As a writer, I know all about creativity. I know how essential it is. I know how fun it can be. I also know what it’s like to be at a loss for creativity. Even as a mom, creativity is important. Combine the needed creativity for being both a mom and a writer . . . well, it’s tough to come by.
When there are people and paperwork and piles to manage . . .
When I look around my house and see the walls that need to be painted and the cupboards that should be organized . . .
When my inbox is cluttered with notes I need to answer about work stuff and volunteer stuff . . .
When output is more than input . . .
. . . my creativity well often runs dry.
What can you do when you need an extra “spark” of inspiration? Here are a few things I do.
Call a funny friend.
Sit outside. Breathe in fresh air. Listen to birds sing. Watch busy ants.
Open a book of poetry, or rent an audio book of poetry from the library. Absorb the symbolism and fresh word combinations.
Open a cookbook to a random page, then go shopping for the needed ingredients. (And then cook it!)
Go to YouTube.com and watch old dance numbers like this one.
Visit Etsy and take their taste test. This is one of my favorites. I love the fresh colors, textures, and ideas.
Play with Visuwords. Follow word trails and see where they lead you.
Have a visual feast and iStock Photo. (It’s also a great place for gathering inspiration for novel settings and characters or blog ideas.)
Pray and thank God for His creativity. Thank Him for your favorite places, people, tastes, and the beauty of nature.
Read your favorite Bible verses in a translation or paragraph you normally don’t read. Here is my favorite Bible verse in The Message (Zephaniah 3:17): “Don’t be afraid. Dear Zion, don’t despair. Your God is present among you, a strong Warrior there to save you. Happy to have you back, he’ll calm you with his love and delight you with his songs.”
Write a greeting card verse and e-mail it to a special person. Or better yet, browse creative sites (like MarthaStewart.com) for card ideas and make your own.
Sometimes what we need is simply a break in our day from the mundane tasks of life. These tips are perfect for breaking up a routine. Who knows? You might end up inspired to finish writing that blog or to tackle that inbox.
Amy Tilson says
August 29, 2012 at 4:16 pmYou had me at Gene Kelly! One of my favorite scenes in any movie ever. It just gets the happy juices flowing.
Anonymous says
August 29, 2012 at 8:15 pmWonderful ideas. I needed some reminders. Monotony can just add to the weary soul. My mind has been spurred into action again! Thanks Tricia!
Kim Hall says
August 30, 2012 at 8:18 amSimple, doable and definitely attitude changing! Thanks for the list.
Tricia Goyer says
September 9, 2014 at 6:55 amGlad to encourage you!
Sandra Heska King says
September 2, 2012 at 5:49 amOh my, Tricia! That second paragraph–you’re living in my head. My thoughts exactly. Thanks for the great tips!
Tricia Goyer says
September 9, 2014 at 6:55 amYou’re welcome!