7 Ways to Get Creativity Flowing Again

There is nothing more frustrating as a writer than when your subscription to Fictional Creativity Weekly expires without any warning.

Creativity is arguably one of the most important traits an author possesses in his or her tool bag. I mean, let’s face it. Where would all the great novels of our time be if their writers lacked the creativity it took to write them?

Today, I’m going to share with you seven ways to get those creative juices flowing again.

#1—Reintroduce yourself with your story

I like to incorporate this into my writing routine as it is, but this is a great way to get those ideas flowing again.

Get out your notebook, word doc, or wherever you keep all your ideas and thoughts and brain vomits for your story, and read through it. All of it.

You might be surprised at how well this works. Oftentimes when I go through old notes and thoughts, I find all sorts of elements and threads I’d completely forgotten about. A scene I’d envisioned that I couldn’t wait to write, a small nod I wanted to incorporate, an entire thread that needed to make an appearance, you name it, I probably forgot it. 😂

To go along with this one, it might help to go back and read what you’ve written leading up to where you are. Be that the previous few paragraphs or several chapters. You might be surprised at how many ideas start coming just by doing this.

#2—Make a collage

This is by far one of my absolute favorite ways to get into the mood of a story. You can make a Pintrest board, a collage on Canva, any format that works the best for you. I like doing one for the main character, then one for the general aesthetic of the book, and maybe even some for different locations. Being a very visual person, this method is incredibly helpful. (It also helps your descriptions too. 😉)

#3—Change the weather

Sound too easy? Trust me, it’s not. 😂

Believe it or not, simply throwing a wrench in the weather forecast of your current scene (or multiple scenes) can do loads for your book. Is it a perfectly sunny day? I predict a heavy rain shower. Are those heavy clouds on the horizon? Make sure it’s too windy even for Mary Poppins.

Not convinced? Go give it a try. I’ll wait here.

#4—Go on a walk

Studies have shown that going on a walk—be it on a treadmill or your local walk path—can raise creativity by sixty percent. Hey, I’ll take any excuse to get out of the house and get some fresh air and sunshine. And if it helps me focus? That’s a win-win in my book!

#5—Create a music playlist

Right next to collages and boards, music is one of my favorite ways to get into that writing. Put together some of your favorite songs, particularly the ones that remind you of your book or certain characters, and listen to it when you work on your book. Soon enough, your brain will recognize that song or songs and instantly snap into the writing mood.

And if you’re more of an ambience/instrumental person, never fear! I’ve compiled some of my favorite playlists for a wide variety of feels and genres. You can find those here! 😊

#6—Be creative in something non-writing related

Sometimes, your brain just needs a break. And that’s okay! Just because you're a writer does not mean your only hobbies have to be writing related. Far from it! Break out that needlepoint or crochet. Go work in the garden. Sketch or journal. Let your brain be creative in another outlet. I guarantee you it’ll thank you.

#7—Be Still

Last but not least, take some time to be still.

We live in a fast-paced, instant gratification kind of world. When was the last time you stopped and really took the time to be . . . still? When was the last time you prayed over your writing? Invited God to be a part of your creative process?

If you haven’t, I encourage you to do so. God will give you the words you need to write this book.

And there you have it! My seven tips for getting back into the realm of creativity. Have you tried any of these methods? Do you know of one I missed? What’s your way of coping with creativity taking a hike? I’d love to know!

Catch ya on the flip side!

_Mac 🤎