When you can visualize the path you need to take, it’s easier to find the motivation to keep moving forward even when challenges arise.

Another obstacle to inspiration is the feeling of being stuck in your current situation. This can be caused by external factors, such as a demanding job, or by internal factors, such as negative thought patterns.

Regardless of the cause, feeling stuck can lead to a lack of motivation and can prevent you from seeking out new ideas or experiences that might inspire you.

To overcome this obstacle, begin by identifying the specific factors that are causing you to feel stuck. Once you have pinpointed the issues, brainstorm potential solutions or changes that could help improve your situation.

For example, if you’re feeling stuck in your career, consider what skills you could develop or what new opportunities you could pursue to break out of a rut.

Additionally, it’s important to maintain a growth mindset and be open to new experiences, even if they’re outside of your comfort zone. Embracing change and seeking new opportunities can help you break free from feeling stuck and rekindle your passion for life, ultimately leading to greater inspiration.

Remember, overcoming obstacles to inspiration requires self-awareness, determination, and a willingness to make changes. By addressing the issues of clarity and feeling stuck head-on, you can create an environment where inspiration can flourish and motivate you to reach your goals.

Themes and Symbols

Hathorn family curse.

The Hathorn family curse has its roots in the infamous Salem witch trials. John Hathorne, a presiding judge during the trials, was known for his harsh judgments and lack of remorse for the accused. The curse is often referenced in literature and art as a symbol of the family’s dark history, which has haunted subsequent generations.

Some believe the curse manifests itself through tragic or unfortunate events that continue to impact the descendants of John Hathorne.

Christina’s World

“Christina’s World” is an iconic painting by American artist Andrew Wyeth, which beautifully captures the rural landscape and its subject, Christina Olson. The painting serves as a powerful symbol of perseverance and resilience, depicting Christina, who was paralyzed from the waist down, crawling through a field towards her farmhouse.

The painting can also be seen as an exploration of isolation, as Christina appears to be lost and alone in the vast landscape.

In the novel “A Piece of the World” by Christina Baker Kline, this painting serves as the inspiration for the story, as it delves into the life of Christina Olson and the hardships she faced.

The novel weaves together themes of determination, family, and the complexities of human relationships while exploring the inspiration behind Wyeth’s masterpiece.

Wondrous Strange: The Wyeth Tradition

“Wondrous Strange: The Wyeth Tradition” is an exhibition held at the Farnsworth Museum in Rockland, Maine, which showcases the exceptional talent and artistic legacy of the Wyeth family. The exhibition presents a collection of paintings by three generations of Wyeths: N.C. Wyeth, Andrew Wyeth, and Jamie Wyeth.

The Wyeth family’s unique artistic style is characterized by their detailed and realistic portrayals of the world around them, alongside elements of mystery and symbolism. Their works often evoke a sense of loneliness, capturing the stark beauty of the landscapes they inhabited.

The exhibition also includes several famous paintings such as “Christina’s World” and “Whistler’s Mother.”

Through exploring the Hathorn family curse, “Christina’s World,” and the artistic legacy of the Wyeth family in “Wondrous Strange: The Wyeth Tradition,” we gain insight into the themes and symbols that have inspired artists, writers, and musicians throughout history.

By examining these powerful artistic works, we can better understand the roots of inspiration and the intricate web of human experiences that drive our creativity.

Language and Inspiration

Optimism plays a significant role in language and inspiration. A positive outlook and confidence in one’s ability to solve problems can stimulate creativity and help us tap into new ideas. The term ‘optimism’ comes from the Latin word ‘optimum,’ meaning ‘the best,’ which in itself inspires a sense of achievement and success.

By fostering a positive mental attitude, we become more open to receiving and acting upon inspiration.

Latin, the ancient language spoken by the Romans, has greatly influenced many modern languages and cultures. Its role in the etymology of words helps us understand the origins of our concepts and the way we interpret inspiration.

For example, the word ‘inspiration’ stems from the Latin word ‘inspirare,’ which means ‘to breathe into.’ This conveys the idea that inspiration is like a breath of life, allowing ideas and creativity to flow within us.

The Latin language has also contributed to the development of key concepts in the fields of literature, philosophy, and science, which can shape our view on inspiration and its origins.

By understanding these connections, we gain valuable insight into the nature of inspiration and how it manifests in various aspects of our lives. In conclusion, language and inspiration are intricately linked, with optimism and Latin playing a significant role in shaping our understanding and experience of the creative process.

The Spirit of Inspiration

The spirit of inspiration can be traced back to the very core of our being – the human body. Breathing, in particular, is believed to be connected to the process of receiving and generating the ideas that fuel creativity. The root word for inspiration comes from the same word for “to breathe.”

This connection implies that inspiration might be considered a deep breath of life that rejuvenates our minds and souls.

Researchers have also found that our brains play a significant role in nurturing the spirit of inspiration. It involves various regions of the brain, and these connections foster the generation of new ideas and innovative thinking.

This highlights the importance of maintaining a healthy body and mind.

Possibility

Another aspect of the spirit of inspiration lies in the realm of possibility. When we are open to new experiences and ideas, we are more likely to tap into diverse sources of inspiration. It is essential to keep our minds agile and be receptive to change, growth, and learning.

This encourages us not only to generate novel concepts but also to act upon them and turn them into reality.

In this sense, the spirit of inspiration is interwoven with the spirit of possibility. Both are essential to help us embrace new opportunities and ultimately shape the world around us. By nurturing our curiosity and thirst for knowledge, we create a fertile environment for the spirit of inspiration to thrive.

In conclusion, the spirit of inspiration is closely associated with the human body, its processes, and the possibilities we open ourselves up to.

By maintaining a healthy body, mind, and attitude towards life, we can create an environment that allows the spirit of inspiration to take root and flourish.

Frequently Asked Questions

What sources commonly spark inspiration.

Sources of inspiration can vary greatly among individuals, and they often come from personal experiences, nature, art, literature, or other people’s stories and achievements. In Greek myth, inspiration is considered a gift from the muses, the nine daughters of Zeus and Mnemosyne.

However, inspiration can also come from one’s environment and emotions, which contribute to generating new ideas and creativity.

How do our brains process inspiration?

Our brains process inspiration by creating connections between different thoughts, experiences, and emotions. These connections can lead to new insights and creative ideas. It is believed that inspiration comes from the subconscious mind, which stores all our memories and experiences and taps into them when we least expect it.

The process of inspiration is still not fully understood, but it is a crucial aspect of human creativity.

Why is inspiration important in daily life?

Inspiration holds immense importance in daily life as it fuels motivation, creativity, and personal growth. It pushes us to explore new ideas, take risks, and overcome obstacles. When we are inspired, we are more likely to pursue our passions and engage in activities we find meaningful. Inspiration can also be contagious, as it can motivate those around us and even boost well-being and overall happiness.

Can external factors influence inspiration?

Yes, external factors can significantly influence inspiration. Our environment, interactions with others, and exposure to new experiences can all trigger the feeling of inspiration.

By surrounding ourselves with positive and creative environments or influences, we can foster a mindset that is more open to inspiration. It is essential to recognize that inspiration can sometimes be found in the most unexpected places .

How do inspirational people impact others?

Inspirational people can have a profound impact on others by serving as role models, catalysts for change, and sources of motivation.

Through their actions, stories, and achievements, they can inspire others to step out of their comfort zones, pursue their passions, and strive for personal growth. In turn, those individuals may go on to inspire even more people, creating a ripple effect of positive change and growth in society.

What role does biology play in inspiration?

While the exact role of biology in inspiration is still unclear, research suggests that specific neural pathways and brain regions may be involved in the process. Inspiration is related to the production and transport of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with motivation, pleasure, and reward.

Additionally, the brain’s prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for problem-solving, decision-making, and creative thinking, may also play a significant role in generating inspiration. Overall, it is likely that a complex interplay between biology and personal experiences contributes to inspiration.

How to Cultivate Writing Inspiration

by Melissa Donovan | Dec 3, 2020 | Creative Writing | 0 comments

Get more creative by cultivating writing inspiration.

Do you ever sit down to write only to discover hours later that you’ve done nothing but stare off into space with a blank look on your face, occasionally breaking from your stupor to notice that you haven’t written a single word?

I bet there have also been times when you were bursting with creativity — when you couldn’t get the words out of your head and onto the page (or screen) fast enough.

Don’t you wish writing could always be like that?

Creative writing requires skill, focus, and motivation. But is inspiration necessary? Can we write if we’re not inspired?

What is Inspiration?

Oxford defines  inspiration as “the process of being mentally stimulated to do or feel something, especially to do something creative” or “a sudden brilliant, creative, or timely idea.”

Unfortunately, inspiration is fleeting. Sometimes you have it; sometimes you don’t.

Fortunately, you can cultivate inspiration and keep creativity and ideas flowing, so you can get your projects finished and achieve those writing goals you’ve set for yourself.

And if all else fails, it is possible to write when you’re not feeling inspired. That’s why it’s called work, folks.

Below you’ll find a big list of questions, activities, and ideas that will help you cultivate writing inspiration.

Reread your favorite book:  You know the one, the book that made you want to become a writer. Remember how it made you feel?

Create an inspiration log to track your creativity:  Whenever you’re feeling inspired, log the time and place and make some notes about what you’ve been doing. Tracking can help you understand what inspires you, and then you can use that information to be more inspired, more often.

Check in with yourself:  Start with the HALT method: are you h ungry, a ngry, l onely, or t ired? Are you stressed or dealing with health issues? You might need to set your writing aside, but most of the time, you shouldn’t let life’s road bumps bring your writing progress to a halt. Take care of yourself, and then get back to writing.

Shake up your intake of art and entertainment:  Turn off Netflix and visit a virtual museum. Mute your music streaming service and watch some live concerts online. Log out of social media and read a book.

Get disciplined:  Sometimes inspiration (or lack thereof) isn’t the real problem. Sometimes you’re just not in the mood to write. Maybe you’re feeling lazy. Perhaps you’d rather be doing something else. Consider whether you need to work on your self-discipline.

Leverage inspiration when you’ve got it:  When inspiration strikes, make lots of notes, create outlines, do a brain dump. Then, when you’re feeling uninspired, you’ll have plenty of ideas to work with, and all you’ll need to do is motivate yourself to do the work.

Stock up on books on the craft:  I don’t know about you, but books on the craft of writing are one of my best motivators. I am almost always reading one, even if only for those times when I need a spark to ignite a writing session. Pick up a few books on the craft of writing and flip through them when you need inspiration.

Journal your lack of inspiration:  You’re a writer, so hopefully you have a journal or some kind of writer’s notebook. Use it to explore why you’re not inspired and then journal your way back to inspiration.

Write while uninspired:  Writing while uninspired is an important skill for writers to develop. Conditions for writing will not always be perfect. In fact, they will rarely be perfect. Train yourself to work under imperfect, uninspired conditions. Professional writers either learn how to write regardless of how inspired they’re feeling, or they learn how to get inspired on command. Either way, they get it done.

Try meditation or deep breathing:  Meditation is proven to improve focus and lower stress, two problems that can inhibit creativity. Coincidentally, studies also show that meditation boosts creativity .

Are you uninspired or unmotivated?  I tend to think of inspiration as the crossroad where ideas and motivation meet. Are you in need of ideas or are you just unmotivated? Both? Once you figure out the problem, it’s a lot easier to solve.

Create an inspiration board:  Or jar. Or box. The idea is to create a collection of things that inspire you so you can peruse them whenever you’re feeling uninspired. Fill it with pictures, notes, quotes, and more. You can make a digital collection or an analog collection (or make one of each).

Know your muse:  The best way to stay inspired and keep creativity flowing is to know what inspires you and make it part of your routine. For example, if reading inspires you, then incorporate twenty minutes of reading into your daily routine, right before your writing session.

Adjust your routine:  Speaking of routines, you can train yourself to be inspired by writing every day at around the same time. I’m not saying it will be easy. Some days, getting just a handful of words onto the page will be a struggle. But in time, you’ll be more inspired more often, and on schedule!

Avoid burnout:  Are you experiencing burnout? I have experienced writer’s burnout, and it’s definitely an inspiration killer. The best cure for burnout is prevention. Pace yourself to maintain a steady flow of creativity and try to create a balanced lifestyle. While some writers are productive by binge writing, most of us get better results with a steady, balanced writing schedule.

Mingle with other writers:  Do you have a critique partner? Beta readers? A writing group? If not, log into social media and check in with the writing community. Discussing the craft with other writers is one of the best way to get motivated and inspired.

Do it anyway:  Sometimes you might not be able to invoke deep feelings of inspiration. In fact, there might be times when you are not only uninspired, you intensely don’t want to write. Do it anyway , especially if you’re working on a major project with a serious intent to finish it. Train yourself to write regardless of how inspired you feel.

Get out of a rut:  Do you do the same things day in and day out? Has your life become monotonous? Do something spontaneous, or plan something that breaks you out of your rut. Often, shaking up an old routine gives you a new perspective, and new perspectives are great for getting inspired.

Get a new perspective:  While we’re on the subject, there are plenty of ways to get new perspective. Go to a restaurant you’ve always wanted to try. Take a day trip to another town. Visit a museum, go see an old friend, or take a walk along a lake or river. Get to someplace you’ve never been (or haven’t seen in a while) and see if it inspires you. Bring a camera!

Get inspired by nature:  Creators have always been inspired by nature. Spend a few minutes listening for the birds or examining the night sky. Take a short walk to look at the neighborhood plants and flowers. Head to a local park or go to the beach. Find some way to connect with nature. Don’t forget to bring your notebook!

Peruse your old notebooks and files:  If you’ve been writing for a significant amount of time, you’ve probably accumulated a bunch of unused material. Buried in your notebooks and files, you might find a gem of an idea that sparks your inspiration.

Review your goals:  Why do you want to write? What are you trying to achieve? Do you write for fun? For personal expression? Are you trying to make a career of it? What writing have you done? What do you want to do in the future? Sometimes reminding yourself why you want to write is all the inspiration you need.

Do not let yourself off the hook:  It can be tempting to skip a writing session or complete some other task when you’re not feeling especially inspired. If this happens once in a while, it’s harmless. But if you’re constantly not getting your writing done because you’re not inspired enough, then you’ve arrived at a point where you’re just making excuses. Take control of your situation.

Are you overthinking?  If you’re analyzing every idea and overthinking every word you write, you might not be suffering from lack of inspiration; you could simply be putting too much undue pressure on yourself. Stop worrying. Stop trying to be perfect. Stop trying to be someone else. Use the inspiration you’ve got and put your best words on the page. You can always improve upon them later.

Money:  Okay, I have to admit that I bristle at the idea of using money as a motivator or as inspiration. But that’s just me. Plenty of people have found money to be a source of inspiration (or motivation). Sometimes the idea of making money from writing will get the words flowing. Other times, money finds its way into poetry and stories and essays, as a topic. If money inspires you, so be it. Use it to to your advantage.

Clean up:  We’ve all heard of creative geniuses who surround themselves with clutter. But a tidy and clean environment can make us feel clear and focused. I find that my inspiration flows more easily when I’m not distracted by dust. Take a few minutes to clean up your writing space and see if it clears the way for some writing inspiration.

Write yourself into inspiration: Open your current project, read the last few sentences you wrote, and then keep going, even if all you come up with is gibberish. You might find that after five or ten minutes, your write yourself into some inspiration.

Ease up on the pressure:  Whatever you do, stop telling yourself that you have to be great. If you shun every idea because it’s stupid or because it’s been done before, or if you’re constantly comparing yourself to the greats, then you need to stop and remove some of that pressure you’re putting on yourself. How is your muse supposed to find you under a mountain of unrealistic expectations? Lighten up!

Write by hand:  There’s something about writing on paper with a pen that makes lots of writers feel more creative, myself included. In fact, if I’m in need of writing inspiration, I’ll often crack open my journal and start writing down random words and phrases. That’s when the magic happens. Ideas start to appear. Writing inspiration has arrived.

Prompts and exercises:  Prompts are designed to spark ideas and exercises are designed to teach writing concepts and provide practice. Both can provide endless sources of writing inspiration. You will find plenty of writing prompts and exercises right here at Writing Forward.

Make good use of the internet:  The internet can be toxic and overwhelming, but it’s also an amazing resource, and you can use it to drum up some writing inspiration. Scroll through images on Pinterest, research your favorite topics, peruse online bookstores. I recommend setting a timer to limit your web surfing, lest you get sucked down the notorious rabbit hole.

Make an aesthetic (inspiration) board:  An aesthetic board is a collection of images that represent a project, a person, or an idea. Get a large piece of cardboard and then tape or glue inspiring images to it. You can also create boards for story worlds, characters, and other elements of your writing projects. Hang your inspiration board near your writing space.

Brainstorm:  Don’t worry about writing sentences and paragraphs; just do some brainstorming. Make lists of characters, jot down details about your story world, take some notes about the subject you’re addressing in your next essay, create word lists for your poetry. Brainstorming will often get your creative juices flowing.

Make a running list of things that inspire you:  Do you feel compelled to write when listening to music? Does any particular type of music inspire you? A certain song? Do you get ideas for writing while exercising? Driving? Showering? Do certain places or people inspire you? Make a list of all these things. Be sure to maintain your list and continue adding to it as you discover new sources of inspiration.

Do some editing:  Editing is a close cousin to writing, and I often find that while editing, I get lots of new ideas. You can self-edit your own writing projects or offer to do some editing for a writer friend. Something about working with words engages inspiration.

Write a letter:  Here’s the kicker: you don’t have to send the letter you write. If it’s too personal (or too negative), you can burn it. Surely you have something you want to say and someone to whom want to say it. Do it in a letter, and watch the inspiration come pouring forth.

Make a list of questions:  I recommend starting with “what if?” But any questions will do. You can ask questions about the universe, questions about human nature, questions about what you should wear to the next holiday party. Explore your curiosity and let inspiration spring from it.

Morning pages and free-writes:  Morning pages and free-writes are two of the most beloved and proven techniques for keeping inspiration flowing. Morning pages are three pages of your handwritten thoughts each and every morning. Free-writes can be any length (or set a timer) of stream-of-consciousness writing. Both serve two purposes: they purge your mind of debris and they produce gems of inspiration.

Taking Control of Your Writing Inspiration

Sometimes inspiration is like an old faucet. You turn the handle and you get a slow drip of rusty water. You turn it off, clean the pipes a bit, then try again. This time the water flows, but it’s still rusty. You try again. And again. It might take several tries, but eventually the water flows, clean and clear.

Inspiration is a lot like that.

Writers who complain of problems like writer’s block or lack of inspiration are often just missing the drive, discipline, and motivation to get their work done. If writing is just a hobby or something you do purely for fun, then that’s fine. Write when you feel like it, and don’t worry about it the rest of the time.

But if you have serious writing goals that you’re trying to accomplish, then you need to take control of your creativity and learn how to manage your writing inspiration.

What do you do when you want to write but are feeling uninspired? Got any tips for generating writing inspiration that can be added to this list? Share your thoughts about cultivating inspiration by leaving a comment, and keep writing.

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What is Creative Writing? A Key Piece of the Writer’s Toolbox

Not all writing is the same and there’s a type of writing that has the ability to transport, teach, and inspire others like no other.

Creative writing stands out due to its unique approach and focus on imagination. Here’s how to get started and grow as you explore the broad and beautiful world of creative writing!

What is Creative Writing?

Creative writing is a form of writing that extends beyond the bounds of regular professional, journalistic, academic, or technical forms of literature. It is characterized by its emphasis on narrative craft, character development, and the use of literary tropes or poetic techniques to express ideas in an original and imaginative way.

Creative writing can take on various forms such as:

• short stories
• screenplays

It’s a way for writers to express their thoughts, feelings, and ideas in a creative, often symbolic, way . It’s about using the power of words to transport readers into a world created by the writer.

5 Key Characteristics of Creative Writing

Creative writing is marked by several defining characteristics, each working to create a distinct form of expression:

1. Imagination and Creativity: Creative writing is all about harnessing your creativity and imagination to create an engaging and compelling piece of work. It allows writers to explore different scenarios, characters, and worlds that may not exist in reality.

2. Emotional Engagement: Creative writing often evokes strong emotions in the reader. It aims to make the reader feel something — whether it’s happiness, sorrow, excitement, or fear.

3. Originality: Creative writing values originality. It’s about presenting familiar things in new ways or exploring ideas that are less conventional.

4. Use of Literary Devices: Creative writing frequently employs literary devices such as metaphors, similes, personification, and others to enrich the text and convey meanings in a more subtle, layered manner.

5. Focus on Aesthetics: The beauty of language and the way words flow together is important in creative writing. The aim is to create a piece that’s not just interesting to read, but also beautiful to hear when read aloud.

Remember, creative writing is not just about producing a work of art. It’s also a means of self-expression and a way to share your perspective with the world. Whether you’re considering it as a hobby or contemplating a career in it, understanding the nature and characteristics of creative writing can help you hone your skills and create more engaging pieces .

For more insights into creative writing, check out our articles on creative writing jobs and what you can do with a creative writing degree and is a degree in creative writing worth it .

Styles of Creative Writing

To fully understand creative writing , you must be aware of the various styles involved. Creative writing explores a multitude of genres, each with its own unique characteristics and techniques.

Poetry is a form of creative writing that uses expressive language to evoke emotions and ideas. Poets often employ rhythm, rhyme, and other poetic devices to create pieces that are deeply personal and impactful. Poems can vary greatly in length, style, and subject matter, making this a versatile and dynamic form of creative writing.

Short Stories

Short stories are another common style of creative writing. These are brief narratives that typically revolve around a single event or idea. Despite their length, short stories can provide a powerful punch, using precise language and tight narrative structures to convey a complete story in a limited space.

Novels represent a longer form of narrative creative writing. They usually involve complex plots, multiple characters, and various themes. Writing a novel requires a significant investment of time and effort; however, the result can be a rich and immersive reading experience.

Screenplays

Screenplays are written works intended for the screen, be it television, film, or online platforms. They require a specific format, incorporating dialogue and visual descriptions to guide the production process. Screenwriters must also consider the practical aspects of filmmaking, making this an intricate and specialized form of creative writing.

If you’re interested in this style, understanding creative writing jobs and what you can do with a creative writing degree can provide useful insights.

Writing for the theater is another specialized form of creative writing. Plays, like screenplays, combine dialogue and action, but they also require an understanding of the unique dynamics of the theatrical stage. Playwrights must think about the live audience and the physical space of the theater when crafting their works.

Each of these styles offers unique opportunities for creativity and expression. Whether you’re drawn to the concise power of poetry, the detailed storytelling of novels, or the visual language of screenplays and plays, there’s a form of creative writing that will suit your artistic voice. The key is to explore, experiment, and find the style that resonates with you.

For those looking to spark their creativity, our article on creative writing prompts offers a wealth of ideas to get you started.

Importance of Creative Writing

Understanding what is creative writing involves recognizing its value and significance. Engaging in creative writing can provide numerous benefits – let’s take a closer look.

Developing Creativity and Imagination

Creative writing serves as a fertile ground for nurturing creativity and imagination. It encourages you to think outside the box, explore different perspectives, and create unique and original content. This leads to improved problem-solving skills and a broader worldview , both of which can be beneficial in various aspects of life.

Through creative writing, one can build entire worlds, create characters, and weave complex narratives, all of which are products of a creative mind and vivid imagination. This can be especially beneficial for those seeking creative writing jobs and what you can do with a creative writing degree .

Enhancing Communication Skills

Creative writing can also play a crucial role in honing communication skills. It demands clarity, precision, and a strong command of language. This helps to improve your vocabulary, grammar, and syntax, making it easier to express thoughts and ideas effectively .

Moreover, creative writing encourages empathy as you often need to portray a variety of characters from different backgrounds and perspectives. This leads to a better understanding of people and improved interpersonal communication skills.

Exploring Emotions and Ideas

One of the most profound aspects of creative writing is its ability to provide a safe space for exploring emotions and ideas. It serves as an outlet for thoughts and feelings , allowing you to express yourself in ways that might not be possible in everyday conversation.

Writing can be therapeutic, helping you process complex emotions, navigate difficult life events, and gain insight into your own experiences and perceptions. It can also be a means of self-discovery , helping you to understand yourself and the world around you better.

So, whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting out, the benefits of creative writing are vast and varied. For those interested in developing their creative writing skills, check out our articles on creative writing prompts and how to teach creative writing . If you’re considering a career in this field, you might find our article on is a degree in creative writing worth it helpful.

4 Steps to Start Creative Writing

Creative writing can seem daunting to beginners, but with the right approach, anyone can start their journey into this creative field. Here are some steps to help you start creative writing .

1. Finding Inspiration

The first step in creative writing is finding inspiration . Inspiration can come from anywhere and anything. Observe the world around you, listen to conversations, explore different cultures, and delve into various topics of interest.

Reading widely can also be a significant source of inspiration. Read different types of books, articles, and blogs. Discover what resonates with you and sparks your imagination.

For structured creative prompts, visit our list of creative writing prompts to get your creative juices flowing.

Editor’s Note : When something excites or interests you, stop and take note – it could be the inspiration for your next creative writing piece.

2. Planning Your Piece

Once you have an idea, the next step is to plan your piece . Start by outlining:

• the main points

Remember, this can serve as a roadmap to guide your writing process. A plan doesn’t have to be rigid. It’s a flexible guideline that can be adjusted as you delve deeper into your writing. The primary purpose is to provide direction and prevent writer’s block.

3. Writing Your First Draft

After planning your piece, you can start writing your first draft . This is where you give life to your ideas and breathe life into your characters.

Don’t worry about making it perfect in the first go. The first draft is about getting your ideas down on paper . You can always refine and polish your work later. And if you don’t have a great place to write that first draft, consider a journal for writing .

4. Editing and Revising Your Work

The final step in the creative writing process is editing and revising your work . This is where you fine-tune your piece, correct grammatical errors, and improve sentence structure and flow.

Editing is also an opportunity to enhance your storytelling . You can add more descriptive details, develop your characters further, and make sure your plot is engaging and coherent.

Remember, writing is a craft that improves with practice . Don’t be discouraged if your first few pieces don’t meet your expectations. Keep writing, keep learning, and most importantly, enjoy the creative process.

For more insights on creative writing, check out our articles on how to teach creative writing or creative writing activities for kids.

Tips to Improve Creative Writing Skills

Understanding what is creative writing is the first step. But how can one improve their creative writing skills? Here are some tips that can help.

Read Widely

Reading is a vital part of becoming a better writer. By immersing oneself in a variety of genres, styles, and authors, one can gain a richer understanding of language and storytelling techniques . Different authors have unique voices and methods of telling stories, which can serve as inspiration for your own work. So, read widely and frequently!

Practice Regularly

Like any skill, creative writing improves with practice. Consistently writing — whether it be daily, weekly, or monthly — helps develop your writing style and voice . Using creative writing prompts can be a fun way to stimulate your imagination and get the words flowing.

Attend Writing Workshops and Courses

Formal education such as workshops and courses can offer structured learning and expert guidance. These can provide invaluable insights into the world of creative writing, from understanding plot development to character creation. If you’re wondering is a degree in creative writing worth it, these classes can also give you a taste of what studying creative writing at a higher level might look like .

Joining Writing Groups and Communities

Being part of a writing community can provide motivation, constructive feedback, and a sense of camaraderie. These groups often hold regular meetings where members share their work and give each other feedback. Plus, it’s a great way to connect with others who share your passion for writing.

Seeking Feedback on Your Work

Feedback is a crucial part of improving as a writer. It offers a fresh perspective on your work, highlighting areas of strength and opportunities for improvement. Whether it’s from a writing group, a mentor, or even friends and family, constructive criticism can help refine your writing .

Start Creative Writing Today!

Remember, becoming a proficient writer takes time and patience. So, don’t be discouraged by initial challenges. Keep writing, keep learning, and most importantly, keep enjoying the process. Who knows, your passion for creative writing might even lead to creative writing jobs and what you can do with a creative writing degree .

Happy writing!

Brooks Manley

Creative Primer  is a resource on all things journaling, creativity, and productivity. We’ll help you produce better ideas, get more done, and live a more effective life.

My name is Brooks. I do a ton of journaling, like to think I’m a creative (jury’s out), and spend a lot of time thinking about productivity. I hope these resources and product recommendations serve you well. Reach out if you ever want to chat or let me know about a journal I need to check out!

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Inspiration, Insight, and the Literary Creative Process

The roles of inspiration and insight differ in the literary creative process..

Posted October 14, 2019

It is generally assumed that the literary creative process, especially poetic creation, starts with an inspiration. Popular descriptions of the poet creating a poem usually conjure up an image of a brooding and silent figure whose face suddenly becomes transfigured and illuminated by a thought or idea which is quickly converted into scribbled notes, full-blown poetic lines or even entire poems at one sitting. Although sophisticated persons can, on a moment's reflection, easily reject this image as a caricature, it is amazingly persistent as an implicit influence on the most learned analyses of the literary creative process. This is not simply the result of a specific type of romanticism; it has a time-honored basis in the writings of some of the most serious and revered thinkers in western history.

There is good reason to believe, public testimonials to the contrary notwithstanding, that the emphasis on inspiration is fallacious. Inspiration is neither the invariant starting point of the literary creative process nor is it necessarily the most critical aspect. It has become important to assert this, not only for scientific reasons but because erroneous notions about inspiration have contributed to an almost dangerous situation in contemporary American life. Many young people today at all levels of society have resorted to ingestion of mind-expanding drugs, large doses of marijuana, cocaine, opioids as well as heroin and others, partly on the basis of a popular rationalization that such drugs enhance creativity . Published examples of literature and art produced under the influence of these drugs and controlled studies of creative performance do not support this notion. Nevertheless, the belief continues because it is based in part on a widespread tendency to equate inspiration with the entire creative process. Since drug-induced experiences seem to be similar in some ways to inspirations, it is assumed that drug experiences will produce creations.

In correcting the emphasis on inspiration in relation to creativity, I want to make clear that the term inspiration refers to an intrinsically dramatic experience. It indicates more than the simple achievement of a good idea. The term derives from the act of breathing and the implication that what is inspired or taken in sustains or imbues life, is inextricably bound into its meaning. Suddenness, a sense of breakthrough, an impulse to action—usually writing something down but also running out of the bath, like the ancient Greek Archimedes, shouting "Eureka, I found it!" and an associated transient emotional relief –often associated with an actual physical sigh or explication of "Aha" – are all, to some degree, invariant components of the experience. The term does not simply refer to the inception of a thought process although it is sometimes loosely used in this way. In other words, the popular image of the behavioral manifestations of an inspiratory experience is actually correct, but the popular conception of the role of inspiration in literary creation is incorrect. My prizewinning literary research subjects (over 75 men and women) have reported that they seldom, if ever, have an inspiratory experience at the inception of a literary work and that very few such experiences occur during the course of the process of creation. These subjects represent many different styles of poetry and literature including iambic, imagist, confessional, "beat," projectivist, and lyrical. Furthermore, an extensive study of poetic manuscripts and biographical material covering many centuries carried out by Phyllis Bartlett has turned up much evidence indicating that inspiratory experiences in poetry have been an exception rather than a rule.

What is the actual role of inspiration in the literary creative process, especially in the writing of poetry? To answer this, let me briefly summarize what I have learned about the psychological sequence in literary creations. A poem, for instance, generally begins with a mood, visual image, word, or phrase. The poet usually refers to the formulation of a word or phrase as the inception of a poem because moods or images which do not translate into words become diffused or changed. They are forgotten or else they do not remain associated with a specific poem. Occasionally, a poet reports that a poem began with a moral or intellectual statement in mind. Many poets are embarrassed to admit this because of their feeling that poems should not be constructed or contrived primarily to make a particular statement but that they should be spontaneous emotive outpourings.

The experience of beginning a poem differs from inspiration in that it is seldom accompanied by a sense of breakthrough, relief, or discovery. There is some degree of impulse to action in writing a poem, which may operate in a range and variety·of ways: actually interrupting a conversation or task to work on the poem until completed, jotting down some notes, or simply an active resolution in the mind to remember the word or words and work on the poem at some convenient later time. Rather than relief, however, the overriding feeling reported is that of tension. This tension is partly about getting down to work and writing. It is relieved by the process of writing and is only dissipated to a large degree by the actual completion of the poem. It is also, however, tension and an anxiety about finding out what the poem is really about. Over and over again, my literary research subjects tell me that they seldom know what a poem is really "saying" until they are well into the writing process, until they have actually finished it or, in some cases, until months or years later.

When they do find out "what the poem is really saying," they experience a sense of illumination, discovery, and oftentimes, relief. The poet's allusion to "what the poem is really saying," the meaning of this phrase to him, is quite variable. Although most of my subjects are understandably reluctant to spell out a prosaic formulation of "what the poem is really saying," they may cite a particular line, phrase, or stanza in the poem itself as the embodiment of the idea. Often this line, phrase, or stanza is the final one in the poem, the punchline in a sense, but many other sections may also be cited. Psychologically minded subjects may cite a particular line or set of lines and say, "it's talking about cannibalism" and the most psychologically minded subjects will cite the line also but will say, "it's about my own concerns about being cannibalistic." My point here is that the subject’s discovery has always seemed to me to be a personal discovery or insight of some sort and that, even when cited as an aesthetic statement, the statement often seems to be a type of personal discovery. I base this conclusion both on what my most psychologically minded subjects have said and on my own knowledge of the less psychologically minded subjects' personalities and concerns.

Let me, however, make it immediately clear that I do not mean that these later discoveries are true inspirations; quite the contrary. To repeat: True inspirations do occasionally occur before and during the course of writing but they are not discoveries of the meaning or purpose of the literary work. These later discoveries are not particularly associated with an impulse to action but, depending on their strength and certainty, are often associated with a sense of completion, a signal that the work is finished or virtually so. The discoveries function to reduce and resolve a good deal of the tension and anxiety which had been associated with starting and working on the work--even when they occur several months later.

Although it is not immediately obvious, the true inspiration that occurs during the creation of a work, especially a poem, is actually accompanied by a certain amount of anxiety. The sense of later relief is so dramatic that anxiety is not apparent to the writer or to a possible observer. However, the other hallmark of true inspiration – feverish activity and working on the poem or piece of literature – indicates that anxiety requiring discharge is indeed present.

Basically, I think this anxiety also operates to some degree in non-dramatic experiences of starting the poem; both anxieties are later reduced by the discovery of "what the poem or literary work is really saying." The discovery, in other words, provides true relief because it contains elements of true psychological insight whereas both inspiration and the thoughts associated with the inception of a literary work do not.

This paradigm of the psychodynamics of the poetic creative process de-emphasizes inspiration and differentiates inspiration from psychological insights. The distinction is important because inspiration appears, on the surface, to have many qualities in common with insight. The sine qua non of insight is considered to be a sense of illumination and breakthrough accompanied by relief and some impulse to further psychological exploration as action. Because this experience is behaviorally similar to the classical description of inspiration, it has been assumed that insight and inspiration are psychologically similar or equivalent--the bringing of non-conscious material into consciousness. Insight involves such a process, but inspiration appears to do so, or only does so in part.

The overall schema I am suggesting is as follows: the writer starts by unearthing or formulating problems, problems which are aesthetic and personal together. If the problem is particularly difficult and fraught with anxiety, he or she may experience "inspiration" as he or she is working on it. As the inspiration may come from a deeper level of consciousness, it contains many defensive and anxious aspects and it drives to further writing and an attempt at gaining resolution and insight.

I do not mean to say that the inspiration for a poem or literary piece together with anxiety is a manifestation of illness nor that a literary process is a form of therapy . Writers choose the conflicts they prefer to work on and, more often than not, only touch an aspect of their personal hindrances. They may achieve some insight and finish the work but they seldom allow the full impact of the insight to affect them. This is seen in the fact that writers often return, again and again, to the same theme or image.

Robert Frost, in answer to the perennial question, "why do you write poems?" has been quoted as saying, "To see if I can make them all different". By implication, Frost's whimsical reply is a criticism of the general literary tendency to be hung up on a recurrent theme and points to his own attempts to overcome this tendency. This hang-up, the need to return to the same conflict over and over again, is not an indication that writers are invariably sick: not at all, it simply means that poets and fiction writers, those great expressers and interpreters of our inner and outer world, the purveyors of such joy and understanding, are haunted.

Albert Rothenberg, M.D. , is a Professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School.

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Know and grow your writing inspiration

Do you know what inspires you?

I have long said that writers in touch with the sources of their inspiration are the ones who will keep writing. Writing is all about noticing, but we tend to focus more on the physical or finished product of our efforts than in how we got there (the process) or what started it all (the moment of inspiration).

All elements of the creative process are important. The piece of writing is the  what  of your writing practice. The  where  and  when  are contingent upon your unique schedule, the logistical structure you bring to your practice. Understanding the source(s) of your inspiration is how you cultivate self-awareness for the  why  and  how  of your writing practice.

Here are five common sources of inspiration that fuel writers and artists, and how to grow their influence on your writing life:

Know it:  For so many writers, nature is an endless source of inspiration. Its cycles, its beauty, its awesome power—all speak to the human experience in ways large and small. Nature is in remote places we have to travel far and wide to reach, and it’s right in our backyards. If you find yourself wanting to be outside a lot, or are regularly making art about and in response to the natural world, then clearly it is a big source of your inspiration.

Grow it:  Spend more time in nature with a pen in hand! Create mini field trips for yourself, where you go out and make mental or literal notes about what you see. Come back to your writing space and turn those notes into a piece of writing.

Creation/creating things

Know it:  Many writers do more than write. We garden, paint, craft, play instruments, bake, knit, bead, decoupage, quilt, build furniture, mix essentials oils, make soap, home brew wine and beer, re-purpose thrift store finds, and so much more. Creative types like to work with our hands, keep busy, and make things. If you have more than one hobby or pastime that involves creating a physical object, or are always curious about taking up a new one, then the actual act of creation is what fuels your fire.

Grow it:  Try different forms of writing, like poetic sonnets, braided essays, putting together a small children’s picture book, writing about a work of art (called  ekphrasis ), or using a series of photos or illustrations to write a short story. Experiment and make something new. Journal about your efforts.

Personal experience

Know it:  Write what you know, right? We all draw from our own lives to some degree. Writers often arrive at the page to contend with hardship, redemption, and even trauma–not so much as inspiration but as an impetus for writing. We want to create meaning from an experience that might seem meaningless. We want to make sense of it, or reclaim a narrative that feels stolen from or silenced in us. We want to document our version of events, for processing and healing, but also for crafting and turning into writing that might have universal appeal, might help others. You are not alone if you often write from your own memories, especially if they concern difficult experiences.

Grow it:  Practice self-care as you approach sensitive subject matter. Be kind to yourself. Acknowledge your fear in committing these words to the page and remember that no one will read them except you unless you choose otherwise. If you share the work, ask for the empathy you showed yourself in writing it. Developing empathetic practices for yourself and others can make it easier to do this kind of vital writing.

Know it:  You are always on the go. You travel regularly, and your phone’s camera roll is overflowing with photos of the incredible places you visit. Your social media profile pictures are selfies of you on top of a mountain, then arms up on a roller coaster, then swimming with dolphins, and so on. You love road trips, with or without your GPS. You can’t stand being bored for too long. Adventure is your inspiration if you thrive on the excitement of newness.

Grow it:  Document your adventures. You could journal, or you could write a detailed account of your next trip or outing and turn it into a travel essay. One of the best parts of travel is reliving it when you return to familiarity and routine; do this through the crafting of an essay that captures the place for readers and memorializes it for you.

Other writers/writing

Know it:  That tingling at the base of your neck, or the warm feeling that spreads outward from your chest, that lets you know something has moved and inspired you? It comes when you read a spectacular piece of writing or spend time with other writers who are as passionate as you are. You finish a good book and can’t wait to talk to someone about it, and you use social media primarily to share and learn about the latest authors and publications. You take classes and go on retreats. You are in, or maybe you even started, a writing group at your local library or coffee shop. The written word itself is your biggest inspiration.

Grow it:  Spend time each day cultivating your writing community. Reach out to a writing friend, share a favorite essay in the latest issue of a publication you follow online, and ask for feedback on your own work. Read widely. Choose a piece of writing you adore and try to write something that emulates some aspect of it.

Attune to what inspires you most to write more and better!

Which source of inspiration sounds like your own? What else inspires you, and how do you grow its presence in your life to keep you writing regularly? Share with us in the comments!

Want to receive tips and inspiration like this in your inbox every Sunday morning?  Join our email list community!  You will receive weekly advice, a year’s worth of weekly writing prompts as a FREE download, and be eligible to participate in our  monthly photo prompt contest  for a chance to share an original piece of writing with our community of over 1,100 subscribers!

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How to Get Inspiration for Your Creative Writing Ideas

Table of contents, introduction, the role of creativity and originality in writing, diverse forms of creative writing and their unique demands for inspiration, overcoming writer’s block with inspiration, the connection between inspiration and productivity, common sources of inspiration for writers, brainstorming and mind mapping for creative writing ideas generation, the role of regular writing exercises and prompts, meditation, solitude, and relaxation to stimulate creative writing ideas, using inspiration from others creatively, tips for keeping an idea journal for continuous creativity, the role of discipline and consistency in keeping the creative juices flowing, handling dry spells and periods of low inspiration.

In the realm of creative writing, inspiration is not just a luxury. It’s a necessity. The fuel powers the imagination, transforming creative writing ideas into extraordinary narratives, characters, and worlds.

Without inspiration, the blank page remains just that – blank. Creative writing demands a constant infusion of fresh ideas, often birthed from moments of inspiration.

However, finding this elusive inspiration can significantly challenge many writers. The quest for creativity can sometimes feel like an uphill battle against a relentless foe called writer’s block . This common struggle is characterized by a seeming inability to generate new creative writing ideas or progress with your content.

This article will explore how to awaken and harness your inspiration for creative writing. We’ll delve into the heart of what constitutes creative writing and why inspiration plays such a pivotal role.

We’ll also explore diverse sources of inspiration and practical techniques to stimulate creative writing ideas. Further, we’ll discuss how you can creatively use inspiration drawn from others and tips for maintaining a steady flow of ideas.

Understanding Creative Writing

Creative writing, by definition, is any form of writing that goes outside the bounds of normal professional, journalistic, academic, and technical forms of literature.

Creative writing is characterized by its ability to express feelings, thoughts, and emotions rather than just presenting the facts. Think of it as an art form that brings words to life in a way that’s imaginative, vivid, and engaging.

Creativity and originality are the driving forces behind creative writing ideas. Without these elements, a piece of writing risks sounding stale, repetitive, or unengaging.

Creativity is what allows a writer to construct a unique world out of nothing but words, shaping characters and scenarios that captivate readers.

Conversely, originality brings fresh perspectives and unique angles to your writing. It’s about stepping away from the clichéd and the predictable to deliver something new and exciting.

Creative writing comes in many shapes and sizes, each with its own unique demands for inspiration. Novels, for instance, require extensive plot and character development, demanding a wellspring of ideas and constant reinvention.

Poetry, meanwhile, often calls for intense emotional insight and a keen eye for metaphorical thinking. Short stories can require a rapid-fire burst of creativity, while scripts and screenplays demand a visual mindset and a knack for dialogue.

To be successful, creative writers must learn how to tap into their unique sources of inspiration and harness them effectively across various forms of writing.

Why Finding Inspiration is Crucial for Creative Writing Ideas

In the realm of creative writing, inspiration plays a pivotal role. It is the spark that lights the lamp of creativity, providing illumination for the writer’s path. The quality and originality of your work are often directly proportional to the amount of inspiration you have at your disposal and, subsequently, the creative writing ideas churned.

When your mind is brimming with imaginative ideas, your writing tends to be more vibrant, engaging, and unique.

Imagine painting a masterpiece without colors or composing a symphony without notes. That’s what writing without inspiration feels like. It’s not just about putting words on a page; it’s about imbuing those words with life, with meaning, with your unique perspective on the world.

Without inspiration, your work may lack the depth and nuance that separates great writing.

Writer’s block is a common phenomenon that most writers, if not all, experience at some point. Even Stephen King does (and he recovered with incredible plots ).

Writer’s block can be incredibly frustrating when no matter how hard we try, the words just won’t come. However, inspiration can act as an effective antidote to this condition. A sudden rush of new ideas can shatter the walls of writer’s block and set the imagination and creative writing ideas flowing once again.

Remember, it’s perfectly normal to feel stuck sometimes. Instead of letting frustration creep in, seek out inspiration. It could be in a book, a movie, a conversation, a walk in nature, or even in the depths of your own memories and experiences. Allow these sources to rejuvenate your mind and refill your creative well.

There is a strong connection between inspiration and productivity in writing. When you’re inspired, you’re naturally more motivated to write.

You look forward to sitting at your desk and diving into your creative world. You’re eager to explore your characters, settings, and themes and see where they take you.

When inspiration is lacking, writing can feel like a chore. Creative writing ideas are hard to come by. Every word seems harder to write, every sentence a struggle. But when you’re in the grip of inspiration, words flow more freely. You’re not just writing faster. You’re writing better. Your productivity soars, and so does the quality of your work.

So remember, if you’re ever feeling stuck, uninspired, or unproductive, it may just mean you need to step back and find a fresh source of inspiration. Keep your mind open, explore the world around you, and let the sparks of inspiration ignite your creativity.

Inspiration often strikes when we least expect it. Sometimes, it comes from the most mundane activities or everyday experiences.

A trip to the grocery store, a conversation with a friend, or even a stroll in the park can spark an idea that develops into a compelling story or poem. Steve Jobs, a creative entrepreneur, often strolled when facing dilemmas and searching for creative solutions.

Literature, art, and culture play a significant role in inspiring creative writing ideas. Immersing oneself in a good book, exploring different genres of music, or visiting an art exhibition can open up new perspectives and stimulate creative thinking.

Literature provides insight into various styles of writing and narrative techniques. Art can evoke emotions and provoke thought, providing fertile ground for narratives. Culture’s diverse traditions and stories can offer unique plot ideas and character developments. In fact, you will see plenty of books inspired just by paintings .

Nature and travel also serve as powerful sources of inspiration. The tranquility of a forest, the bustling energy of a city, the grandeur of a mountain range, or the simple beauty of a sunset can stir the imagination.

Traveling exposes writers to different environments, customs, and people, which can inspire new characters, settings, and plots. According to Mark Twain :

“Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness.”

It broadens our horizons, offering fresh insights and perspectives that can significantly enrich our writing.

Inspiration is everywhere; you need to be open to it. Pay attention to the world around you, be curious, and don’t be afraid to venture outside your comfort zone. As writer Jack London once said:

“You can’t wait for inspiration. You have to go after it with a club.”

Practical Techniques to Stimulate Creative Writing Ideas

Having the right tools and techniques at your disposal can make a world of difference when it comes to sparking creativity. Let’s dive into some practical methods to help you generate new and exciting ideas for your creative writing projects.

One of the first steps in the creative process is brainstorming. This involves freely jotting down all thoughts and ideas related to your writing project, no matter how random or unrelated they may seem initially.

Once you have a list of ideas, you can start organizing them into themes or categories using a mind map. A mind map is a visual tool that helps structure information, allowing you to analyze better, comprehend, synthesize, recall and generate new ideas.

By visually mapping out your ideas, you can see connections and relationships between thoughts you might not have noticed.

Regular writing exercises and prompts are another excellent way to stimulate creativity. They force you to write about unfamiliar topics or explore different styles and formats, pushing you out of your comfort zone and encouraging you to think creatively.

Numerous online resources with daily or weekly writing prompts can help keep your creativity flowing. By making this a regular practice, you’ll find that ideas come more easily, and your writing skills improve over time.

In our busy and often stressful lives, finding quiet moments to relax and meditate can be incredibly beneficial for our creative thinking. Meditation can help clear your mind, reduce stress, and enhance your ability to concentrate, leading to improved creativity.

Similarly, spending time alone in solitude can give you the space and freedom to explore your thoughts and ideas without distractions. Whether taking a long walk, sitting quietly in a park, or simply enjoying a cup of coffee in silence, these moments of solitude can provide the mental clarity needed to stimulate creative thinking.

Remember, the key to stimulating creative writing ideas is to keep your mind open, curious and engaged. Try incorporating these practical techniques into your daily routine and see how they can transform your creative writing process.

In the realm of creative writing, we often stand on the shoulders of giants. Recognizing this fact, let’s delve into the importance of reading widely and learning from other writers.

The works of others can serve as a rich source of inspiration, exposing us to different styles, themes, and perspectives that can spark our imagination.

T.S. Eliot once said:

“Immature poets imitate; mature poets steal.”

This doesn’t mean plagiarizing, but rather, understanding and absorbing what you read, then making it your own in your writing.

That brings us to the delicate balance between drawing inspiration from others without crossing into plagiarism. ‘Inspiration’ and ‘imitation’ may seem like two sides of the same coin, but they are vastly different.

Imitation restricts your creativity, whereas inspiration expands it. When another writer inspires you, you interpret a concept, theme, or feeling through your unique lens. You’re not copying their words verbatim but using them as a springboard to explore your own creative writing ideas. Remember, originality lies not in saying something that has never been said before but in saying it as no one else has.

The final aspect we’ll explore is nurturing a network of like-minded people for idea exchange. Joining writing groups, attending workshops, and participating in online forums can be beneficial.

These platforms offer opportunities to share your work, receive constructive feedback, and gather fresh ideas. Interacting with fellow writers can challenge your thinking, broaden your horizons, and spur creativity. As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.

To summarize, garnering inspiration from others is a natural and vital part of generating creative writing ideas. By reading widely, you can expose yourself to various voices and styles. When drawing inspiration from these sources, remember to maintain your originality.

Engaging with a community of writers can also provide a steady stream of fresh ideas and perspectives. So, go ahead and immerse yourself in the world of words, absorb what resonates with you, and let it fuel your creative fires.

Maintaining a Steady Flow of Creative Writing Ideas

Imagine having a river of ideas flowing continuously, ready to be used at any time. Sounds like a writer’s dream, right? Well, it can be your reality with the right habits and strategies. Let’s explore some ways to keep those creative juices flowing.

Maintaining an idea journal is one effective way to ensure a steady stream of creative writing ideas. It’s as simple as it sounds. Get a notebook or use a note-taking app on your phone, and jot down any idea that crosses your mind.

It could be an overheard conversation, a sudden plot twist, a character sketch, or even a dream you had. This habit encourages you to pay more attention to your surroundings, making you more receptive to potential inspiration. Moreover, it ensures you have a well-stocked arsenal of ideas to draw from whenever you face a blank page.

While spontaneous bursts of creativity are great, relying solely on them can lead to inconsistency in your writing. The secret to a constant flow of ideas is discipline. Setting aside regular time for writing, even if you don’t feel particularly inspired, trains your brain to think creatively on demand.

Remember, creativity is like a muscle—the more you use it, the stronger it gets. So, keep up with your writing routine, whether it involves daily blog posts, short stories every week, or a few lines of poetry every day.

Even prolific writers experience dry spells when creative writing ideas seem elusive and motivation runs low. It’s essential to understand that these phases are not permanent and are often part of the creative process.

Allow yourself to step back and recharge during such times instead of forcing ideas. Engage in activities that relax you—read a book, listen to music, or meditate. Often, taking a break can give you a fresh perspective and reignite your creativity. And remember, your idea journal is always there to offer a lifeline when needed.

In this comprehensive exploration of finding inspiration for creative writing ideas, we’ve traversed a vast landscape of ideas, techniques, and resources.

We’ve highlighted the importance of creativity in writing, delved into the various forms of creative writing, and unpacked the crucial role of inspiration in enhancing the quality of our work. Additionally, we’ve identified everyday experiences, literature, art, culture, nature, and travel as rich sources of inspiration.

We’ve also shared some practical techniques to stimulate creative writing ideas, such as brainstorming, mind mapping, regular writing exercises, meditation, solitude, and relaxation. Furthermore, we emphasized the benefits of drawing inspiration from other writers, nurturing a supportive network, and maintaining a steady flow of ideas through discipline and consistency.

Now that we’ve armed you with these tools and strategies, it’s your turn to put them into practice. Experiment with different techniques, explore various sources of inspiration and identify what works best for you. Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to big, creative writing ideas. What’s important is to keep an open mind, remain curious, and never stop learning.

But let’s not end our conversation here. We’d love for you to join the discussion and share your unique methods of finding inspiration for creative writing.

Do you have a favorite writing exercise or a go-to source of inspiration?

Maybe you’ve discovered a novel way to overcome writer’s block or a particular ritual that helps you maintain a steady flow of ideas.

Whatever it may be, we’re eager to hear about your experiences and learn from your insights.

So, don’t hesitate. Let’s continue this exploration together, fostering a vibrant community of writers who support, inspire, and learn from each other. Your ideas might be the spark that lights up someone else’s creative path, and encourage more creative writing ideas to flow.

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How to Get Inspired to Write in 2024: 48 Creative Ways

• Updated: 03/04/24
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Are you looking for a creative boost and some writing inspiration? You’re not alone!

We’ve all had moments where our creativity is at an all-time low, no matter how much we love to write.

But fear not—there are plenty of ways to get those creative juices flowing so that you can get back on track with your writing projects.

Whether you’re trying to write the next big blog post or trying to start a career in freelance writing , every creative writer has this problem at some point in time.

It’s a totally normal, unavoidable, and solvable problem!

Sometimes all you need is a quick, creative exercise to get your brain back on track. Sometimes it requires a big change up to your routine.

Either way, all successful writers have been where you are right now, so rest assured that you will get through this. We’ve got some tips on how to eliminate writer’s block, improve your writing process, and 49 strategies on how to inspire yourself to become a better writer.

Eliminate Your Writing Blockers

The first step to unlocking your writing inspiration is to eliminate the existing blockers in your daily life.

Identify Your Distractions

Before you can start eliminating your distractions, make sure to take the time to identify all of them. Common writing distractions include:

• social media
• multitasking
• household chores
• kids or family members
• and even some of your own thoughts

After you identify common distractions that get in the way of your creative process, you can start to develop strategies to help you stay focused.

Before we get into those specific strategies, let’s talk about how to start building an environment that eliminates distractions.

Build an Environment More Conducive to Writing

Creating a conducive environment to write is essential. Make sure you have everything at your fingertips that you need, such as pens and paper, snacks, water, and anything else that might help you focus and stay in the zone.

Where You Write

The first thing about your environment to consider is your physical surroundings. If you’re easily distracted, it might be better to choose a quiet place with limited disruption.

For some, this may be at home where they feel comfortable. For others, it may be at a coffee shop or library where the distractions of home are eliminated.

What Do You Need to Get in the Zone?

Think about what you need to get in the zone and stay productive. Maybe it’s a good cup of coffee, a change of scenery, or some background noise.

For many people, myself included, a good playlist can help here. Instrumental music, like Explosions in the Sky, can be helpful.

Spotify also has many ‘Focus’ playlists that you can try.

Whatever it is that helps you focus when you write, make sure you have access to those things before you start working.

Writing Tools

Now let’s talk about the writing tools you can use for finding inspiration or just to keep moving forward.

I’m sure you already have your notebook or laptop, pen and paper, and your phone.

Have you tried AI tools for writing?

Using AI is a game-changer in the writing world, as I’m sure you know unless you’ve been living under a rock.

But maybe you haven’t tried it yet because you think there is no substitute for “real writing.”

I agree with you, my friend. That’s why it’s important to think of AI as a writing assistant.

While it can write everything for you, it shouldn’t.

But it can be very helpful to give you prompts and ideas to keep you moving forward. It serves as a great baseline when you write.

Our favorite AI writing tool that we use in our business is Jasper AI.

Whatever tool you decide is best for your creative process, make sure it’s always accessible and ready to go when inspiration strikes.

Improve Your Writing Process

Now that you have the tools and environment, it’s time to focus on improving your writing process.

Set Writing Goals

Setting realistic goals for writing can help keep you motivated and focused on your writing project. This could be anything from dedicating just 10 minutes of each day to write to finding a specific word count goal for yourself.

Whatever it is, make sure that it’s achievable so that you are always feeling successful.

Start Small

If the idea of setting a strict daily writing routine feels overwhelming, start by setting mini-goals for yourself instead.

This can be as simple as brainstorming for 5 minutes at the start of each day to get your creative juices flowing before you write for at least 30 minutes.

Whatever works best for you, start small and work your way up!

Set a Schedule

Having a structured plan can help you stay focused and motivated during your writing sessions.

Set a consistent schedule and make sure to stick to it.

This doesn’t have to be the same every day, but having this structure can help keep you on track.

If you’re more of a Type B person and prefer the motto of “whenever, wherever,” this may not work for you, but it’s still worth a try!

Reward Yourself

One of my favorite tips for getting inspired is to reward yourself with something special when you reach one of your writing goals.

Maybe it’s a cupcake after meeting your daily word count, or even a weekend getaway to celebrate completing your project.

No matter what it is, make sure you reward yourself for doing the hard work!

Use Writing Prompts

Writing prompts are great for finding inspiration and helping you to continue writing.

A writing prompt could be as simple as writing a one-sentence story, or more complex, such as outlining a whole novel in five minutes.

There are many websites with writing prompts that you can use to beat writer’s block or you can use an AI tool like Jasper .

Writing Inspiration: 48 Effective Strategies for Success

These 50 strategies will help you get unstuck and inspired when you write!

1. Change Up Your Routine

If you’re feeling stuck in a rut with your writing process, perhaps one of the best things that you can try is changing up your routine to see if it helps spark some inspiration.

This could mean writing during different times of the day, finding a new place to work, or trying out a different writing tool.

Sometimes it can even be as simple as switching up your workouts or eating something different for breakfast.

You’d be surprised at how “stuck” you can get when you live life on repeat every day. The worst part is, we often fall into this trap without realizing it.

2. Go for a Walk

Sometimes just stepping away from your desk can help you get inspired and give you some clarity on the task at hand.

Go for a walk around your neighborhood or take a break in the park nearby. This will help you clear your head and come back to your write more after feeling refreshed and motivated.

The fresh air will do you wonders and the light exercise will get your blood flowing.

3. Read a Book

Reading books can be great for finding new inspiration. Not only does it help you learn from other authors’ writing styles, but it also helps to give you ideas for your own work.

Reading can help spark ideas and give you some perspective on how other authors have tackled similar topics.

Find a book about the topic that you are writing about or just pick something completely random that catches your eye.

Sometimes reading something unrelated can spark new ideas in ways you never imagined.

3. Listen to Podcasts

Listening to podcasts can be great for finding inspiration and fresh ideas.

Podcasts are a great way to learn from other authors, hear about their stories and what drives them. This will help give you insight and inspiration for your own work.

Plus, it’s an easy way to learn while multitasking. You can listen to a podcast while you’re on the go or even when you’re working on something else.

So, next time you’re feeling stuck, try listening to a podcast and see what inspiration it brings!

4. Do Some Free Writing

If you find yourself uninspired and lacking in ideas, try free writing.

Free writing is a simple exercise where you just start writing without stopping until your timer goes off.

It’s an excellent way to unleash the ideas that have been stuck in your head for far too long.

Rather than editing or filtering what you write, allow yourself to get creative and see what comes out.

You may be surprised at the ideas that come up!

5. Meditate

Meditation is an excellent way to find focus and clarity, which can help you find inspiration and stay motivated when you write.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed and uninspired, take some time to meditate and clear your head.

The practice of meditation helps to reduce stress and anxiety, as well as bring clarity to your ideas.

Meditation isn’t for everyone but anyone can try at least 5 minutes every day. Use an app like Headspace to get started.

If it turns out it’s not for you, that’s okay too!

6. Take a Break from Technology

Although technology can be extremely useful when you write, it can also be a major distraction.

Take some time away from your computer and phone to help clear your head and get a new perspective on life.

Try going on a nature walk or doing something physical like yoga or dancing.

This will help you connect with yourself and get in touch with your inner creative self.

This can improve your ability to write as well as your overall mental health!

7. Exercise

If meditation isn’t your thing, maybe moving is!

Exercise has been proven to reduce stress, boost endorphins and help get your creative juices flowing.

Going for a run or doing some yoga can be great for helping you stay motivated and inspired.

Taking care of your physical health is never a bad idea!

8. Tell Your Friend About Your Project

Talking to a friend about what you’re writing about may also help you find some writing inspiration.

Talking about what you’re writing about can give you a different perspective when you hear yourself talking about it.

You can also get feedback and ideas from your friend as well as another perspective.

Complaining about writer’s block or a lack of inspiration may lead your friend to solutionize.

But simply telling them about your writing subject may spark some real inspiration that can help you.

9. Exercise Your Brain

Playing puzzles and games like crosswords or Sudoku is a great way to challenge yourself and stimulate your brain into creative thinking.

Doing puzzles helps keep your brain active and sharp, which can lead to more creative thinking.

It’s also a fun way to pass the time when you are feeling stuck or uninspired.

You can get a puzzle book online or just download an app on your phone.

10. Try Something New

It’s easy to get stuck in an artistic rut, so why not try something new?

Get out of your comfort zone and explore activities that you’ve never done before.

Not only will this give you something exciting to write about but it might also help you find new sources of inspiration.

Try a new hobby or take up a class in something that you find interesting.

This could range from taking an improv class to learning how to play the guitar.

No matter what it is, trying something new can be great for pushing yourself creatively and finding some inspiration when you write.

11. Take a Vacation

Sometimes we just need a break! Taking some time off work or school can give us the motivation we need to take on new projects with enthusiasm.

It can also just give us a fresh perspective.

Traveling can be inspiring in its own right and you’ll come back feeling recharged and energized.

Take some time to explore a new city, learn about a different culture, or just relax on the beach with a good book.

Whatever you choose to do, taking a break from your everyday routine can be a great way to get some fresh air and great ideas.

12. Listen to Music

Music has a knack for inspiring creativity and getting your ideas flowing. Put on some of your favorite tunes and let them take you away as you work.

Listening to music can help you access your emotions and connect with what you’re writing.

It can also get you in the mood to write.

So, put on something that inspires you and let the music take you away!

13. Learn About Literary Devices

Reading and learning about different literary devices can be a great way to get inspired for your own writing.

Writers use different literary devices like irony , imagery , alliteration , diction , euphemisms , colloquialisms , and more to make their writing more vivid and engaging.

Reading up on these devices can help you find new ways to communicate your message in your own words.

This can be an excellent way to beat writer’s block.

14. Join a Writing Group or Community

Sometimes we just need a little support to help us get through our projects.

Joining an online writing community or a writing group can help you share your writing experience and even help another aspiring writer in the process.

It’s also a great way to connect with creative people who share similar interests as you. You can get valuable advice, feedback, and tips from other writers that can help you on your journey.

15. Visit Museums or Art Galleries

Museums and art galleries are great places for discovering new ideas to change the way that you write.

Take some time to explore these spaces and pay attention to the artwork, objects, or artifacts that you find interesting.

Seeing artwork from different periods of time can help spark your imagination in unexpected ways.

Visiting these kinds of places will also give you a chance to get away from your desk and view the world from a different angle.

16. Give Yourself Time

Sometimes it takes a while for our writing ideas to take shape and become something tangible.

Don’t be too hard on yourself if things don’t come together right away or when your writing style just isn’t working.

Give yourself time to come up with interesting ideas and let those ideas simmer until they become something solid.

The more you trust your process, the easier it will be for inspiration to flow!

17. Write in a Journal

Have you ever considered writing down your thoughts and feelings in a writing journal?

Whenever you get stuck or need inspiration, take some time to jot down your thoughts and ideas.

It’s amazing how much great material can come out of just writing down random thoughts and musings.

Even if these words don’t make it into your writing, they can still help you find inspiration and stay motivated.

18. Talk to Someone You Admire

Talking to someone who inspires you is a great way to get motivated and learn from them.

Whether it’s a writer, artist, or someone in your field of work, take the time to learn from their experiences.

It’s amazing how much creative energy you can get from just talking to someone who has achieved something that inspires you.

Use this new inspiration next time you’re facing a blank page.

19. Blog About It

Many fellow writers are also bloggers. Have you ever considered starting a blog?

Starting a blog can be great for practicing your writing and pushing yourself to come up with new ideas.

It’s also a great way to connect with people who share similar interests as you.

You can even use blogging platforms like WordPress to connect with other writers and collaborate on projects.

You can start writing a blog post about any topics that you’re passionate about or about your own life and writing journey.

It’s a great way to practice your creative writing in a new way.

19. Brainstorm Ideas with Friends

Having a friend around to brainstorm ideas can be incredibly helpful.

Sometimes discussing your writing with someone else can help spark new thoughts and perspectives that you may not have considered on your own.

Talking with others about their experiences and interests can also open up new avenues of inspiration for your work.

It’s always good to have an extra set of ears when you need feedback or advice.

20. Get a Massage

Another creative idea that may sound strange is to get a massage to relieve stress and inspire creativity.

Sometimes all we need is to take a break and relax before we can get push through our writer’s block.

Go ahead and book that massage appointment – your mind (and body) will thank you!

20. Brainstorm Ideas with AI

If you don’t have any friends or family to brainstorm new ideas with, why not try a creative AI?

AIs are becoming more and more advanced every day and can be great for getting quick feedback on your writing.

You can ask questions, run experiments, or just get some advice for finishing up a project.

Using AI to help you stay inspired and motivated may be just the thing you need to get your creative juices flowing.

Jasper and ChatGPT are popular options.

23. Take Notes Everywhere You Go

Inspiration can come from anywhere, so be sure to have a pen and paper or your phone handy at all times.

Keep notes of conversations you overhear, interesting sights you see, or ideas that pop up out of the blue.

You never know when something might inspire you!

24. Rewrite a Classic Story

If you’re feeling stuck or in need of inspiration, why not try rewriting a classic story with a modern twist?

This can be an excellent exercise for honing your craft and developing new skills.

Also, it’s always fun to see how different authors interpret the same stories in their own unique ways.

Give it a try and see what kind of amazing stories you can come up with!

25. Spend Time Outdoors

Spending time outdoors is an excellent way to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and find inspiration in the natural world.

Take a hike, go camping, or just take a leisurely stroll through your local park.

Observe the sights, sounds, and smells around you – these things can be incredibly inspiring and help bring your writing to life.

26. Watch Some TV

Watching movies and TV shows can be a great source of inspiration, but only if you do it consciously – not mindlessly.

Pay attention to the character arcs, storylines, and plot twists – these things can help spark ideas for your own writing.

It’s also a great way to get an idea of how different stories are structured and crafted.

Watching TV can be a great way to find inspiration for your writing.

27. Practice Some Self-Love

We all need to take a break and show ourselves some love from time to time.

Whether it’s taking a long bath, curling up with a good book, or just taking some time for yourself – do something that brings you joy and makes you feel good.

Self-care is essential for staying inspired and motivated in our writing.

So make sure to take the time to give yourself some love!

You never know what amazing things may come out of it.

28. Record Your Dreams

If you’re looking for a truly unique source of inspiration, why not try recording your dreams?

Keep a dream journal, or just a notebook by your bed, to jot down anything that comes to mind when you wake up in the morning.

These dreams may seem strange or nonsensical, but sometimes they can be incredibly inspiring and help you create something truly unique.

Try it out and see what kind of creative juices it stirs up!

29. Take a Social Media Break

Sometimes the best thing we can do for our creativity is to take some time away from social media.

It can be overwhelming to constantly be bombarded with content, so give yourself a break and log off for a while.

Taking some time away can help you find your focus again and find inspiration to write something amazing.

30. Follow Your Curiosity

It’s important to trust your curiosity and follow it wherever it takes you.

Sometimes our minds pick up on things that we’re not even aware of – so follow your curiosity and see what it reveals.

You never know what interesting ideas and inspiration you might find when you let yourself explore.

31. Make a Vision Board

Vision boards can be a great way to stay inspired to write.

Collect images, quotes , or ideas that represent what you want to achieve with your writing.

Having these visual reminders around can help you keep focused on reaching your goals and achieving success.

32. Stop Editing While You Write

Editing as you go can be a huge roadblock for your creativity.

It’s important to give yourself the freedom to experiment and explore without worrying about getting everything right on the first try.

Once you have a complete draft, then you can start editing – but until then, just let your ideas flow freely.

33. Hang Out With Kids

Spending some time with kids is another creative idea to get in touch with your inner child and find inspiration.

Kids are creative, curious, and fearless when it comes to exploring their imaginations – something we all need to tap into from time to time.

So go ahead and hang out with some kids – you just might find the perfect source of inspiration!

34. Let Your Mind Wander

If you’re stuck on an idea, try letting your mind wander.

Close your eyes and imagine yourself in a different place or time – wherever you feel the most creative and inspired.

Allow yourself to explore whatever comes to mind without judgment. This can help you push past your writer’s block and find inspiration to write.

35. Take a Writing Class

Taking a writing class is an excellent way to learn new skills and find inspiration.

Whether you’re just starting out or already have some experience, there’s always something new to learn: techniques, tricks, and fresh perspectives that can help take your writing to the next level.

So don’t be afraid to challenge yourself and step out of your comfort zone – it can lead to some amazing new discoveries.

Try Skillshare or Udemy for some great writing classes.

35. Read Aloud

Reading aloud is an excellent way to really connect with the words and find writing inspiration.

It’s also a great tool for finding errors in your writing or making sure that everything reads clearly and flows smoothly.

So grab a book, find a comfortable spot, and start reading – you never know what kind of inspirational ideas may come out of it!

36. Take a Trip Down Memory Lane

Memories can be a great source of inspiration for your writing.

Take some time to reflect on past experiences, happy moments, adventures – anything that stands out as an interesting story.

Think about how you felt, what you saw, and how it shaped your life.

Reconnecting with these memories can help writer’s block and lead to some truly amazing stories.

37. Write About What You Love

Inspiration comes easily when you write about the things that you’re passionate about.

Find something that excites and energizes you, and use it as a topic for your writing.

This can help keep your enthusiasm alive and bring more creativity to your work.

Focus on what matters most to you. This is often the best source of inspiration.

38. Organize and Declutter

A cluttered workspace can be a major obstacle to creativity.

Sometimes, it’s best to take a step back and organize your space. This can help clear your mind and give you the breathing room you need to get creative.

Set aside some time for decluttering and organizing, and then just see what kind of inspiration comes out of it.

Either way, it won’t be a waste of time and you’ll feel better afterwards.

39. Put Yourself In Someone Else’s Shoes

Another great way to find inspiration is to put yourself in someone else’s shoes and tell their story.

This can be an exercise in empathy and understanding, but it can also provide plenty of ideas for when you start writing.

Add something unique by imagining how the other person would think and feel in different situations.

You may be surprised at what kind of stories you come up with!

40. Go on a Date or Reconnect with a Partner

A romantic evening out can do wonders for your creativity.

Go on a date with yourself or reconnect with a partner – it might just be the inspiration you need to find writing inspiration.

Take some time to talk about something meaningful, share stories, and appreciate each other’s company.

The positivity that comes from these moments can help bring your writing to life.

You never know what kind of inspiration or ideas may come out of it.

41. Talk to Strangers

Sometimes, strangers can be the most inspiring people you meet.

So why not start a conversation with someone you don’t know and see where it takes you?

You never know what kind of ideas or stories may come out of it.

These conversations can offer a fresh perspective on life and be incredibly motivating for your writing projects.

Talk to someone at the local coffee shop or in the park.

You never know when someone else could use the pick-me-up, so you can feel better about it and maybe make a new friend.

42. Get Out of Your Comfort Zone

Sometimes, the best ideas come when you least expect them.

So don’t be afraid to push yourself and step outside of your comfort zone.

Explore new places, experiment with different writing styles, or challenge yourself in other ways – these experiences can open your eyes to some amazing possibilities!

The key is to keep an open mind and be willing to take risks.

43. Make a Deal With Yourself

Sometimes, it can be hard to stay motivated and find the inspiration to write.

So make a deal with yourself. Set a goal for what you want to achieve and then reward yourself when you reach it.

This way, you’ll have something to look forward to and be more likely to stick with your writing goals.

You can also set mini-goals along the way so that you can break up your projects and make them more manageable.

These rewards don’t have to be anything big – just something that makes you feel good when you hit your mark!

44. Play With a Pet

Spending time with animals is a great way to lift your spirits and get inspired.

Pets are often the perfect source of comfort when you’re feeling down, so take some time to give them some love.

Simply playing with or petting an animal can be incredibly calming and therapeutic – it’s also been known to spark creativity in some people.

So if you’re feeling stuck, try taking a break and cuddling up with your pet.

45. Manifest What You Want

When it comes to writing, sometimes the best way to make something happen is simply to believe in yourself and manifest your desired outcome.

Visualize what you want to achieve with your writing and then take steps towards making it a reality.

Believe that anything is possible and you’ll be surprised at how far your creativity can take you.

So manifest your dreams and make them come true!

46. Beat Imposter Syndrome

Imposter Syndrome can be a major obstacle when it comes to great writing, but rest assured that even the most creative people suffer from this.

It’s easy to doubt yourself and feel like you don’t have what it takes, but overcoming this feeling is essential for growth.

Remind yourself that everyone has different strengths and weaknesses and that you have something valuable to offer.

If you don’t believe in yourself, how can you expect anyone else to?

Focus on your strengths and don’t be afraid to take risks and try new things. This will help boost your confidence and open the door for creativity.

47. Appreciate How Much You’ve Already Written

It’s easy to get caught up in the pressure of writing more and more, but it’s important to take a step back and appreciate how much you’ve already accomplished.

Recognize your successes and be proud of what you’ve achieved. It may just be the spark that motivates you to write something new.

This will help build your confidence and give you the motivation to keep going, even when writer’s block strikes.

Remember, even small accomplishments count!

48. Take Up Writing Challenges

Writing challenges can be a great way to find writing inspiration and push yourself in different ways.

Set yourself writing challenges like trying a new style of writing or writing something every day for a week.

Whether it’s writing five short stories in a month or creating a piece of flash fiction every day for a week, these challenges will challenge you in a good way.

These challenges can help you become more comfortable with your ideas and give you an opportunity to explore new topics.

49. Seek Inspiration from Others

One of the best ways to stay motivated and inspired is to seek out advice from interesting people.

Look for blogs, books, or podcasts that focus on great writing, and take time to soak up all the advice and wisdom these experts offer.

You may even find a supportive community of writers who can help you through tough times and inspire you when you feel stuck.

Surrounding yourself with the right people can be a great source of support and an incredible boost for your creativity.

FAQs About Writing Inspiration

The best way to get writing inspiration is to take some time to yourself and relax. Going for a walk, listening to music, or taking a few deep breaths can help you clear your mind and settle into the creative space needed for inspiration. You can also read other works that inspire you and find ideas based on what you’ve read. Writing prompts are also a great way to find writing inspiration. Even having conversations with friends and family can get the ideas flowing. Whatever works for you, just be sure to take the time and think about what you want to write.

The truth is, it can be different for everyone. Some writers get inspiration from people around them; others draw on their own experiences. Reading books and magazines, playing music, going to the cinema or theatre, looking at artwork – these are all great sources of creative inspiration too. Ultimately though, it’s up to each individual writer to find what works for them and use it to become a better writer.

It’s a complicated question, but many writers do love to write. Writers often search for different sources of inspiration to get their creativity flowing. Whether it’s a walk in nature or a book full of prompts, there are plenty of ways to find writing inspiration. A great place to start is with brainstorming lists – simply write down whatever comes to mind and see where the ideas lead you. Even struggling to come up with ideas can lead to great places. Don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun – great writing should never feel like a chore.

The three main reasons why writers write are to entertain, inform, and persuade their readers. Whether it’s a novel, an article, or a blog post – inspiration comes from within us. To really get your creative juices flowing and come up with something unique, try taking a walk outside in nature or looking through books for inspiration. You can also listen to music that gets your blood pumping and your mind focused on the task. Lastly, talking to friends and family can also help inspire you with new perspectives or ideas.

Key Takeaways to Get Inspiration for Writing

As you can see, there are so many ways to get inspired when you’re experiencing writer’s block.

Taking some time off of work and making space for yourself can often make all the difference in finding writing inspiration.

From reading books and listening to music to putting words in a writing journal, there are plenty of ways to get inspired and motivated.

Here are some final tips on how to get inspired:

• Change up your routine.
• Go for a walk or get some exercise.
• Eliminate as many distractions as you can.
• Create an environment that is conducive to writing.
• Set goals if it helps you.
• Consider a break from your laptop, technology, or social media if it helps.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you. This journey and the challenges that you face will help you become a better writer in the end!

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How to Find Inspiration For Writing (6 Powerful Ways)

Writing is a unique form of self-expression that allows us to share our thoughts, ideas, and innermost feelings with the world.

However, finding inspiration for writing can be challenging, especially when you’re stuck in a creative quagmire. There’s nothing to be ashamed of, as even experienced professional paper writers face a lack of inspiration. In this article, we’ll explore some tips and strategies for finding inspiration for writing, whether you’re working on a creative project, academic assignment, or professional document.

Best Tips on How to Find Inspiration For Writing:

1. read, read, read.

One of the best ways to find inspiration for writing is to read widely and uncover a rare literary gem that’ll reinvigorate your passion for stories and language. Reading can expose you to different writing styles, genres, and perspectives and spark new ideas and insights. Whether you immerse yourself in books, articles, blogs, or social media posts, pay attention to the writer’s language, tone, and structure, and think about how you can borrow these elements and apply them in your writing.

2. Explore new experiences

Another way to find inspiration for writing is to seek new experiences and adventures. This might mean traveling to a new place, trying a new hobby, going to a concert, watching a new movie, or meeting new people. Exposing yourself to novelty can provide fresh perspectives and insights to draw upon in your writing.

3. Keep a journal

Journaling can be a powerful way to spark inspiration for writing. By jotting down your thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a fine journal , you can create a rich source of material to draw upon when you need inspiration. Journaling can help you process your emotions, clarify your thoughts, and identify patterns and themes that you can explore further in your writing. You can also use a digital journaling app to capture creative thoughts as they strike you.

4. Practice freewriting

This technique is basically about blindfolding your inner critic and expressing your ideas and thoughts on paper or digitally for a limited period. You just write without worrying about grammar, punctuation, or structure. This can be useful for generating ideas and getting your creative juices flowing. Set a timer for 20 minutes and write whatever comes to mind without stopping or editing yourself. Afterward, review what you’ve written and see if there are any ideas or themes that you can develop further.

5. Collaborate with others

Collaborating with other writers or creatives is a fantastic way to find inspiration and generate new ideas, even if you’re completely introverted. Join a writing group, attend a workshop or conference, or simply find a writing partner with whom you can schedule a weekly writing session in a local cafe. By bouncing ideas around in an informal way and getting feedback on your work, you can gain new perspectives and insights that can help you break through writer’s block.

6. Take a break

Finally, sometimes the best way to find inspiration for writing is to take a break and step away from your work for a longer while. Engage in other activities you enjoy, such as exercise, meditation, walking in nature, or spending time with friends and family. This can help you clear your mind and recharge your creative batteries, so you can return to your writing with renewed energy and inspiration.

How to find inspiration for writing right now?

Here are some quick tips for finding inspiration for writing when you’re stuck and need inspiration quickly:

Change your environment

If you’re feeling uninspired, try changing your physical environment. Go for a walk outside, work from a different room, or go to a coffee shop, as there’s nothing that will get you going as an aromatic caffè americano. Changing your scenery and the overall vibe can help to refresh your mind and spark new ideas.

Use writing prompts

Prompts are short phrases or questions that can kick-start your writing. Many online resources offer writing prompts, or you can create your own. Set a timer and express everything you’ve got on your mind, using the prompt as your starting point.

If you’re not sure what to write about, try various brainstorming techniques. Write any ideas that come to mind, even if they seem silly or unimportant. By generating a list of ideas, you may find a topic that inspires you.

Write about a personal experience

Sometimes, the best writing comes from personal experience. Think about a moment in your life that was meaningful or impactful and write about it. This can help to tap into your emotions and create a more authentic and engaging piece of writing.

As mentioned in the previous part of this guide, freewriting can be a great way to generate ideas and get your creative juices flowing. Set a timer for 10-15 minutes and write whatever comes to mind without worrying about structure or grammar.

Read something inspiring

Reading can be a great source of inspiration. Choose an inspiring book, article, or poem and read it for a few minutes. This can help to get your creative juices flowing and give you ideas for your writing. You can also find some ideas on Pinterest, searching for a required topic.

Listen to inspiring music

Music is a great source of inspiration for every professional writer. Choose a song that you find uplifting and listen for a few minutes. This can help to put you in a positive and creative mindset.

How do professional writers deal with a lack of inspiration?

Create a writing routine.

Professional writers often establish a writing routine to help them stay on track, even when they don’t feel inspired. They may set specific writing goals for each day or week and habitually write at a certain time or in a specific location.

Write through it

Many professional writers believe the only way to overcome a lack of inspiration is to keep writing. They may write anything that comes to mind, even unrelated to their current project. The act of writing can help to spark new ideas and get the creative juices flowing.

Keep a notebook or journal

Professional writers may always keep a notebook or journal with them, so they can jot down ideas as they come to mind. They may also use the notebook to record observations, quotes, or anything else that inspires them.

We hope our tips will help you find inspiration even in the most tiring and dull situations. However, remember that it takes practice to develop writing skills. So don’t give up and do your best to maintain a daily writing habit .

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99 Creative Writing Prompts For Overcoming Writer’s Block

I want to start writing fiction this year. It’s a goal I’ve had on my mind for a while now, but as an essayist and nonfiction writer, I’ve been getting in my head about it. I have no idea how to create stories or characters. But it’s something I want to learn.

In preparing to make this pivot, I’ve discovered that writing prompts are invaluable. They can help us think about stories and subject matter in new ways and serve as a source of inspiration. Even for writers who aren’t looking to explore a new genre, prompts can be useful when we’re in a rut or need some creative magic. Instructions and parameters can help get the words flowing.

While these writing prompts are organized by month, they are designed to be used at your leisure. Feel free to follow it weekly or jump around. You may need to take breaks throughout the year or come back in the summer when you have more time to write—that’s okay, too! Use this list however it works for you and your creative flow!

For further inspiration and encouragement, here are some tips for starting a writing practice .

1. The human spirit is strong. Write about an experience in your life that has made you more resilient .

2. Releasing resolutions can be as important as reaching them. Write an essay in which you reflect on a resolution you didn’t keep.

3. Martin Luther King Jr. said , “I am not interested in power for power’s sake, but I’m interested in power that is moral, that is right and that is good.” Write a story in which your main character uses their power for good. End it with a time jump showing the long-term ripple effects. 

4. Craft a story where your main character gets caught outside in a winter storm. How do they find their way home?

5. The darker months can sometimes feel lonely, but moments alone often shape us in powerful ways. Write a lyrical essay about your own isolation experiences and what you’ve discovered about yourself through these seasons.

6. Write a story about a group of friends who travel somewhere warm for a winter holiday.

7. Imagine a group of strangers meeting while trapped in an airport for 24 hours due to flight delays. Who are they? What types of conversations do they have? How will these new relationships evolve and shape the rest of their lives?

8. Begin a short story in which your main character accepts an important award.

9. What does it mean to say, ‘I love you?’ Write an essay that includes an anecdote about the first time you remember feeling loved.

10. Write a comedic story from the perspective of a restaurant server on Valentine’s Day.

11. Who was your childhood best friend? Write an essay using the second-person (try crafting it as a letter ) about what that friendship meant to you. 

12. Think about a favorite story or fairytale from your childhood. Rewrite it with an alternative ending.

13. Begin a short story in which your main character is at a coffee shop with their love interest on a winter day.

14. Write about a time you did something that scared you.

15. Imagine a world in which the days are getting progressively shorter. How will your characters stop this countdown and save humanity before it’s too late?

16. Create a story in which two friends meet at a Lunar New Year celebration.

17. Write a scene based on a recent encounter with a stranger. 

18. For International Women’s Day (March 8), write a first-person story that takes place at a protest during the women’s liberation movement .

19. In an essay, reflect on the women who’ve helped you become who you are today.

20. Craft a poem from the sun’s perspective in honor of the spring equinox (March 20). 

21. In spring, there is a turning. Write an essay about how seasonal changes mirror a transformation in your own life.

22. Try your hand at an allegory using natural elements to convey a larger message about humanity.

23. Your main character just came home from a trip to find their house has disappeared and been replaced with a supermarket. It’s like it was never even there. What happens next?

24. Consider the meaning of beauty and how it has shifted and evolved with time. Write an essay about this.

25. Write a poem about the power of music. Use these playlists for inspiration. 

26. Create a short story that begins with you waking up on a train destined for somewhere tropical.

27. For Earth Day 🌎 (April 22), write an essay about sustainable living . What does it mean to you? If you need help getting started, try opening the piece with an anecdote about the first time you thought about climate change and sustainability. 

28. In the circle of life, beginnings are preceded by endings. Write about an ending that has led to a new beginning in your life. 

29. Begin a story in which your main character wakes up with a superpower.

30. What was the last great novel you read? Try your hand at a book review, writing as if you’re a famous critic for a publishing house or magazine.

31. Imagine a famous chef loses their sense of taste and serves an overly salted meal to eager patrons. What happens next?

32. Write an essay about your childhood home.

33. Write a third-person story about two friends playing in the rain. Rather than focusing on creating climax, aim to capture their feelings of pure love and friendship. 

34. What is something you’ve always been scared of? Write a future-tense essay about when and how you will overcome this fear. 

35. Toni Morrison once wrote , “Definitions belong to the definers, not the defined.” Write an essay defining yourself, starting with the sentence, “To others, I may seem…but that is not who I am.”

36. Write a poem about your first pet. If you’ve never had a pet, write about your plants or something else you’ve cared for.

37. Write an essay about the day you got your driver’s license.

38. Creativity can be a tool for processing our heartaches. Craft a personal essay about the last time you felt grief—and be gentle with yourself as you get the words on the page.

39. Your main character is on a rooftop in New York City, escaping the crowd of a party. What happens next?

40. Write a summer scene that begins with dialogue. 

41. In a personal essay, describe your last vacation, but write about the trip in present tense . 

42. Write a short story from an inanimate object’s perspective, either in nature or in your home.

43. The main characters in your story have gone on a camping trip. But when they return from the woods, their city is no longer there. In fact, they can’t find any sign of civilization. Write a suspenseful thriller about what happens next. 

44. Craft a poem using the word “citrus.” 

45. A couple is sharing a picnic lunch on a beach. By the end of the story, one of them is walking away in tears. What happens? Focus on building tension and the backstory that leads to this moment.

46. Write an essay about a time you worked tirelessly for something, and it didn’t turn out as you hoped or planned.

47. Create a story in which your main character is experiencing profound joy.

48. In a personal essay, revisit a moment when you learned to take your own advice .

49. Using this list of instrumental covers , rewrite the lyrics to a hit song. 

50. Write a story in which you’re a tourist and visiting your home city for the first time.

51. Two friends take out a boat on the lake and discover the water has magic powers. Write a fantasy scene about their adventure.

52. Learn about your Enneagram number , then write a personal essay with anecdotes that exemplify your basic desire and basic fear.

53. You and your best friend are on a sailboat off the coast of Italy when suddenly the captain disappears. What happens next?

54. Write a story about an encounter with a sea creature.

55. Create a lyrical essay in which the main character is “summer heat.”

56. Write an essay through the lens of your childhood self about your first year at school. Try to be as specific as possible, including the names of friends and teachers. You can use old photos or talk to your parents for reference if needed. 

57. Write a story that begins with your main character swimming in a lake.

58. Sometime this week, spend a few minutes sitting outside or staring out your window to observe another person. Write about what you notice that can help to sketch them as a character. 

59. Make a case for one of your favorite traditions —whether it be celebrating a recognized holiday or a personal ritual. 

60. Write a short story that begins with the ending. For example, perhaps your story is about a girl who gets lost at sea and then captured by pirates—only to become a pirate herself. Begin the story with the girl as a pirate, and then show the readers how she got there. 

61. What is the happiest you’ve ever been?

62. Create a short story that starts with your main character going off to college.

63. What is the most important lesson you’ve learned this year?

64. Lidia Yuknavitch says , “There is so much to learn from the edge of things, from the cracks and cuts and fissures of the earth, of our hearts.” Write a lyrical essay about the cuts and fissures in your own heart and how they’ve led you to this very moment.

65. Write a sensory essay about nature without naming the objects you’re writing about. For example, “The towering giants boast cherry-ripe foliage at this time of year.” 

66. Craft a short story about the final day of summer (September 22). 🍂

67. Try your hand at children’s lit by creating a story for a younger audience. Have your main character learn a valuable life lesson, and use these stories for inspiration if you need help!

68. When was the last time you felt most alive?

69. Write an essay about a change you knew was coming and how you prepared for it.

70. Create a story where the main character is a caregiver for a loved one.

71. Write a poem about shadows. 

72. On Indigenous People’s Day (October 10), write a historical nonfiction essay about the native land you’re living on . For guiding questions, use the Catalyst Project’s worksheet and Resource Generation’s Land Reparations Toolkit and Indigenous Solidarity Toolkit .

73. Write a story in which a “monster” turns out to be a “hero,” or vice versa. This can be either nonfiction or fiction. 

74. You and your significant other are at home watching a scary movie when the power goes out. Create a spooky story about what happens next!

75. Create a spooky children’s story that takes place in a magical forest.

76. Write a story that begins with a girl making her own Halloween costume.

77. Write a persuasive essay about an unconventional fear. Make a case for why more people should consider this fear.

78. A group of friends escapes to a private island for an end-of-year holiday. But when they arrive, the hotel is deserted, and the boat has already left the dock. What happens next?

79. Write about the last time you felt hopeful.

80. In preparation for losing an hour of daylight this month, write a poem about all your favorite cozy things. 

81. Write a story that begins with your main character dreaming.

82. In “ Braiding Sweetgrass ,” Robin Wall Kimmerer writes, “In some Native languages the term for ‘plants’ translates to ‘those who take care of us.’” In an essay, write about how the earth cares for humanity. Begin with a personal anecdote about a time you felt nurtured by nature.

83. Write a first-person essay that revolves around food or a family recipe.

84. Practice shifting between past and present tense by writing an essay about a childhood experience that impacts who you are today.

85. Write a letter to your younger self.

86. Create a story based on a time you went on a spontaneous adventure.

87. Your main characters are at a college football game when, suddenly, the sky goes black. What happens next?

88. How do you overcome self-doubt? Write a how-to essay.

89. What are you most grateful for this year?

December 

90. Write a poem about your favorite sound.

91. Reflect on winter pastimes. What do you love most about this season? Write a short essay about it.

92. Make up your own holiday poem reminiscent of “Night Before Christmas” (or the equivalent for your celebrated traditions).

93. Your main character is a ballerina performing in The Nutcracker, but secretly, they wish to be a teacher. Write a story about this.

94. Who is someone you admire in your life? Write a tribute essay to them.

95. To get in the spirit, create a Hallmarkesque script for a cheesy holiday film.

96. Write an essay that begins with your favorite holiday memory.

97. Your main character is a flight attendant working the holiday season. Write about a strange encounter they have on the plane.

98. What is the importance of rest, and why is it such a necessary practice for our lives?

99. In your final prompt of the year, write an essay about time and forward motion. Begin by reflecting on the past, write about the importance of mindfulness and living in the present moment, and then welcome whatever comes next.

If you write a story with one of these writing prompts and you’d like to share, feel free to link or paste it in the comments below! 💛

Kayti Christian (she/her) is the Managing Editor at The Good Trade. She has a Master’s in Nonfiction Writing from the University of London and is the creator of Feelings Not Aside , a newsletter for sensitive people.

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5 creative strategies used by seasoned writers to keep writer's block at bay 

What does it mean to be creative? 

At the heart of it, creativity is the ability to generate new ideas. Creative people take an original approach to problem-solving, are willing to take risks, and constantly search for sources of inspiration in everyday life. Being creative also involves the capacity to make new connections between seemingly different ideas or concepts and the ability to shift your perspective.

Creativity is also an essential component of successful creative writing. That's because creative writing is all about pushing boundaries, pulling from your unique experiences, and seeing where your imagination can take you. There is no right or wrong in creative writing, which can be freeing or intimidating, depending on your mindset.

Creative writing techniques and tools for success 

A shared worry of aspiring and accomplished writers alike is losing creative inspiration. However, there are many strategies you can implement to overcome writer's block. Read on to explore some tools famous authors have used to jumpstart their creativity and improve the quality of their work. 

1. Just write

"I suppose I do get 'blocked' sometimes, but I don't like to call it that. That seems to give it more power than I want it to have. What I try to do is write… And it might be just the most boring and awful stuff. But I try. And then it's as if the muse is convinced I'm serious and says 'OK. OK. I'll come.'" – Maya Angelou 

Undoubtedly, one of the most challenging parts of writing is getting the ball rolling. Even renowned author and poet Maya Angelou could not escape occasional dry spells of creativity. However, her strategy, which she explained in the book  Writers Dreaming , was straightforward: just write. Commit to writing whatever comes out, whether good, bad, or incoherent, and trust that you will eventually be inspired. To that end, the more you write, the greater your chances of being successful are.

Julia Cameron, author of  The Artist's Way,  created a similar approach called "morning pages," wherein the goal is to wake up and write three handwritten pages of whatever is on your mind without pausing to edit. Morning pages help to clear your head, process any stress you're experiencing, teach you how to quiet your inner critic, and spur your creativity. Although it may feel daunting at first, it becomes less so when you realize it's not about  what  you're writing but  that  you are writing. 

The technical term for the practice of writing without premeditation or planned structure is freewriting. It involves letting your stream-of-consciousness take over without judging or overthinking what you're doing. To kick-start your freewriting process, it can be helpful to pick a set time every day and initially commit to writing for five or ten minutes. The more you integrate it into your routine, the more natural it will become. Eventually, you may even find that you look forward to your daily writing practice.

2. Appreciate others, but find your own voice  

"...To   express yourself, you have to know yourself. It's actually super easy. You have to follow your love. There is no path. There's no path till you walk it, and you have to be willing to play the fool. So don't read the book that you should read, read the book you want to read. Don't listen to the music that you used to like. Take some time to listen to some new music. Take some time to talk to somebody that you don't normally talk to. I guarantee, if you do that, you will feel foolish. That's the point. Play the fool." – Ethan Hawke  

Undoubtedly, most writers have fellow writers or artists they admire. If you're an aspiring screenwriter, you may look up to Quentin Tarantino, Greta Gerwig, or M. Night Shyamalan. But it is crucial to develop your own unique writing style so that you can avoid duplicating the work of others. Two vital elements of any writing style are voice and tone. Voice refers to the point-of-view and personality of your writing, while tone is the overall mood your writing conveys, such as dark, humorous, or optimistic.

And as Ethan Hawke—a screenwriter himself—alludes to in the quote above from a  2020 TED Talk , part of finding your voice involves doing what you love, staying true to yourself, and being curious about the world. Some additional tips to help hone your voice include:

• Choose authentic language reflective of who you are and the audience you're writing for
• Let your life experiences shine through in your work
• Think about genuine conversations you've had to inform dialogue for your characters

Suppose you're struggling to develop relatable characters. In that case, you can opt to base one on a friend, family member, or coworker whose personality and behaviors you're intimately familiar with. Discovering your distinctive voice will take time and effort, but that makes it all the more rewarding once you do.

3. Start a journaling practice

"Keeping a journal sharpens our senses. It's like an exercise in writing. If you're describing a scene, you are practicing the act of writing—which is very important—and thinking in language." – Joyce Carol Oates 

Journaling is excellent for your mental health, and it can also help you sharpen your observational skills, refine your voice, and provide inspiration for story ideas. Your journal can be a space for character studies, dialogue work, raw personal insights, motivating quotes, or whatever you choose to make it. The goal is not perfection. Instead, journaling should be another tool to help you get comfortable with writing every day in an uncensored manner.

National Book award-winner and Princeton University creative writing professor Joyce Carol Oates discusses the importance of journaling and offers her personal advice in a recent  article by Masterclass . Her first suggestion is to take your journal everywhere, whether on trips, in the park, or on the subway. The goal is to record, in detail, the people, plant life, architecture, smells, sounds, and foods in your environment. Doing so can help develop your narrative style and improve your descriptive writing skills.

Oates also recommends that you make a habit of journalling spontaneously, at odd hours, and in a limited timeframe. And if you're feeling tired, busy, or in a bad mood, she encourages you to seize the opportunity to journal in the hopes that you can effectively capture this altered mental state for future use. Her final advice is to allow yourself to daydream about characters, settings, and dialogue. For Oates, this involves going for a walk or run, processing her ideas, and then returning home to journal about her thoughts. 

4. Explore the benefits of walking and meditation 

"All truly great thoughts are conceived by walking." – Friedrich Nietzsche

There's nothing like a relaxing walk to clear your head. Joyce Carol Oates is just one of many famous writers—including Henry David Thoreau, Ernest Hemingway, L.M. Montgomery, J.K. Rowling, Haruki Murakami, and Malcolm Gladwell, to name but a few—who have relied on walking to enrich their creative process or cure writer's block. In addition to the many physical and emotional benefits that walking provides, such as reduced stress, enhanced mood, better sleep, and improved cardiovascular health, there is also science to support a powerful connection between walking and enhanced creativity. 

In a  study from Stanford University , researchers found that walking boosts creative output by an astonishing 60%. Interestingly, the results also showed that those who walked indoors or outdoors experienced similar increases in creativity compared to those who remained seated during the experiment. Accordingly, it wasn't likely the environment that was a driving factor in the improvement in creativity but the walking itself.

Another popular tool that may help improve your writing ability is meditation. Getting lost in an activity you enjoy, whether writing, running, or playing music, is called being in a flow state. And engaging in regular meditation may help improve your ability to tap into this flow. Some  scientifically-documented  benefits of meditation that may help you tap into your creativity include reduced stress and anxiety, enhanced self-awareness, improved attention span, and enhanced sleep. 

5. Let go of perfectionism 

"If I waited for perfection, I would never write a word." – Margaret Atwood

Like it or not, perfectionism and creativity don't work well together. The good news is that if you put the abovementioned techniques into practice, you will be less likely to fall victim to perfectionism in your writing. However, if you notice you start to procrastinate or find yourself editing without purpose, then that's a sign to take a step back and refocus. In times like these, it's important to give yourself some grace and try not to overthink things.

Often, the best way to do so is to put your novel, story, poem, or article aside for a couple of days and give yourself some space to process. The key point here is to busy yourself with other activities you enjoy, like exercise, grabbing coffee with a friend, or going to a movie. You may find that once you permit yourself to stop thinking about your work, you will discover the solution to those tricky plot points, capture that missing verse, or nail down your ending when you least expect it.

Explore the Creative Writing Certificate program

Whether you're already a writer or new to the field, the Certificate in Creative Writing at Penn LPS Online provides a workshop experience wherein you can learn new writing tools, expand your horizons, and harness your powers of expression. Through a series of hands-on Ivy League courses in poetry, fiction, screenwriting, and creative nonfiction, you'll obtain a deep dive into multiple literary genres. Additionally, the four-course Creative Writing Certificate prepares you to:

• Explore your creative writing practice as a form of critical thinking
• Discover how to use adaptability, innovation, and collaboration in your work
• Create, revise, and edit your original writing with feedback from your classmates and instructors

The Certificate in Creative Writing is designed to enhance your storytelling skills and provide a structure for your creative process that can be applied to professional roles, including author and journalist, advertising, copywriting, or fundraising/developmental consultant.

Ready to unlock your creativity?  Fill out your application  at Penn LPS Online today and enroll in the  Certificate in Creative Writing . Or view  our course guide  to see the full range of what's currently available.

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40 Tips for Writing Inspiration (Plus Writing Prompts and Tools)

You have this amazing idea for a book. But when you get to typing, the inspiration leaves you after only a few pages.

Or, you have this itch to write but your mind completely blanks when you’re brainstorming ideas.

Do either of these sound like you? Then get ready for the read you need because you’re in the right place!

We’re going to discuss all the ways you can find consistent inspiration that gets you writing. We also have some unique writing prompts for you to get those mind cogs turning. And we have some writing tools that will make finding writing inspiration much easier for you as an author.

How Writing Inspiration Works

As with every other career, writing has its downsides. Once it clicks, it doesn’t mean that you won’t have to work hard to get the desired outcome. You must put effort into finding your writing inspiration.

Sometimes you may get it while riding a train to London like JK Rowling did with the idea for Harry Potter. Other times the train ride is just…well, a train ride.

Inspiration is fickle. You can’t always control it. You have to fuel it.

So, the question beckons… how do you get inspired to write?

How to Get Writing Inspiration

Here are our favorite paths to finding your inner writing muse.

• Make it Personal
• Get It Done
• The Body 
• The Workspace
• Change The Scenery
• Other Creative methods
• Figuring Out The Stories
• A Forever Student
• Out of the Box

Make it personal

• Positive feedback

Ever gotten insanely positive feedback from an editor or tooth-achingly-sweet messages from fans? Read through those in times when you need a confidence boost. You’ll have a more positive outlook on your writing afterward.

We all have an inner critic that’s downright rude and negative. It’s time to use that inner critic for some reverse psychology. Use this to motivate yourself and prove that inner critic wrong.

Caution: This may have the opposite effect on some, so tread carefully!

• Metaphorically make noise

You want people in the industry to be in awe of you. You have to make noise with your work.

Be rowdy and aim to blow them away. Use this mindset to light the fire under your writing inspiration.

If you want to write powerful stuff, be it fiction or nonfiction, you might need to find the energy that drives this force. Try getting mad about the topic you’re writing to really hash it out in your story.

Words that cut deep will pour out of you, making readers shocked at how impressive your book is.

Get it Done

• Make habits not goals

Once your goal is complete, you could easily lose the inspiration. Rather make a habit of your writing by sticking to a routine.

Keep to a schedule and be consistent. The weight of completing your goal of one thousand words a day can be less motivating than, ‘Just write.’

While forcing yourself to sit and write, you may find writing inspiration. But you’ll never know if you don’t stick to it

• Join a group

You can even ask a friend to join you on your journey of consistent writing. Having someone else hold you accountable to your promises helps you build good writing habits.

You can join a Facebook Group, local writers group, etc.

Seeing the progress, you’ve made on a calendar can also help you maintain your writing habits. You won’t break your 1-month streak, will you?

• No editing while writing

This is no time to be proper and put together. Let your writing out to play and run wild. Some of the greatest ideas come from a mess. So, mess it up

• Quantity is #1

Do you know the saying, ‘Quality over quantity’?

Well, throw it out the window. Just write, even if the work stinks. Even if the neighbors call to complain about the stench.

Writing is an activity that needs to be practiced. You’ll write truly awful things. But you have to get all the bad out to find the gold nugget idea that turns into a bestselling novel.

• Go radio silent

Don’t do anything on your phone or laptop that could distract you. Switch notifications off and type away.

Nothing brings you out of your creative space more than beeping and buzzing…and funny animal videos. Unless you’re writing a book about funny animals.

Mastering the mind helps inspiration flow in more easily but it also makes for a more enjoyable writing career.

• Embrace the process

Whether you have a fear of not being good enough or love procrastinating, we all have habits that feel as if they’re holding us back or slowing the process down.

But what if those negative things are part of the process? Embrace them, let them have their space, and make sure to move on and give it your all in your writing.

• Don’t give the negativity power

Never let negative feelings stop you from working on your book. You can overcome anxiety, rejection, and fear because those are temporary feelings.

• Don’t compete with others

Nothing kills creativity more than making yourself feel bad for not being like another author.

Comparing yourself to other authors is not healthy or realistic. Compare what you’re doing to what you’ve already done and use the benchmark to improve.

Exercising is a great way to get the blood flowing. You’ll feel fresh and energized for your writing sessions.

• Get tranquil

Meditate to clear your mind and feel less negativity towards the writing.

• Go for a walk

Besides helping your body by not sitting the whole day, you’ll be giving your mind a break.

Take a break and don’t focus on your ideas; get some sun and fresh air.

You may feel like burning the midnight oil but getting a good night’s rest does wonders for your body and gets you in a better condition to get inspired.

Not to mention, you could have a dream that sparks an idea like Stephenie Meyer had for the Twilight series.

The workspace

Make sure your workspace is clean and uncluttered. You want zero distractions, and a clean desk means a clear mind

Listen to music while writing. This can help you focus and even get you in the zone of the atmosphere you’re creating.

Listening to soundtracks without words can also help those who may get distracted. For example, I listened to the Doom 2016 soundtrack while writing this blog!

Change the scenery

Visit another country…or the closest Starbucks. Changing the environment in which you write can lead to new ideas.

Traveling to another country can spark writing inspiration for your book. Nothing like experiencing the beauty of another place to stir the mind.

• Try people watching

Not in a creepy way! Observing people and their conversations can lead to some interesting character descriptions that really make your heroes stand out.

Maybe it’s time to move altogether. Finding another place to call home closer to what breeds writing inspiration can be a game changer.

Other creative methods

• Read as much as you write

Stephen King put it best:

If you don’t have time to read, you don’t have the time (or the tools) to write. Simple as that Stephen King

Top Tip: Read books from both in and out of your genre. Writing inspiration can come from anywhere!

• Watch TV shows and movies

It’s not a distraction or a waste! In fact, it helps with seeing what drives stories and the different ways that dialogues can go. Or seeing character arcs play out and why it worked.

But maybe channel surfing can lead to an idea. Suzanne Collins came up with Hunger Games while channel surfing.

Start researching, even if you don’t actually need to for your story. See what comes up when searching for the topics you discuss in your book and see what Google has to offer.

You could find something on the news that, with some adaptation, would make a great side plot.

• Get passionate about something else

Paint, draw, sing, and dance!

Find any other creative outlet that lets you express yourself. Writing inspiration will follow because you’re giving your author brain a break.

• Freewriting

Don’t even think about plotting or outlining. Just write; without structure and without editing. Freewriting will let ideas come more easily. 

• YouTube can be a friend, not an enemy

Go down the YouTube rabbit hole on purpose. Who knows what intriguing concepts can come from seeing different YouTube channels argue whether the Megalodon Shark is extinct or not?

It’s probably extinct…right?

• Social media

Time to procrastinate to get inspired! For example, hop on Pinterest and search for topics similar to the book you’re writing and see what pops up!

Listen to podcasts and Ted Talks. Writing inspiration can come from listening to others be creative and passionate about what they’re interested in.

Playing word games is a great way to practice vocabulary.

You can even play video games with captivating stories to get writing inspiration in a fun way! You can even jot down how they used story devices to portray the idea through a game.

Figuring out The stories

Nothing is truly original in this world. One thing inspires another, which inspires another, and so on.  Here are some tips you can use to get your writing inspiration back and write a good, unique story while using other arts as your muse:

• Mix and Match

Don’t feel shy to use your favorite works to inspire you and drive your next book. Pick out a few of your classics: go to books, movies, shows, etc., and start mixing and matching the plots, themes, and character types.

• The sillier the better

No matter how insane your story might sound, don’t give up on it.

Life of Pi is about a child with a nickname of a mathematical number who gets stuck out at sea with a tiger. You may have to try hard for your story to be told like Yann Martel .

Rejections from Publishers didn’t stop Yann, so doubt and fear shouldn’t stop you.

• Make sure you care

Perfect characters with no flaws and no conflicts don’t lead to captivating stories. You need to care about your characters and let them lead you through your plot.

They may make questionable decisions from time to time, but that’s what makes for an entertaining story.

A forever student

• Pen and Paper

Take this wherever you go. Jot down ideas while on a walk.

While reading, write down what you liked about a certain scene and why it was successful.

• Carry a Camera

Take pictures when traveling of what could inspire your book’s environment.

You can even take pictures at the Starbucks of what inspired you at the moment to keep the momentum going.

• Never stop learning

In any profession, you must always be open to learning new things. This applies to authorship too!

If you’re in a rut, take a course or read books about writing.

We’ll get to those books about writing later in this blog so keep reading.

Out of the box

• Ask yourself questions

The old improvisation trick that comedians use to find comedic gold. The ‘what if?’ questions.

It can work for authors too! You need to ask as many ‘what-ifs’ until you hit the jackpot.

What if I came home and my door was left ajar?

What if people could shapeshift in the 1700s?

What if I could fly?

What if I could fly….and I ate bugs every time I opened my mouth while doing it?

Adapt other improvisation techniques used for acting into your writing. Before you scroll away, hear me out.

Never say no to an idea when you’re trying to find writing inspiration. Rather change the direction you were going in to generate unique circumstances.

For example, every time you write something and you’re not sure where it will lead, say ‘change’ and flip the script to anything besides the path you were moving on.

‘She walked the same path every day but today she took a left and stumbled into her old friend that she hadn’t seen in 10 years.’

‘She stumbled into a vampire sucking blood from her old friend.’

‘She stumbled into a portal that took her to that same alley 10 years ago where she first met her old friend.’

‘She came across a swamp and her old friend was being chased by a crocodile.’

Maybe your final story doesn’t take any of these directions. But it’ll get the brain working to make the silly idea work and you may come back to your original idea with fresh eyes. Or you may find yourself mixing your kooky ideas into your story.

• Best Tip of all

Have fun! Write with childlike wonder and playfulness. Being an author is a dream come true, so enjoy it!

Writing Prompts

You know you need to stick to your routine and write every day. But you need a break from thinking up original stories or writing the story you’ve come up with. You need something to spark that fire in you again.

We’ve got you covered. We have some unique writing prompts for you to dig your heels into and bring back that writing inspiration.

But first, let’s make sure you understand the benefits and how you should get the most out of the writing prompts.

Writing Prompt Benefits

When trying to find that writing inspiration, you can turn to writing prompts. Here are some benefits you can get from using writing prompts:

• Quick inspiration: It’s a fast way to start writing, the idea is already formed. You just need to write.
• Practice writing: Writing is a skill that needs to be maintained and having writing prompts makes it easier to stick to daily writing routines.
• New perspective: It can help you open your mind up to new ideas and give your book a break so you can come back with a fresh mind.

Writing Prompt Tips

Here are some tips for using writing prompts effectively:

• Your genre: Use writing prompts in your preferred genre to help motivate you in your work
• Out of your comfort genre: Pick writing prompts outside your preferred genre to tap into new inspiration that could lead to interesting plots.
• Just do it: Don’t think too much about where you want the story to lead; let your writing flow
• Know when to move on: Maybe a certain writing prompt isn’t working for you, move on and try another one!
• Answer the door: You may have turned to writing prompts, but if writing inspiration knocks at your door, then you better answer and leave the prompt behind.
• Toss it and accept it: You won’t be churning out magic every time you write. It’s just to keep practicing the craft.

Creative Writing Prompts In Each Genre

As promised, here are those unique writing prompts for each genre:

Horror/Thriller Writing Prompts

• Your character comes home to find that their living room looks like a murder scene. Bloody handprints everywhere. But they live alone.
• During a family reunion, the whole family decides to play a game of hide and seek. Your character is the first to seek. They follow a trail of blood to find their sibling hurt and scared.

Sci-Fi Writing Prompts

• Your character is woken up by sirens. They look up to see the moon is getting closer to the earth. They need to try and escape Earth before the moon plummets.
• Humans co-exist with dinosaurs in this world, but there’s a disease going around that corrupts them, making them kill everything in their path.

Mystery Writing Prompts

• Your character blacked out one night and after that night, hasn’t been able to sleep for a few days. They realize they haven’t seen or heard from their roommate since that night.
• Your character hears screaming and loud machinery coming from their neighbor’s house. The neighbor puts a large bin packet in their car and leaves.

General Fiction Writing Prompts

• Your character was in a horrible car crash that killed a loved one. They remember seeing the other driver wearing a specific clothing item. One day they see someone wearing the same item and decide to follow this person.
• Your character teleports to a different spot in time every time they sneeze.

Romance Writing Prompts

It’s time to get your inner romantic out for some Romance writing prompts:

• 2 friends get married to stop the other from getting deported. One has feelings for the other.
• Your character finds a note from their old crush in their middle school bag. They’re in high school now.
• Your character has a suggestive dream about someone they’ve never met before. The next day they see this person walk into their office space. They’re a client and he seems to recognize them.
• Your character must find their soulmate by December 31 st , or the year resets and they live in a 1-year loop until they find The One.
• Your character has started going on blind dates. They meet someone in the process that they can see a future with, but an old flame comes back into their life.

Fantasy Writing Prompts

With these, you get to break the rules and laws of physics and biology. That’s right, it’s Fantasy writing prompts:

• Vampires survive off something other than blood. And only a certain material can kill them. That material is becoming increasingly scarce.
• Demons exist and come out when it’s dark. Only those that have powers can defeat them. But to gain powers you need to be bitten by a mythical creature that either kills you or gives you powers.
• In the middle of a supernatural war, a witch puts the spirit of their dying family member into their sword. The sword becomes an entity that can move on its own.
• Your character leads a normal life until one day they mistakenly touch the flame on the stove. Instead of burning, your character can control the flame.

Writing Tools and Recommendations That Make Being an Author Easier

Besides the struggle to find writing inspiration, there’s also the stress of being an author that could be weighing on your mind.

To help organize your authorship, we’ve compiled some writing tools and recommendations to take the weight off your shoulders and make it easier to get your writing inspiration back.

Author Website

Blog writing, books on writing, author marketing.

While trying to get inspired, you may be worrying about how people will find your work. The truth is, that having a centralized place to showcase all your work makes it easier for you to sell books consistently.

Fans and potential fans will easily find you and buy your books. This is why an author website is so important for your authorship. A place that’s open 24/7 and that is dedicated to you!

If you need an author website and you’re lost on how to get started, we can help!

Once you have an author website, it’s time to build that email list. This is all about getting non-fans interested enough to buy a book and fans to buy even more books. This is how they will stay up to date with you as an author. 

Check out our blog on Author Newsletters to really get started on this vital journey.

Top Tip: Subscribe to other authors’ blogs to learn more about different perspectives and help fuel your writing inspiration.

Writing a blog for your website is a great break from actively seeking writing inspiration. Plus, it engages your fans and solidifies your author platform .

You have to read books to nourish your writing inspiration. But have you tried reading books about writing books?

Turns out there are authors who can provide you with a swift kick up the bottom through their books on tips for finding inspiration and staying motivated.

Here are a few you can start with:

• On Writing by Stephen King
• Writing Fiction: A Guide to Narrative Craft by Janet Burroway, Elizabeth Stuckey-French, and Ned Stuckey-French
• Plot and Structure by James Scott Bell
• The War of Art by Steven Pressfield
• Everybody Writes: Your Go-To-Guide to Creating Ridiculously Good Content by Ann Handley
• Bird By Bird by Anne Lamott

You need to work on maintaining and boosting your author brand to reach new audiences. This also serves as a productive break from writing. These are some areas you can start with:

Getting social

An online presence is a must for an author. Your author website is a great start, but what if people want to have more day-to-day contact with you? 

You can’t post a blog every day. But you can post frequently on Facebook or Twitter.

If you’re looking to ace the Social Media game, then our blog on Facebook Page for Authors is a step in the right direction.

Book promotion

From Book Teasers and Book Trailers to Book Launches and Book Signings . We have all the guides you’ll need to successfully market your books.

The anticipation of marketing your completed book should drive you to create the best book you can. Let the end goal inspire you!

It’s hard to get inspiration for writing when your back is aching, and your wrists are sore. You need to invest in good quality equipment that makes your life easier as an author.

You need a writing desk that is large enough to house all your writing equipment and also the right height for you.

An adjustable sit-stand desk is great for when you want to stand and write.

Back and neck support can do wonders for your posture while writing. Make sure your writing chair fits under your desk and does not cause strain in other areas.

For example, armrests may push up your shoulders causing neck and shoulder strain.

Buy a mouse that fits in your hand comfortably.

It would be cool to enjoy the click-clack of the typewriter, and mechanical keyboards are the next best thing. And they feel amazing to type with for typing enthusiasts.

But if you want something quieter and more streamlined, there are great membrane keyboards that do the job well. Just be sure that the keyboard suits the size of your hands and fits into your workspace (accounting for your sitting posture to ease the strain on your wrists).

Lastly, make sure your workspace is well-lit to stop eye strain. A spot near the window will help with lighting .

Writing Inspiration vs Writing Discipline 

Being an author is less about waiting by the phone for writing inspiration to call and more about practicing daily and trusting the process. Go forth and write because inspiration will eventually strike.

This Nancy Kress quote sums it up well:

Write. Just do it. Then again. Then some more. And more. Do not wait for inspiration; if you do enough of it often enough, inspiration will eventually come. Nancy Kress

If writing inspiration takes its time, it won’t slow you down. You’ve been all the while preparing for its return and you’re ready to write up a storm. 

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10 Steps to Find Your Writing Motivation and Inspiration

September 28, 2023

Writing is an art that requires creativity and inspiration to produce great content. For new authors sometime finding motivation to write and inspiration is difficult but crucial to your success. The process of writing can be challenging, and writers often face many obstacles that can hinder their creativity.

These challenges can range from writer’s block to a total lack of inspiration.

When writers lack motivation and inspiration, their creativity and productivity suffer. They may find themselves struggling to come up with new ideas, and their writing may become dull and uninspired. This can lead to frustration and even burnout, which is obviously detrimental to a writing career!

To overcome these challenges, new authors need to find ways to stay motivated and inspired. In this article, I will cover ten steps that can help new authors find their writing motivation and inspiration.

By following these ten steps, new authors can spark inspiration and turn finding your motivation to write and produce great content into second nature.

Writing is a journey, and it is essential to find ways to stay motivated and inspired along the way.

Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

Set Clear Goals:

The first step is to set clear goals. Having clear goals is essential in writing. It helps you as a writer define your objectives and stay focused on what you want to achieve. Whether it is finishing a novel, writing a blog, or submitting articles to publications, setting goals can give you a clear direction.

Make sure to establish short, medium and longer-term goals so that you have something to work towards. Don’t be afraid to add milestones along the way too, for the longer goals, so that you know you’re on track. Seeing progress can help with your motivation.

Once you have set your goals, you need to break them down into smaller, achievable tasks.

This helps you avoid feeling overwhelmed and makes the process more manageable. For example, if the goal is to write a novel, you should break it down into chapters or scenes and set deadlines for each section.

With a clear direction and purpose, you can stay motivated and inspired to achieve your writing dreams.

Create a Writing Routine:

Establishing a consistent writing routine is essential as a new author to stay motivated and inspired. When you make writing a habit, it becomes easier to get into the flow of writing and overcome writer’s block.

Setting aside dedicated time for writing each day or week can help you establish a routine and create a sense of discipline. It is essential to find a time that works best for you, whether it is early in the morning, late at night, or during your lunch break.

Creating a designated writing space can also help establish a focused mindset. Whether it is a home office, a local library, or a coffee shop, finding a space that works for you can help you get into the writing zone.

Make sure your writing space is free of distractions and equipped with the tools you need to write effectively, such as a comfortable chair, a desk, and a computer or notebook.

In addition to setting aside time and creating a designated writing space, it is crucial to establish a plan for the actual activities in each session.

This can include activities such as brainstorming, outlining, and editing, in addition to actual writing. Setting targets to establish a routine that becomes a habit is a key to success for many new writers.

By breaking down the writing process into manageable tasks and incorporating them into your routine, you can stay motivated and inspired to achieve your writing goals.

Explore Different Writing Prompts:

Writing prompts can be a powerful tool for authors to overcome writer’s block and find inspiration. Writing prompts are short, open-ended statements or questions that can help writers generate ideas and start writing.

They can be used to explore different genres, styles, and perspectives and challenge writers to think outside the box. Many successful authors have used writing prompts to jumpstart their creativity and develop their writing skills.

There are many sources of writing prompts available, including books, websites, and apps.  Many author-focused websites provide writing prompts and Reddit’s Writing Prompts community offers a wide range of prompts for writers to explore.

Writing prompt apps are also available for your phone or tablet to provide daily prompts and writing exercises to help writers practice their craft.

New authors especially should experiment with different types of writing prompts to find what works best for them. Some writers may prefer prompts that are specific and detailed, while others may prefer more open-ended prompts that allow for more creative freedom.

Try different types to figure out which style works best for you. Trying out different prompts can help you discover your strengths and weaknesses and develop a unique writing style.

Incorporating writing prompts into a writing routine can also be a helpful way for you to stay motivated and inspired. By setting aside time each day or week to work on a prompt, you can develop a consistent writing practice and build momentum towards your writing goals.

Overall, exploring different writing prompts can be a valuable tool to overcome writer’s block and find new inspiration for their writing.

Read Widely:

As a new author, reading widely can be an excellent source of inspiration and motivation. When you read different genres, styles, and authors, you expose yourself to different writing techniques and ideas. It can help you develop your unique writing style and voice.

Reading is also an excellent way to learn about the writing craft and techniques. It is important to explore diverse genres and styles to broaden your horizons and avoid getting stuck in a writing rut.

For example, if you mostly write fiction, try reading some non-fiction or poetry to gain a new perspective. Similarly, if you mainly read classic literature, try reading some contemporary authors to see what’s trending in the industry.

Keeping a reading journal can also be a useful tool for new authors. You can jot down your thoughts and ideas as you read, which can inspire you to write something new or develop an existing idea.

You can also use your reading journal to track your progress and set reading goals. For example, you can challenge yourself to read a certain number of books in a month or a year.

Reading widely is an essential tool for new authors to find inspiration and motivation. By exploring diverse genres and styles and keeping a reading journal, you can develop your unique writing style and voice.

It is a great way to learn about the writing craft and techniques and keep up with the latest trends in the industry. So, make sure to add reading to your writing routine to stay inspired and motivated.

Find a Writing Community:

Connecting with fellow writers can be an excellent way for authors to boost their motivation and find support in their writing journey. Joining writing groups, workshops, or online communities can provide numerous benefits, including the opportunity to receive feedback, learn new skills, and share experiences with other writers.

One of the most significant advantages of joining a writing community is the chance to receive feedback on your work. Sharing your writing with others can help you identify areas for improvement and gain valuable insights into your writing style.

Additionally, feedback from other writers can help you refine your work and make it more engaging for readers.

Apart from feedback, connecting with fellow writers can also help you find support and encouragement in your writing journey. Writing can be a solitary activity, and it is easy to feel discouraged or unmotivated without the support of others.

Joining a writing community can provide you with a sense of belonging and camaraderie, which can boost your confidence and motivation to keep writing.

Finally, being part of a writing community can give you access to shared experiences and knowledge. You can learn from other writers’ experiences, gain insights into the writing industry, and discover new techniques to improve your writing.

By connecting with other writers, you can expand your knowledge and skills and take your writing to the next level.

Joining a writing community can provide numerous benefits for new authors, including feedback, support, and shared experiences. Whether you join a local writing group, attend a workshop, or participate in an online community, connecting with fellow writers can help you stay motivated and inspired in your writing journey.

So don’t hesitate to reach out and connect with other writers – you never know what opportunities and insights may come your way.

Overcome Writer’s Block:

Writer’s block is a common obstacle that many writers face at some point in their writing journey. It can be frustrating and disheartening to feel stuck and unable to move forward with your writing.

However, it is important to remember that writer’s block is a natural part of the creative process and can be overcome with the right strategies.

One effective strategy for overcoming writer’s block is freewriting. This involves setting a timer for a set amount of time and writing continuously without stopping or worrying about grammar, spelling, structure or quality.

The goal of freewriting is to generate ideas and get your creative juices flowing. By allowing yourself to write without judgment or expectation, you may be surprised at the ideas that emerge.

Another strategy is to try mind mapping. This involves creating a visual diagram of your ideas and how they connect. By organizing your thoughts in this way, you may be able to identify new connections and ideas that can help you move forward with your writing.

Sometimes, changing your writing environment can also help to overcome writer’s block. This could mean moving to a different location, such as a coffee shop or park, or simply changing the position of your desk or chair. By altering your surroundings, you may be able to shake off any feelings of stagnation and find a new perspective on your writing.

Ultimately, the key to overcoming writer’s block is to keep writing. Even if you feel like your writing is imperfect or not up to your usual standards, it is important to keep pushing forward.

Remember, writing is a process, and it is okay to make mistakes along the way. By embracing imperfection and continuing to write, you may be surprised at how quickly you can overcome writer’s block and get back to creating your best work.

Seek Inspiration from Everyday Life:

As a writer, it is essential to find inspiration from everyday life. There’s a wealth of potential story ideas all around us, waiting to be discovered.

While you are out doing everyday activities, observe the people, places, and events around you. It could be as simple as taking a walk around the neighborhood or sitting in a coffee shop and people-watching. By staying curious and open to new experiences, writers can find inspiration in unexpected places.

One way to find inspiration is to pay attention to the details. The way someone walks or talks, the colors and textures of a building, or the smells and sounds of a particular location can all spark ideas for a story.

Take note of these details and use them to create vivid descriptions in your writing. By incorporating sensory details, you can make your stories come alive on the page.

Another way to find inspiration is to draw from personal experiences. Think about moments in your own life that could be turned into compelling stories. It could be a childhood memory, a difficult experience you overcame, or a moment of joy or triumph. By tapping into your own emotions and experiences, you can create stories that feel authentic and relatable.

Finally, remember that inspiration can come from anywhere. A news article, a conversation with a friend, or a random thought that pops into your head can all be starting points for a story. Always keep an open mind and be willing to explore new ideas.

By staying curious and open to new experiences, you can find inspiration in even the most unlikely places.

Experiment with Different Writing Techniques:

It is important to experiment with various writing techniques and styles to keep your work fresh and exciting. Trying out different narrative structures, perspectives, or genres can help you spark your creativity and motivation.

By breaking away from your usual writing routine, you might discover new ways to approach your work and develop your writing skills.

One technique you might try is changing the narrative structure of your story. Instead of starting at the beginning and moving linearly through the plot, you might choose to start in the middle or even the end and work backward. This can add an element of surprise and keep your readers engaged.

Playing with different points of view can also be a fun way to experiment with your writing. Try writing from the perspective of a minor character, or switch between multiple narrators to add depth and complexity to your story.

Another way to experiment with your writing is to try out different genres. If you typically write romance, try writing a horror story or a sci-fi adventure. This can challenge you to develop new skills and flex your creative muscles.

You might even discover a new favorite genre that you never would have explored otherwise.

Overall, remember that experimentation is key to keeping your writing fresh and exciting. Don’t be afraid to try new things and take risks with your writing. By staying open-minded and curious, you can continue to grow and develop your craft as a writer.

Take Breaks and Rest:

As writers, we often push ourselves to the limit in pursuit of our writing goals. We may spend hours at our desks, typing away at our keyboards, fueled by the passion and excitement that comes with creating something new.

However, it is important to remember that our minds and bodies need rest and rejuvenation to maintain our motivation and creativity over the long term.

Taking breaks is essential to keeping our writing fresh and exciting. When we’re constantly pushing ourselves to write, we can quickly become burned out, and our writing can suffer as a result.

By taking regular breaks, we can give our minds a chance to rest and recharge, allowing us to return to our writing with renewed energy and enthusiasm.

But what should we do during these breaks?

Engaging in other activities, such as walking, meditation, or pursuing hobbies, can be an excellent way to rejuvenate the mind. These activities allow us to step away from our writing and focus on something else entirely, giving our brains a much-needed break from the creative process.

In addition to taking breaks throughout the day, it is also important to take longer breaks regularly. This could mean taking a few days off from writing each week or taking a longer break between projects.

By giving ourselves time to rest and recharge, we can come back to our writing with a fresh perspective and renewed motivation, ready to tackle whatever challenges lie ahead.

So don’t be afraid to take a step back and prioritize self-care and rest in your writing practice.

Your writing (and your mind) will thank you for it.

Celebrate Achievements:

As writers, we often get so caught up in the process of creating and perfecting our work that we forget to celebrate our achievements. However, taking the time to acknowledge and appreciate our progress is essential for maintaining motivation and building confidence in our writing abilities.

One way to celebrate milestones and achievements is by setting specific goals for ourselves. Whether it is completing a certain number of pages or chapters, reaching a certain word count, or submitting our work to a particular publication, having clear goals can help us stay focused and motivated.

Once you have reached your goals, it is important to take the time to acknowledge your accomplishments. This could mean treating ourselves to a special meal or activity, buying ourselves a small gift, or simply taking a moment to reflect on what we’ve achieved and why it matters.

Celebrating achievements can also be a great way to connect with other writers and build a sense of community. By sharing our successes with fellow writers, we can inspire and encourage one another, as well as learn from each other’s experiences.

In the end, celebrating achievements is not just about recognizing our own progress and hard work, but also about cultivating a positive and supportive writing environment.

So let’s take the time to celebrate our achievements, big and small, and encourage others to do the same.

After all, writing is a long journey, and every step forward is worth celebrating.

So there you have it, 10 steps to get (and keep) your writing mojo!

Finding writing motivation and inspiration can be a challenging task, but it is not impossible.

By implementing the ten steps outlined in this article, new authors can develop a consistent writing practice and build momentum toward their writing goals.

Persistence and self-discovery are essential elements of the writing journey, and by consistently applying these steps, you can enhance your writing skills and nurture your creative spirit.

It is important to acknowledge and appreciate our progress and achievements, big and small. Celebrating our successes can help us stay motivated and build a sense of community with other writers.

By sharing our achievements with fellow writers, we can inspire and encourage one another, as well as learn from each other’s experiences.

Finally, it is essential to remember that writing is a journey, and every step forward is worth celebrating. Even if we face challenges or setbacks along the way, it is important to stay focused and committed to our writing goals.

So, let’s take the time to celebrate our achievements and encourage others to do the same.

With persistence, self-discovery, and a supportive writing environment, new authors can achieve their writing dreams and create meaningful works that inspire and entertain readers.

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Artists and Their Inspirations: 10 Influential Sources of Creative Motivation

In this article ,”Artists and Their Inspirations: 10 Influential Sources of Creative Motivation”, we take a deeper look at the top 10 sources of inspiration that continue to stoke the fires of creativity within the minds of artists all around the world.In all of its myriad manifestations, art is an embodiment of the human experience; it captures feelings, narratives, and visions that are independent of both time and culture.

An intricate web of inspirations and impulses that serve to drive the creative spirit can be found at the back of every masterpiece. The process of artistic production is frequently entangled with a wide variety of sources of inspiration, and this can be seen in everything from the grandiose strokes of a painter’s brush to the melodious symphonies orchestrated by composers.

Many things have given artists ideas over the years, but the Famous Artists and Their Muses who have left an indelible mark on their work may be the most interesting and lasting. These muses, who could be lovers, friends, or traditional muses, have given some of the world’s most famous artists ideas for their works.

10 Influential Sources of Creative Motivation for Artists

Artists find ideas and concepts for their works in a wide variety of places, each of which has the potential to ignite the artist’s creative passion and propel them toward the production of works of exceptional quality. These sources span from the tangibly real to the purely speculative, as well as from the intensely personal to the general. The following is a list of the top ten sources of inspiration for creative work for artists:

1. Nature’s Bountiful Palette

The awe-inspiring scenery, vibrant hues, and fine details that can be found in nature have provided painters with inspiration for an incalculable amount of time. The way light interacts with water, the majesty of mountains, and the delicate beauty of flowers have all served as inspiration for numerous painters, photographers, and sculptors to produce their works of art.

Key Aspects: Nature’s Bountiful Palette

2. historical narratives and myths.

Myths and legends from different cultures can provide a plethora of ideas, and history contains a rich mine of stories to draw from. It is common practice for artists to research past occurrences, people, or myths in order to reimagine and reanimate these stories in a manner that is singularly their own.

Key Aspects: Historical Narratives and Myths

3. personal journeys and emotions.

It is common practice for artists to draw inspiration from their own personal experiences and feelings. The creative process can serve as a cathartic avenue for personal expression, enabling artists to communicate their happiness, sadness, and internal thoughts through the media of their choice.

Key Aspects: Personal Journeys and Emotions

4. urban dynamics and city life.

Artists have been inspired to create works that represent the essence of modern civilization by the vivacity of city life, the bustling streets, and the rhythm of urban landscapes. Artists frequently use the city itself as a canvas for their creative creations, whether it be in the form of street art or cityscapes.

Key Aspects: Urban Dynamics and City Life

5. cultural diversity and traditions.

Motivation for creativity can be found in huge quantities within the complex tapestry of various civilizations. Artists frequently investigate and promote cultural diversity, as well as distinct traditions and customs, with the goals of bridging gaps and fostering a deeper knowledge of a variety of countries.

Key Aspects: Cultural Diversity and Traditions

6. technological innovations and modern advancements.

The intersection of art and technology has resulted in the emergence of fresh modes of creative expression. Artists are embracing technological breakthroughs in order to broaden the boundaries of their profession and engage with current audiences. This can be seen in everything from virtual reality experiences to digital art.

Key Aspects: Technological Innovations and Modern Advancements

7. political and social movements.

Artists frequently deal with the issues of their day and use their work as a tool to address political and social concerns. One example of this would be the phrase “artists frequently engage with the issues of their time.” Their works have the potential to act as potent instruments for social commentary and as a driving force behind societal change.

Key Aspects: Political and Social Movements

8. spiritual and philosophical quests.

The pursuit of answers to philosophical and spiritual issues has proven to be a rich source of inspiration for creative people. The expression of the intangible components of faith, belief, and transcendence are frequently conveyed through the medium of art, which serves as a tool for grappling with existential questions.

Key Aspects: Spiritual and Philosophical Quests

9. interpersonal relationships and connections.

Artists have, for a very long time, been fascinated by the intricacies of human interactions. Whether it be through portraiture or music, artists strive to represent the breadth of human experience as well as the complex interconnections that make up human relationships.

Key Aspects: Interpersonal Relationships and Connections

10. dreams and imagination.

The inexhaustible domain of dreams and imagination acts as an endless wellspring of inspiration for creative endeavors. It gives artists the ability to break out from the confines of reality and explore the fantastical, the surreal, and the whimsical in order to generate surprise and interest in their audiences.

Key Aspects: Dreams and Imagination

Check out art that’s not just paintings and sculptures! Visit famous art shows that draw people from all over the world. Check out our interesting article on  Famous Art Exhibitions  to help you plan your next art-driven trip.

Because it is the physical manifestation of human creativity, art derives its vitality from a conglomeration of diverse influences that combine to form the individual viewpoint of its creator. The varied sources of creative motivation give artists with a rich fabric onto which they can weave their narratives. These sources range from the raw emotions that are embedded in human experiences to the panoramic breadth of the beauties that nature has to offer. These sources will definitely continue to influence and mold the creative activities of artists, infusing their enduring masterpieces with new vitality as the artistic environment continues to shift and develop.

Where do artists get their ideas?

Nature, personal experiences, emotions, cultural diversity, and historical narratives are all common sources of inspiration for artists. Finding inspiration is a highly personal process that varies depending on the artist’s unique perspective and creative process.

Is it possible for art to represent society issues?

Art is a strong medium for reflecting on and addressing societal issues. Artists can call attention to societal injustices, cultural quandaries, and political unrest through visual representations, music, and other art forms, creating critical conversations and supporting social change.

How important is imagination in art?

Imagination is an essential component of artistic expression, acting as a catalyst for invention and creativity. It allows artists to explore undiscovered realms of the mind and spirit to create unique and thought-provoking creations that provoke awe and introspection.

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The scientific study of inspiration in the creative process: challenges and opportunities

Victoria c. oleynick.

Department of Psychology, College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, VA, USA

Todd M. Thrash

Michael c. lefew, emil g. moldovan, paul d. kieffaber.

Inspiration is a motivational state that compels individuals to bring ideas into fruition. Creators have long argued that inspiration is important to the creative process, but until recently, scientists have not investigated this claim. In this article, we review challenges to the study of creative inspiration, as well as solutions to these challenges afforded by theoretical and empirical work on inspiration over the past decade. First, we discuss the problem of definitional ambiguity, which has been addressed through an integrative process of construct conceptualization. Second, we discuss the challenge of how to operationalize inspiration. This challenge has been overcome by the development and validation of the Inspiration Scale (IS), which may be used to assess trait or state inspiration. Third, we address ambiguity regarding how inspiration differs from related concepts (creativity, insight, positive affect) by discussing discriminant validity. Next, we discuss the preconception that inspiration is less important than “perspiration” (effort), and we review empirical evidence that inspiration and effort both play important—but different—roles in the creative process. Finally, with many challenges overcome, we argue that the foundation is now set for a new generation of research focused on neural underpinnings. We discuss potential challenges to and opportunities for the neuroscientific study of inspiration. A better understanding of the biological basis of inspiration will illuminate the process through which creative ideas “fire the soul,” such that individuals are compelled to transform ideas into products and solutions that may benefit society.

Introduction

Describing his creative process, Mozart observed, “Those ideas that please me I retain in memory, and am accustomed, as I have been told, to hum them to myself. If I continue in this way,” he writes, “it soon occurs to me how I may turn this or that morsel to account so as to make a good dish of it… All this fires my soul” (Harding, 1948 ). Mozart’s depiction of inspiration possesses all of the core elements of the modern scientific inspiration construct—appreciation of new or better possibilities (“ideas that please me”), passive evocation (“it…occurs to me”), and motivation to bring the new possibilities into fruition (turning a morsel into a dish; “fires my soul”). Like Mozart, writers, artists, and other creators commonly emphasize the importance of inspiration in the creative process (Harding, 1948 ). Despite this, until recently, scientists have given little attention to inspiration.

Perhaps it is not surprising that inspiration has received little attention within the scientific community, given the numerous challenges that the inspiration concept has presented. Among these challenges have been (a) a lack of clarity about the meaning of inspiration; (b) difficulty of operationalization; (c) ambiguity about whether inspiration is distinct from related constructs; (d) preconceptions that inspiration is unimportant relative to “perspiration,” and (e) a variety of barriers to neuroscientific investigation. The overarching goal of this article is to address each of these challenges and to point to opportunities for expanding upon the emerging scientific literature on inspiration. We address the first challenge, ambiguity of definition, in the next section.

Conceptualization

The term “inspiration” has been used in a variety disciplines (e.g., literary criticism, theology, psychology) and literatures within psychology (e.g., social comparison, humanism, creative process; for a review, see Thrash and Elliot, 2003 ). Often the term is not defined, is used interchangeably with other constructs, or is referenced only to be critiqued as mythical, unimportant, or unscientific. Further complicating matters, inspiration historically has been studied in a domain-specific manner, with little communication between researchers across domains. Recognizing the need for a unified, integrated definition of the inspiration construct, Thrash and Elliot ( 2003 , 2004 ) undertook the task of developing a domain-general conceptualization that drew upon the core commonalities across diverse literatures. These efforts have yielded three complementary frameworks for conceptualizing inspiration that focus on different aspects of construct definition: core characteristics, component processes, and the transmission model. In this section, we review these domain-general conceptualizations and then show how they may be applied specifically to the case of inspiration to create.

Tripartite conceptualization

The tripartite conceptualization (Thrash and Elliot, 2003 ) specifies the three core characteristics of the state of inspiration: evocation , transcendence , and approach motivation . Evocation refers to the fact that inspiration is evoked rather than initiated volitionally by the individual. In other words, one does not feel directly responsible for becoming inspired; rather, a stimulus object, such as a person, an idea, or a work of art, evokes and sustains the inspiration episode. During an episode of inspiration, the individual gains awareness of new possibilities that transcend ordinary or mundane concerns. The new awareness is vivid and concrete, and it surpasses the ordinary constraints of willfully generated ideas. Once inspired, the individual experiences a compelling approach motivation to transmit, actualize, or express the new vision. This set of three characteristics is intended to be minimally sufficient to distinguish the state of inspiration from other states.

Component processes

Inspiration may be conceptualized not only in terms of the characteristics of the inspired state, but also in terms of the temporally and functionally distinct processes that compose an episode of inspiration. Thrash and Elliot ( 2004 ) argued that inspiration involves two distinct processes—a relatively passive process that they called being inspired by , and a relatively active process that they called being inspired to . The process of being inspired by involves appreciation of the perceived intrinsic value of a stimulus object, whereas the process of being inspired to involves motivation to actualize or extend the valued qualities to a new object. For example, one might be inspired by a breathtaking sunrise, or by the elegance of a new idea that arrives during an insight or “aha” moment. Thereafter one might be inspired to paint or undertake a new research project. The individual can, at any time, look to (or recall) the evoking stimulus for motivational sustenance. Thrash and Elliot ( 2004 ) further proposed that the process of being inspired by gives rise to the core characteristics of evocation and transcendence, whereas the process of being inspired to gives rise to the core characteristic of approach motivation.

These component processes are posited to be present across diverse manifestations of inspiration. Thrash and Elliot ( 2004 ) asked participants to produce narratives recalling either a time when they were inspired or a baseline experience (control condition). The inspiration narratives spanned topics such as becoming animated by a scientific or artistic insight, discovering one’s calling, being influenced by a role model to succeed or live virtuously, and realizing that greatness is possible in response to an unexpected success. Despite superficial differences in narrative content, the inspiration narratives shared the underlying themes of having one’s eyes opened during an encounter with a person, object, event, or idea (i.e., being inspired “by”), and wishing to express or actualize one’s new vision (i.e., being inspired “to”).

Transmission model

From a less descriptive and more theoretical standpoint, inspiration may be conceptualized in terms of its purpose or function (Thrash and Elliot, 2004 ; Thrash et al., 2010b ). Whereas simpler forms of approach motivation serve the function of movement toward and attainment of desired goal objects (e.g., food or affiliation), inspiration is posited to serve a unique approach function: it motivates the transmission or expression of the newly appreciated qualities of the evoking object (Thrash and Elliot, 2004 ; Thrash et al., 2010b ). Inspiration thus serves the role of a mediator in a statistical sense. For instance, certain virtues that one observes in another person may lead to inspiration, which, in turn, leads the inspired individual to pursue these same virtues in a future self. Similarly, a creative seminal idea may inspire the individual, compelling him or her to bring the idea into fruition in the form of a creative invention, poem, or other tangible product.

Inspiration to create

The general inspiration construct as conceptualized above may be applied straightforwardly to the specific domain of creative activity. From the perspective of the tripartite conceptualization, the general characteristic of transcendence takes the form of creativity— the new or better possibilities are appreciated specifically for their creative potential. Regarding the component process conceptualization, the process of being inspired by is prompted by the emergence of creative ideas in consciousness, often during a moment of insight. Under optimal conditions (e.g., if the idea is actionable, and the person has the capacity for approach motivation), the process of being inspired by gives way to the process of being inspired to , which motivates action. Regarding the transmission model, creative inspiration often takes a specific form of transmission called actualization (Thrash et al., 2010b ), in which one is inspired to bring a creative idea into fruition (i.e., the desirable features of the elicitor are transmitted from a seminal idea to a completed product).

We emphasize that, according to our conceptualization, inspiration is not posited to be the source of creative ideas. Instead, inspiration is a motivational response to creative ideas. Thus inspiration explains the transmission, not the origin, of creativity. This distinction is critical for at least three reasons. First, claiming that creativity comes from inspiration would not aid scientific understanding, much as attributing creativity to a “muse” would be an exercise in labeling a mysterious cause, not a scientific explanation. Second, scientists have already developed a variety of scientific constructs and theories to explain the origins of creative ideas, which include situational, dispositional, self-regulatory, cognitive, historical, and neurological processes (e.g., Koestler, 1964 ; Rothenberg, 1979 ; Martindale, 1990 ; Finke et al., 1992 ; Sternberg and Davidson, 1995 ; Amabile, 1996 ; Feist, 1998 ; Bowden and Jung-Beeman, 2003 ; Simonton, 2003 ; Baas et al., 2013 ). In contrast, scientists have given relatively little attention to the processes through which creative ideas are transformed into creative products. The inspiration construct helps fill this gap in the research literature. Finally, because this conceptualization of creative inspiration is derived from a general conceptualization, it is consistent with usage of the inspiration construct in other literatures. For instance, creative inspiration is a response to (not the cause of) creative ideas, much as interpersonal inspiration is a response to (not the cause of) virtuous qualities in others.

Operationalization

Given the personal nature and elusiveness of the experience of inspiration, how can it possibly be measured in the laboratory? One might be tempted to throw up one’s hands and turn instead to something that is more amenable to direct experimental control.

The value of self-report

We maintain that self-report is a straightforward and appropriate method for operationalizing inspiration, because the inspiration construct is inextricably intertwined with a distinctive phenomenological experience. Numerous creators have claimed—through conscious self-reports—that they experience inspiration and that this experience is critical to their creative process (Harding, 1948 ). Operationalizing inspiration through self-report allows researchers to put such claims to the test.

Thrash and Elliot ( 2003 ) developed a trait measure of inspiration called the Inspiration Scale (IS). Although the term “trait” has a variety of connotations, trait inspiration refers to nothing other than individual differences in the tendency to experience the state of inspiration. Because inspiration is a construct that is meaningful in individuals’ lives but underappreciated by psychologists, the measure was designed to be straightforward and face valid. Items include statements such as, “Something I encounter or experience inspires me” and “I am inspired to do something.” The IS has two internally consistent 4-item subscales: inspiration frequency and intensity. Both subscales are internally consistent, with Cronbach’s αs equal to or greater than 0.90. The two subscales have been demonstrated to be highly correlated ( r = 0.60 to 0.80), and therefore scores may be summed to form an internally consistent 8-item index of overall inspiration. The IS demonstrates measurement invariance across time (2 months) and across populations (patent holders, university alumni), indicating that the underlying latent constructs have comparable meaning at different points in time and in different populations. Two-month test-retest reliabilities for both subscales are high, r = 0.77. In short, the IS has excellent psychometric properties. Notably, the intensity subscale has been adapted for use as a state measure (e.g., Thrash and Elliot, 2004 ; Thrash et al., 2010a ).

Some may worry that self-reported inspiration cannot be trusted, that it is not objective, or that it does not provide a full explanation. We respond to each of these potential limitations. First, inspiration, as assessed with the IS, tends to be unrelated or weakly related to social desirability, and its predictive validity is robust when social desirability is controlled 1 (Thrash and Elliot, 2003 ; Thrash et al., 2010a ). Second, although the IS provides a subjective indicator of inspiration, scores on this measure have been linked to a variety of external criteria and objective outcomes, as reviewed in the following section. Moreover, consciousness plays a critical role in the simulation of future action in humans (Baumeister and Masicampo, 2010 ) and may be necessary for inspired action. Accordingly, conscious self-report is intrinsically appropriate to the construct. Finally, we recognize that self-report measures may leave some researchers with a hunger for lower-level explanations, such as those involving physiological or neurological processes, but we see this as an opportunity rather than a problem—the inspiration construct may see an exciting second generation of research regarding neural underpinnings. In this case, self-reported inspiration provides a “bootstrap” that may guide researchers to underlying process. Although it is true that the self-report method is limited in some ways, it offers a well-validated starting point for neuroscientific investigations. Moreover, not investigating inspiration on the grounds that it is measured by self-report would lead researchers to overlook a critical predictor of creative output, the biological underpinnings of which would remain undiscovered.

The place of inspiration in creativity research paradigms

The field of creativity assessment is active and dynamic, and thus a review of the literature is well beyond the scope of this article (for a review, see Plucker and Makel, 2010 ). We note, however, that the dominant research paradigms used in the study of creativity have unwittingly precluded attention to inspiration. Creativity is most often assessed using tests of creative ideation (e.g., Alternate Uses) or creative insight (e.g., Remote Associates Test). While such tests are very practical in laboratory contexts and allow researchers to focus on the processes underlying the emergence of creative ideas, they do not allow participants to transform creative ideas into creative products. Failure to accommodate the idea actualization process—that is, creation per se— renders inspiration speciously immaterial to the creative process. If the function of inspiration within the context of creativity is the actualization of creative ideas into creative products, useful paradigms must allow for idea actualization. Product-based assessments, such as the Consensual Assessment Technique (CAT; Amabile, 1982 ) and analysis of patent data, are the gold standard if one wishes to investigate the unique contribution of inspiration to the creative process. 2 In fact, relevance to inspiration aside, assessment of creative products is considered by some to be the most appropriate and valid operationalization of creativity (Baer et al., 2004 ; Baer and McKool, 2009 ).

Discriminant validity

Ambiguity about whether inspiration is distinct from other constructs has been another impediment to research activity. If one presumes that inspiration is the same thing as, for example, creativity or insight, then one has no reason to study it. In this section, we clarify the distinctions between inspiration and several other constructs (creativity, insight, and positive affect).

Inspiration and creativity

While there is considerable variability in the definition and usage of the term creativity within psychology (Silvia and Kaufman, 2010 ), there is some degree of consensus that creativity implies two qualities: novelty and usefulness (e.g., Feist, 1998 ; Plucker et al., 2004 ). We find it useful to explicitly conceptualize creativity as an appraisal of novelty and usefulness that may be applied to any of a variety of objects, particularly ideas and resulting products. Depending on the aims of the research, this appraisal may be made by the creator herself, by gatekeepers within a field, by an audience, or through various other operationalizations available to the researcher. We note that researchers often appear to have either ideas or products in mind as the ultimate objects of creativity appraisals, even when the term “creative” precedes other nouns (e.g., creative activity (Simonton, 2000 ), creative insights (Csikszentmihalyi and Sawyer, 1995 ), creative personalities (Feist, 2010 ), creative states (Jamison, 1989 ), or creative processes (Kris, 1952 )).

Although the terms inspiration and creativity have occasionally been used synonymously (e.g., Schuler, 1994 ; Chamorro-Premuzic, 2006 ), our conceptualizations of inspiration and creativity involve a clear delineation. Creativity is an appraisal of novelty and usefulness that may apply (to various degrees) to content at any point in the creative process, from a seminal idea to the completed product. Inspiration, in contrast, is a motivational state. We posit that inspiration is often elicited when a creator appraises his or her idea as creative, and it is posited to motivate actualization of the idea in the form of a product that is likewise appraised (by its creator and perhaps others) as creative. We discuss empirical support for these proposals below.

Inspiration and insight

Conflation of inspiration with insight is common in everyday language. 3 An individual might exclaim, “I had an inspiration,” where “inspiration” refers to the idea itself, not to the motivational response. In the scientific context, the term insight has been used to describe the process by which a problem solver suddenly moves from a state of not knowing how to solve a problem to a state of knowing how to solve it (Mayer, 1992 ). Within the creativity context, insight has also been conceptualized as the cognitive content that enters consciousness suddenly; the “aha!” moment (Csikszentmihalyi and Sawyer, 1995 ). Regardless of its exact usage, insight can be differentiated from inspiration in terms of its theoretical function. Whereas insight research is an attempt to explain the cognitive mechanisms, such as restructuring (Ohlsson, 1984 ), by which ideas enter awareness, inspiration research is an attempt to explain the motivational response that often (but not always) follows creative insight (see Thrash et al., 2010b ).

If inspiration always followed from insight, then perhaps the inspiration construct would be superfluous. However, inspiration does not always follow. Thrash et al. ( 2010b ) found that creative ideation tends to lead to inspiration but that this effect is moderated by individuals’ approach temperament (i.e., sensitivity to reward; Elliot and Thrash, 2010 ). Individuals with a strong approach temperament tend to get inspired to create in response to creative insight, whereas individuals with a weak approach temperament report feeling a lack of inspiration in spite of their insight. Inspiration thus has important implications for the behavioral transmission of a creative insight into a creative product.

Recent work on the phenomenology of insight offers hints about how insight may lead to inspiration. Abrupt changes in processing fluency during insight have been found to endow an individual with elevated levels of positive affect (PA) and perceived truth regarding his or her solution (Topolinski and Reber, 2010 ). Given that PA is involved in both the insight “aha” experience and inspiration, it may facilitate a fluid transition from insight to inspiration. Moreover, perceiving one’s solution as true, a consequence of insight, may bolster inspired motivation. As we have noted, however, insight can occur without inspiration. Dispositional factors of the individual (e.g., low approach temperament) and situational factors (e.g., contexts in which opportunities for transmission are not available) can impede inspiration. Likewise, inspiration can occur outside of the problem-solving context and without a discrete and sudden insight.

Inspiration and positive affect

Activated PA, a high-arousal form of pleasant affect, is the strongest known correlate of inspiration (Thrash and Elliot, 2003 ). Indeed, the term “inspired” appears on the PANAS measure of activated PA (Watson et al., 1988 ). Because activated PA is often present during states of approach motivation (Watson et al., 1999 ), it particularly resembles the inspired to component process.

Although inspiration and activated PA overlap to some degree empirically and conceptually, considerable evidence supports their discriminant validity. First, inspiration and activated PA are factorially distinct (Thrash and Elliot, 2003 ). Second, consistent with the tripartite conceptualization of inspiration, experiences of inspiration involve greater levels of transcendence and lower levels of volitional control and ascriptions of personal responsibility (indicative of “evocation”) compared to experiences of activated PA (Thrash and Elliot, 2004 ). Third, inspiration and activated PA have different proximal and distal antecedents (Thrash and Elliot, 2004 ). Activated PA is triggered proximally by reward salience (environmental cues and perceptions that something desired is attainable) and distally by approach temperament. In contrast, inspiration is triggered proximally by experiences of insight and distally by openness to experience. Finally, inspiration and activated PA have different distributions across days of the week; on Fridays, for instance, activated PA is at its peak while inspiration is at its trough (Thrash, 2007 ).

Inspiration, perspiration, and creativity

Perhaps the most pernicious obstacle to research on inspiration has been the longstanding belief that it is perspiration, and not inspiration, that is critical for creative output. Thomas Edison, regarding his work, once remarked that, “what it boils down to is one per cent inspiration and ninety-nine per cent perspiration” (Edison, 1903 ). This comment has sometimes been offered in support of the idea that effort is important to creativity and that inspiration, by comparison, is unimportant (e.g., Martindale, 1989 , 2001 ; Sawyer, 2006 ). Furthering this line of reasoning, Fehrman and Petherick ( 1980 ) offered an account of why inspiration nonetheless endures as a folk explanation of creativity: when individuals are exposed to creative works, they misattribute creators’ effort to inspiration, unaware how much effort was required to produce the work. It appears that reasoning such as this has precluded attention to a legitimate role of inspiration in the creative process.

Empirical data related to inspiration, perspiration, and creativity are now available for consideration. A number of studies indicates that inspiration is a robust predictor of creativity. At the between-person (i.e., trait) level, inspiration and creative self-concept are positively correlated, and inspiration predicts longitudinal increases in creative self-concept (Thrash and Elliot, 2003 ). Trait inspiration also predicts objective indicators of creative output. In a sample of U.S. patent holders, inspiration frequency was found to predict the number of patents held (Thrash and Elliot, 2003 ). Inspiration also predicts creativity at the within-person level, such that inspiration and self-reported creativity fluctuate together across days (Thrash and Elliot, 2003 ).

In three studies of different types of writing (poetry, science, and fiction), self-reported state inspiration during the writing process uniquely predicted creativity of the final product, as assessed by expert judges using the CAT (Thrash et al., 2010b ). These findings held when a variety of covariates (e.g., openness to experience, effort, activated PA, awe) were controlled. Finally, inspiration has been shown to mediate between the creativity of seminal ideas and the creativity of final products in a manner consistent with the posited transmission function 4 of inspiration (Thrash et al., 2010b ). Covariates of inspiration (effort, activated PA, awe) failed to mediate transmission, indicating that the transmission function is unique to inspiration.

Having established a relation between inspiration and creativity, we now consider the role of “perspiration” in the creative process. Notably, Thrash et al. ( 2010b ) documented a positive relation, rather than a negative relation, between inspiration and effort, indicating that these constructs are not mutually exclusive as the Edison quote may imply. The assumption that the presence of effort indicates low levels of inspiration is further challenged by a positive relation between inspiration and the work-mastery component of need for achievement (Thrash and Elliot, 2003 ). Both of these findings were documented at two statistically independent levels of analysis (between-persons, within-persons).

Certainly effort is important to the creative process, but its role is different than that of inspiration. Whereas writers’ inspiration predicts the creativity of the product, writers’ effort predicts the technical merit of the product (Thrash et al., 2010b ). Thus inspiration and effort are unique predictors of different aspects of product quality. Moreover, screen capture data indicate that inspiration is involved in the automatic/generative aspects of the writing process (e.g., inspired writers produce more words and retain more of their original typing), whereas effort is related to controlled self-regulation (e.g., writers who exert effort delete more words and pause more to think; Thrash et al., 2010b ). In short, inspiration and “perspiration” are not mutually exclusive, and they contribute in qualitatively different ways to the creative process and product.

The question of whether the audience correctly infers the presence of inspiration remains. The misattribution hypothesis states that it is the creator’s effort that predicts the creativity of the product but that the audience incorrectly attributes this creativity to inspiration in the creator. An alternative to this model is the possibility that the audience correctly infers inspiration (Bowra, 1977 ). Thrash et al. ( 2010b ) tested these competing hypotheses. Readers were found to correctly attribute creativity to writers’ inspiration; likewise, they correctly attributed technical merit to writers’ effort. These results, in addition to providing the first empirical evidence that readers can make veridical inferences about writers’ motivational states, indicate that folk notions of the importance of inspiration are borne out by empirical data.

The psychological science of inspiration, as well as its relation to creativity, is now well-established. Inspiration has been conceptualized through integration of usages in diverse literatures, operationalized using a well-validated measure, discriminated from related constructs, and linked to creativity in multiple populations, contexts, and levels of analysis. Prior work provides a solid foundation on which investigations into the neuroscience of inspiration can rest.

Inspiration in the neuroscience laboratory

In most respects, the challenges associated with studying creative inspiration are similar regardless of whether one approaches the topic as a neuroscientist, a psychologist, etc. Therefore, the preceding general challenges and solutions are also relevant specifically in the neuroscience context. However, we reiterate the importance of attending carefully to construct definition, because the term “inspiration” has occasionally been used in the neuroscience literature to refer to constructs that are quite different than the inspiration construct that we have discussed. In their classic EEG studies of the creative process, for instance, Martindale and Hasenfus ( 1978 ) used the terms inspiration and elaboration to refer to the stages that precede and follow, respectively, creative insight (see Kris, 1952 , for a precedent for such usage in psychoanalysis). Inspiration as we have defined it—i.e., as a conscious motivational state rather than as a stage—is more likely to occur during Martindale and Hasenfus’s elaboration stage than during the inspiration stage. We now turn to challenges that are particularly relevant within a neuroscience context.

One obstacle in studying inspiration in the laboratory is the impossibility of direct manipulation through exposure to exogenous elicitors. If one seeks to elicit inspiration through use of some kind of “inspiring” stimulus, then the manipulated elicitor is the independent variable and inspiration is a dependent variable. Thus caution is needed regarding causal inference, despite use of the experimental method (Thrash et al., 2010a ). Although inspiration cannot be directly manipulated through exposure to exogenous stimuli, a researcher may build a case for causality using manipulation of elicitors in combination with statistical controls and cross-lagged analyses, as demonstrated by Thrash et al. ( 2010a ). We note that these problems are not unique to the study of inspiration. Emotions, insight, and many other constructs elude strict experimental control; at best, they may be “elicited” rather than “manipulated”.

A related challenge is that it may be difficult to capture authentic or intense experiences of inspiration in a laboratory setting, given that inspiration is elusive for certain individuals or under certain circumstances. One solution may be to, in effect, lower the threshold for what constitutes an episode of inspiration. Thrash and Elliot ( 2004 ), for instance, studied “daily inspiration” using experience sampling methods, and we suggest that such tolerance for less intense manifestations of inspiration can be extended to a laboratory study. Much as creativity is not the same thing as genius (Bruner, 1962 ), inspiration is a matter of degree, and moderate levels might be achievable even in some invasive neuroscience paradigms.

A third challenge is the need for repeatable trials and time-locking. Brain imaging techniques (e.g., fMRI, EEG, MEG) require designs in which the mental event under consideration may be (a) temporally isolated so that the recorded data and the mental event can be time-locked to an eliciting stimulus and (b) elicited repeatedly during a recording session in order to improve the signal-to-noise ratio (Dickter and Kieffaber, 2013 ). One possible method to address these requirements is to use participant self-report (indicating the onset of inspiration) as the time-locking event. Suppose, for example, participants invent captions for each of a series of photographs (a highly-repeatable activity) and report on levels of inspiration at the moment of getting an idea for each caption. Bowden and Jung-Beeman ( 2007 ) used a method similar to this in order to identify processes that distinguish solutions involving the experience of insight from those that do not. We caution, however, that inspiration generally is more prolonged in time than is insight (particularly when considerable activity is needed to actualize an idea), and therefore methods that capture subsequent variability in inspiration across time—not just the level of inspiration at the moment of insight—will be particularly valuable.

One such method for capturing variability in inspiration across time, while simultaneously reducing the burden of eliciting inspiration repeatedly, is to record electrical brain activity using a non-invasive technique (such as EEG) during the creative process. For instance, if researchers record screen capture data during the writing process as in Thrash et al. ( 2010b ), they can subsequently play back the recording to participants and collect continuous measures of recalled inspiration during the creative process (e.g., using a dial or slider input device). These ebbs and flows of inspiration can then be linked to variability in neural processes.

The difficulties associated with eliciting inspiration in order to study it at the within-person level may also be addressed by simply focusing on the individuals who are likely to be inspired (i.e., those who are high in trait inspiration). Elicitation may be circumvented altogether by examining structural brain differences between groups known to be high versus low in trait inspiration. One may separate groups into “more inspired” and “less inspired” using the IS. Additionally, as individuals higher in trait inspiration tend to exhibit greater levels of openness and extraversion, one might expect, for example, reduced latent inhibition and increased activity in the ventral tegmental area dopamine projections (Ashby et al., 1999 ; Depue and Collins, 1999 ; Peterson et al., 2002 ) for these individuals. Thus, inspiration’s nomological network can serve as an informative starting point for between-person neurological analyses.

Next, we consider the question of where to look in the nervous system. While at present there is no neuroscience of the inspiration construct per se , literatures on related constructs can offer us some hints.

Insight relates to inspiration within the tripartite conceptualization in terms of both evocation and transcendence, and within the component processes model as the initial event that often leads one to become inspired by . During “Aha!” moments, one transcends a mental set and experiences a conceptual expansion (Abraham et al., 2012 ), and the experience feels automatic and unexpected; it feels evoked (Bowden et al., 2005 ). Therefore, certain neural components involved in insight experiences may be present at the onset of an inspiration episode. However, given that the literature on the neural correlates of insight is complex and that neural processes are under debate (Dietrich and Kanso, 2010 ), we caution against relying too heavily upon any one finding in guiding work on inspiration.

As inspiration involves not only transcendence and evocation, but also approach motivation, we may also look to the neuroscience literature on states of approach motivation (Elliot, 2008 ). There exists a burgeoning literature on approach motivation and appetitive affect, with attention to underlying neuronal circuitry (e.g., Bradley et al., 2001 ; Aron et al., 2005 ; Junghöfer et al., 2010 ), subcortical reward systems (e.g., Rosenkranz and Grace, 2002 ; Wise, 2004 ; Alcaro et al., 2007 ), neurotransmitters (e.g., Bassareo et al., 2002 ; Hoebel et al., 2008 ), and neurohormones (e.g., Frye and Lacey, 2001 ; Frye and Seliga, 2003 ; Frye, 2007 ). Findings in this area may offer suggestions for the neural underpinnings of the inspired to process.

Although the neurological findings regarding certain aspects of the inspiration construct can offer clues, the neural components of these pieces alone are unlikely to tell the full story. After all, we have already argued above that inspiration is not the same thing as insight or activated PA, nor is it the sum of these parts. For instance, an individual could be in an appetitive motivational state at the same time that he or she gets a creative insight, but he or she would not be inspired if the appetitive state reflects anticipation of eating, rather than of bringing the idea into fruition. The evoking object, in this case, the insight, does not meaningfully relate to the motivational object. The critical question for neuroscience is how processes related to generation of creative ideas recruit appetitive motivational processes, such that individuals respond to creative ideas not with indifference, but rather with a feeling of being compelled to act. How exactly does the prospect of turning a morsel into a dish fire the soul, as Mozart put it (in the opening quotation)?

In the initial stages of research on the neurological basis of inspiration, it may be useful to begin with a focus on overall inspiration instead of particular aspects or component processes. Inspiration as a unified concept can be measured quite efficiently using the 4-item intensity subscale of the IS (Thrash and Elliot, 2004 ). If necessary, inspiration could be assessed with a single item from the IS. Such items are surprisingly effective at capturing the full inspiration construct as we have defined it (Thrash et al., 2010b ).

Writers, artists, and other creators have long argued that inspiration is a key motivator of creativity. Over the past decade, scientists have tested and found strong support for these claims. Scientific progress has required overcoming a number of challenges, including definitional ambiguity, difficulties of operationalization, ambiguities about discriminant validity, and skepticism about the importance of inspiration relative to perspiration. By developing an integrative conceptualization, operationalizing inspiration with the IS, establishing discriminant validity, and addressing skepticism with empirical evidence, these challenges have been largely overcome. Although additional challenges face the neuroscientist who wishes to study inspiration, similar challenges have already been overcome in relation to insight and other constructs. We believe that the stage has been set for a rigorous neuroscience of inspiration.

Brain-level explanations of an inspiration episode can then be integrated with explanations at other levels of analysis to produce a richer and more holistic understanding of inspiration. This deeper understanding will aid in determining how and why individuals sometimes feel (or do not feel) compelled to act on their creative ideas. Inspiration has the power to effect change not just for individuals, but also for societies. Technological advancements, cures for diseases, and solutions to environmental problems first emerge as promising ideas. It is difficult to overstate the importance of figuring out why, how, and for whom creative ideas to societal problems fire the soul and inspire the idea actualization process.

Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

Acknowledgments

This material is based on work supported by the National Science Foundation under Grant Number SBE-0830366, Science of Science and Innovation Policy.

1 In these instances, social desirability was assessed using either the Marlowe-Crowne Social Desirability Scale (Crowne and Marlow, 1960 ) or the Paulhus Deception Scales (Paulhus, 1998 ).

2 We note that the Consensual Assessment Technique has also been used to assess the creativity of ideas (e.g., Faure, 2004 ). Here, we refer specifically to the use of this technique in assessing the creativity of products.

3 The language of the items and response options of the Inspiration Scale (IS) eliminate this problem by clearly using the term “inspiration” to mean a state, not a cognition or idea.

4 The authors empirically tested the transmission model , which specifies that inspiration mediates the relation between the creativity of the seminal idea and the creativity of the product. Two alternate theoretical models, the epiphenomenon model and the self-perception model , which suggest that creativity of the idea influences both inspiration and creativity of the product, or that creativity of the idea influences creativity of the product which in turn influences reports of inspiration, respectively, were also tested using structural equation modeling. The authors found support for the transmission model of inspiration over the epiphenomenon and self-perception models.

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5 Sure sources of ideas for creative writing

Among the gamut of creative writing topics and theories, there is an entire ocean of consensus (way beyond the school of thought) that believes that inspiration for a writer is overrated. Across the border, the very talented H.M.Naqvi, author of “Homeboy” and winner of the first DSC Prize for South Asian Literature, famously mentioned in an interview to Express Tribune (dated 9th September 2012) that, “ Inspiration is whimsical. But, inspiration doesn’t get books written. You have to sit down every day and work like a carpenter. ” So, let’s break down the ‘I’ word. Inspiration (n) – being mentally stimulated to indulge in a creative pursuit Or a Writer’s definition (on some days); we’ll call this the other one Inspiration (n) – the cumulative desertion of all creative muses* leaving the writer in the lurch So you’d agree, there are days when you encounter the other one , a tool-less-carpenter feeling, if you please. So what do you do? Here are five (tried and tested) sources of ideas that never fail:

1. PEOPLE can inspire creative writing

Did you know that Shrek’s appearance was inspired by a wrestler called Maurice Tillet? And, Sherlock Holmes was inspired by Arthur Conan Doyle’s employer (he was the latter’s clerk), Joseph Bell. Most writers are self-confessed people-watchers. They observe mannerisms, speech styles, clothing; they survey the presence of little accessories (zodiac ring, moonstone pendant, evil-eye warding pendant) and they sometimes take in a defining feature (eg: sharp nose, pronounced jaw line). And well, those are ideas to add layers to your character. Your characters develop during and over the creative writing process. So, look around you – the man with a large wart on his face, the lady in a voile saree running to catch that bus or the solemn-looking lady in the cramped ladies compartment with the frown-lines. Pick an element of what you see and tweak it to fit your character. For instance, the protagonist in my novel has six fingers on her right hand. She constantly fidgets with this when she is nervous (and I have given her enough reason to be) and this fidgeting repeats itself, giving her a defining characteristic. Of course, I had observed that one of the fruit vendors I buy fruit from had six fingers in her right hand. Word of caution: Observe, don’t stare! And, each person carries with them their own unique problem. Those are ideas too. But, you have to be careful when writing about other people’s problems. You either need to seek permission or rehash it completely and give it a new twist.

2. CONVERSATIONS can trigger creative writing

Eavesdrop. Okay, I need to make a point (another one): This is not a one-stop joint for border-line perverse social interactions. This really is a source of great ideas. What would you think if you heard random snippets of conversation without context? Like these: “My grandfather is only 41!” “She is not modern, she is not traditional also. She is, what to say, that intelligent-boring kind.” “The broom caught fire first” (Firebolt, anyone?) “My mother says she hates my grandmother but I have to love her” (Note: These are actual conversations I’ve heard. They dutifully went into my journal) Well, you could use these in a scene. Send your protagonist on a mummy-papa arranged rendez-vous with a lady before he meets (your other character) his lady love. Let the rendez-vous lady be the not modern, not traditional, intelligent-boring girl. Voila, there’s a scene.

3. THINGS that can generate writing ideas

Have you ever cleaned out a shelf after years (of nagging?)? Did you look at something, disfigured beyond recognition and say, “What is the hell was that?” That, my friend, is an idea. Your character could find the clichéd withered rose in a book of poetry or your badmash ten-year-old character could find the corpse of a spider in a locket. Look for things that your character could carry or possess – old coins, gadgets, a pile of dog-eared visiting cards (travelling salesman?), photographs of a pet, a suicide note. Write about it. Describe it: what’s it made of, how many, how new or old, is it dear to your character and why. These little nuggets enhance the reading process.

4. EVENTS can be great sources of inspiration

Ah, these are the hot-beds of ideas for creative writing topics. The cultural context, the setting, the world your character belongs to. Did that ‘big thing’ you’ve been writing about (the thing that happened to your main character) happen at the resident’s association annual gala or at the monthly Post-Masters’ Grievance Redressal Gathering? Did it happen at your chachi’s baby shower or your best-friends’ brother’s wedding outside the registrar’s office? At the general body elections of the Breed-Dog owners club or… you get the idea. Think weddings, social gatherings (whatever maybe the excuse or give them one), religious functions, atheists and agnostics lecture group – whatever. Look around you, there are plenty of events to choose from.

5. PLACES can take your creative writing, er, places

So you don’t know what happens next. Write about where things are happening. In one room chawls or beautiful archetypal white bungalows with curvy domes. On the sidewalks, beside a busy vada-pao stall or in brothel houses (every book worth its cover price has a character of a prostitute; I think of the 500-year-old prostitute in Midnight’s Children as I write this ) Walk around your neighborhood you’ll find a treasure trove of place-ideas: Angel Tailors, Super Fun-zone (they sell cool drinks, guys), Aroma Restaurant, A1 Saloon, Spice and Nice (they sell chicken) Get your characters to meet in the nook behind Aroma Restaurant after he has had his monthly hair-cut and maalish from A1 Saloon. Your readers will love it. (An aside: These are nuances that add the fluff around the story. Sometimes you might get an entire story out of an event that you’ve been privy to but these cannot be the entire story. These are sources of ideas to help you write a better book. You still need a strong book idea in the first place in terms of a plot – the raison d’être, if you please) *(n), plural, a source of artistic inspiration

1 thought on “5 Sure sources of ideas for creative writing”

I have written a novel in romantic genre but have not been accepted by any agent or publisher. Writing a synopsis which will attract the interest of a publisher is difficult because love stories are so common and my story synopsis is not modern. it involves family, arranged marriage and tradition to a large extent. I am losing hope although I do plan to keep trying without stopping. Of course, your advice is encouraging but I would like to know if writing a blurb in the Query letter is ok? or it has to be separately mentioned? Hope you can guide me as a have approached agents and was rejected by them so i am going after publishers now? Is it a bad idea to re-approach those same agents with a differently written synopsis.??

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Estelle Erasmus

How to Resist the Temptation of AI When Writing

Whether you're a student, a journalist, or a business professional, knowing how to do high-quality research and writing using trustworthy data and sources, without giving in to the temptation of AI or ChatGPT , is a skill worth developing.

As I detail in my book Writing That Gets Noticed , locating credible databases and sources and accurately vetting information can be the difference between turning a story around quickly or getting stuck with outdated information.

For example, several years ago the editor of Parents.com asked for a hot-take reaction to country singer Carrie Underwood saying that, because she was 35, she had missed her chance at having another baby. Since I had written about getting pregnant in my forties, I knew that as long as I updated my facts and figures, and included supportive and relevant peer-reviewed research, I could pull off this story. And I did.

The story ran later that day , and it led to other assignments. Here are some tips I’ve learned that you should consider mastering before you turn to automated tools like generative AI to handle your writing work for you.

Identify experts, peer-reviewed research study authors, and sources who can speak with authority—and ideally, offer easily understood sound bites or statistics on the topic of your work. Great sources include professors at major universities and media spokespeople at associations and organizations.

For example, writer and author William Dameron pinned his recent essay in HuffPost Personal around a statistic from the American Heart Association on how LGBTQ people experience higher rates of heart disease based on discrimination. Although he first found the link in a secondary source (an article in The New York Times ), he made sure that he checked the primary source: the original study that the American Heart Association gleaned the statistic from. He verified the information, as should any writer, because anytime a statistic is cited in a secondary source, errors can be introduced.

Jen Malia, author of  The Infinity Rainbow Club  series of children’s books (whom I recently interviewed on my podcast ), recently wrote a piece about dinosaur-bone hunting for Business Insider , which she covers in her book Violet and the Jurassic Land Exhibit.

After a visit to the Carnegie Museum of Natural History in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Malia, whose books are set in Philadelphia, found multiple resources online and on the museum site that gave her the history of the Bone Wars , information on the exhibits she saw, and the scientific names of the dinosaurs she was inspired by. She also used the Library of Congress’ website, which offers digital collections and links to the Library of Congress Newspaper Collection.

Malia is a fan of searching for additional resources and citable documents with Google Scholar . “If I find that a secondary source mentions a newspaper article, I’m going to go to the original newspaper article, instead of just stopping there and quoting,” she says.

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Your local public library is a great source of free information, journals, and databases (even ones that generally require a subscription and include embargoed research). For example, your search should include everything from health databases ( Sage Journals , Scopus , PubMed) to databases for academic sources and journalism ( American Periodical Series Online , Statista , Academic Search Premier ) and databases for news, trends, market research, and polls (t he Harris Poll , Pew Research Center , Newsbank , ProPublica ).

Even if you find a study or paper that you can’t access in one of those databases, consider reaching out to the study’s lead author or researcher. In many cases, they’re happy to discuss their work and may even share the study with you directly and offer to talk about their research.

For journalist Paulette Perhach’s article on ADHD in The New York Times, she used Epic Research to see “dual team studies.” That's when two independent teams address the same topic or question, and ideally come to the same conclusions. She recommends locating research and experts via key associations for your topic. She also likes searching via Google Scholar but advises filtering it for studies and research in recent years to avoid using old data. She suggests keeping your links and research organized. “Always be ready to be peer-reviewed yourself,” Perhach says.

When you are looking for information for a story or project, you might be inclined to start with a regular Google search. But keep in mind that the internet is full of false information, and websites that look trustworthy can sometimes turn out to be businesses or companies with a vested interest in you taking their word as objective fact without additional scrutiny. Regardless of your writing project, unreliable or biased sources are a great way to torpedo your work—and any hope of future work.

Author Bobbi Rebell researched her book Launching Financial Grownups using the IRS’ website . “I might say that you can contribute a certain amount to a 401K, but it might be outdated because those numbers are always changing, and it’s important to be accurate,” she says. “AI and ChatGPT can be great for idea generation,” says Rebell, “but you have to be careful. If you are using an article someone was quoted in, you don’t know if they were misquoted or quoted out of context.”

If you use AI and ChatGPT for sourcing, you not only risk introducing errors, you risk introducing plagiarism—there is a reason OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, is being sued for downloading information from all those books.

Audrey Clare Farley, who writes historical nonfiction, has used a plethora of sites for historical research, including Women Also Know History , which allows searches by expertise or area of study, and JSTOR , a digital library database that offers a number of free downloads a month. She also uses Chronicling America , a project from the Library of Congress which gathers old newspapers to show how a historical event was reported, and Newspapers.com (which you can access via free trial but requires a subscription after seven days).

When it comes to finding experts, Farley cautions against choosing the loudest voices on social media platforms. “They might not necessarily be the most authoritative. I vet them by checking if they have a history of publication on the topic, and/or educational credentials.”

When vetting an expert, look for these red flags:

• You can’t find their work published or cited anywhere.
• They were published in an obscure journal.
• Their research is funded by a company, not a university, or they are the spokesperson for the company they are doing research for. (This makes them a public relations vehicle and not an appropriate source for journalism.)

And finally, the best endings for virtually any writing, whether it’s an essay, a research paper, an academic report, or a piece of investigative journalism, circle back to the beginning of the piece, and show your reader the transformation or the journey the piece has presented in perspective.

As always, your goal should be strong writing supported by research that makes an impact without cutting corners. Only then can you explore tools that might make the job a little easier, for instance by generating subheads or discovering a concept you might be missing—because then you'll have the experience and skills to see whether it's harming or helping your work.

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