5 Ways to Reignite Your Inspiration for Writing
Every writer knows the thrill of starting a new project. The ideas flow effortlessly, and your vision seems so vivid that it feels like nothing can stop you. But then, it happens. The excitement fades, your mind goes blank, and even the thought of sitting down to write feels exhausting. That is inspiration burnout, and it’s a roadblock that almost every writer faces.
Inspiration burnout is more common than many writers realise. According to a 2020 study by the Authors Guild, approximately 60% of writers report experiencing creative blocks or burnout during the writing process. This number is even higher for aspiring authors, with nearly 70% admitting that burnout stalled their progress on a significant project.
Burnout doesn’t discriminate between seasoned authors and first-time writers—it’s a universal challenge. The difference lies in how individuals navigate it.
But here’s the good news: burnout doesn’t mean your creativity is gone forever. It’s just a temporary lull, and there are ways to reignite your passion for writing. If you’re feeling stuck, here are some proven strategies to help you get back on track.
1. Step Away to Recharge
When you hit a wall, stepping back can feel counterintuitive. But sometimes, the most productive thing you can do is take a break. Writing is a creative process; creativity thrives when it’s given room to breathe. I’m taking some time out with friends just this weekend; it should be just what I need to get my head back in the writing game next week.
- Read for inspiration: Pick up a book in your favourite genre or explore something new. Seeing how others craft their work can remind you of why you wanted to help people with your words in the first place.
- Engage in other creative outlets: Painting, cooking, photography—exploring different forms of creativity can recharge your mind.
- Spend time in nature: A quiet walk in the park, a hike, or even sitting in your garden can provide the mental clarity and peace you need. I’m fortunate that we live right on the river and can get straight into nature. I don’t make as much use of it as I should!
J.K. Rowling famously shared that some of her best ideas for Harry Potter came during long walks through the countryside. The fresh air and change of scenery helped her visualise iconic scenes that later became pivotal in her books.
2. Change Your Writing Environment
Where and how you write can significantly impact your inspiration. If your usual writing space feels stale or you’re crowded with admin tasks looming over you, it might be time to switch things up.
- Find a new location: Write in a café, library, park, or anywhere that offers a change of pace. Sometimes, a new backdrop can spark fresh ideas. Couple it with a walk there, and you may just be on fire.
- Adjust your schedule: If you typically write at night but feel drained, try writing first thing in the morning when your mind is fresh—or vice versa. I recently discussed doing an energy journal to help identify the time of the day when your creativity is most productive.
- Change your medium: If you usually type, try handwriting in a notebook or dictating your thoughts into a voice recorder. The shift in process can unlock creativity in unexpected ways. By voice recording, you are not waiting for your hands to catch up with you, and you may find it easier to free-flow your thoughts and ideas.
3. Set Smaller, Achievable Goals
Inspiration burnout often stems from overwhelm. Focusing solely on finishing your entire book can make the task seem impossible. Breaking it into smaller, more manageable chunks can make a huge difference.
- Write one paragraph or: Instead of tackling an entire chapter, commit to just a single paragraph or scene. Progress, no matter how small, builds momentum.
- Set daily word count goals: Even 300 words a day adds up to a full book over time.
- Use writing prompts: Prompts are an excellent way to get unstuck. They nudge your brain in new directions and help you start writing without overthinking.
“The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” – Lao Tzu
4. Reconnect with Your "Why"
When burnout strikes, it’s easy to forget why you started writing in the first place. Taking a moment to reflect on your purpose can help you push past the block.
- Ask yourself, Why am I writing this book? Is it to share your story, help others, or fulfil a personal dream?
- Visualise the impact your book might have on readers. Imagine someone being inspired, comforted, or entertained by your words.
- Write down your motivation and keep it visible on your desk, phone, or planner as a daily reminder of your goals.
Maya Angelou, who often faced self-doubt, overcame her blocks by focusing on the stories she wanted to tell and the people who needed to hear them.
5. Explore New Creative Exercises
Sometimes, stepping away from your main project and trying something new can reignite your creativity.
- Freewrite for 10 minutes: Let your thoughts flow without judgement or editing. This exercise often leads to unexpected ideas.
- Ask “what if” questions: For example,
“What if I framed my story as a letter to my past or future self?”
“What if I approached this topic from an unexpected angle (e.g., a beginner’s mindset or a contrarian view)?”
“What if I stripped away all context—how would I explain this to a child?”
“What if I approached this topic from an unexpected angle (e.g., a beginner’s mindset or a contrarian view)?”
If in doubt, ask Chat GPT to come up with some “what if” questions for your topic area and go from there.
- Write something completely different: A poem, a letter to a role model, or even a short story unrelated to your current project. It can help you rediscover the joy of writing.
“Creativity is intelligence having fun.” – Albert Einstein
Inspiration is Just a Step Away
Burnout doesn’t mean you’re not a good writer—it’s simply a sign that you need to reset. Writing isn’t always about being inspired; it’s about showing up, even when it’s hard. By stepping away, changing your approach, setting achievable goals, and reconnecting with your purpose, you can reignite the passion that first drew you to writing.
Takeaway: Burnout happens to everyone, but it doesn’t have to stop you. The key is finding what works for you and taking small, intentional steps to move forward.
Your turn: What’s one thing you can do today to reignite your inspiration? Try it, and let the words flow! Come and let us know what you’ve tried.
If you need some help with reigniting your inspiration, feel free to reach out to me for support.