Lately, it’s gotten harder and harder for me to write. My muse has definitely left the building. Yet I know if I want to sustain a career as a writer, I need to be able to write even when I don’t feel like it. Even when I don’t feel inspired. I’m constantly reminded of what Nora says–that writing is hard work and the only way to be a writer is to sit one’s butt down in a chair and put words on the page. So I’m trying to remember that, while at the same time trying to encourage my muse to come out and play.
One thing I’m experimenting with is moving my writing space. I’ve always written at home or at places like Starbucks, yet lately neither place is working. I get too distracted by other things I need to do at home, or by how loud or cold it is at Starbucks. Someone suggested I need a separate office space to write, so I can truly treat my writing as a business. So I’m trying out a space (a friend of mine only uses her space part-time so is letting me write there the other days). The first day wasn’t terribly productive but I can still see the possibilities. If I make the plunge, here’s a space I have my eye on.
Still, a part of me keeps thinking writing at home or at Starbucks should be good enough. And if I rent a space, won’t I feel more pressured to write that much more? Like I’m already behind the eight ball and just need to earn more money as a result?
What do you think? And what do you do when your muse goes into hiding?
Virna, I hope your muse comes back soon. When this happens to me, it’s because I need more *mental* space. I have to regroup and recharge. Spending time outside and with friends helps. Lots of reading, activities and movies. Anything to get me out of my head and away from everyday stressors.
The space above looks bright and full of sunshine! Good luck!
Sounds like great advice, Misty. Thanks so much!
Try to figure out why the usual places are not working…. maybe try a public library?
Great idea, and I’ve tried the library! Sometimes it does work.
Virna, I changed genres and love what I’m writing now, which makes a difference. But I also realized I’ve gotten into the bad habit of sitting down at my computer and NOT WRITING. Everything else is first. Now I set a 2-hour minimum a day of either writing or revising. Usually I write longer than the two hours.
Good luck! I hope your writing Mojo comes back.
Thank you, Edie!! I’m often in front of my computer and not writing, too. Good to remember…
I hope you are able to let the writing flow soon, Virna! I have tried starting a blog several times but realize I just can’t write, so I am so amazed by all of you authors who can whip out stories. I’ll pray that your muse comes out of hiding quickly!
Thank you, Amy!
Good luck with luring your muse back. Surprisingly, I find working at an airport (while waiting for a flight … usually to a conference) is very productive for me. Maybe its the buzz of energy in the air … whatever. By the same token, working early in the morning (when I can force myself to drag my sorry butt out of bed early) when its perfectly quiet is also a really productive time for me.
I agree, Liz. It just depends on my mood, but the buzz of energy can definitely be a nice background noise.
Oh, I hope your muse comes back soon! Sometimes, you just need to take a break and try something completely different. When I get stumped, I just give myself permission to let go–I write in a different genre, write something totally just to make me happy. When I’m happy, my muse is happy, too.
Cynthia Eden`s last blog was …ANGEL IN CHAINS
Great advice, Cynthia. Thank you!
Virna, hugs! When I feel ‘flat’ I read. As much as possible. Somehow, reading other stories, either great or a bit meh, get my mind back in the writing zone. As for places to write. I hear you! I have a great office at home, but I sometimes take my chair out into the garden, or to the couch, just for a change of scene. I’m going to try the library one day, but I don’t know how well it will work for me.