If there's one piece of writing advice I swear by, it's this: just show up.
Writing doesn't always come easy. Some days, the words flow effortlessly, as if the muse is sitting right there beside you, whispering brilliant ideas into your ear. Other days, it feels like squeezing water from a stone - tedious, slow, and frustrating. But here's the thing: the magic happens when you show up anyway.
Writing is like any relationship; it requires consistency and commitment. Even if you don’t write the perfect sentence, showing up to the page proves you’re serious about your craft. It builds discipline and keeps your creative muscles strong.
On those tough days, remember this: it’s okay to write badly. In fact, bad writing is often the gateway to good writing. You can’t edit a blank page, but you can shape and refine a messy one.
Here are some simple ways to show up for your writing, even when motivation feels out of reach:
1, Set a Timer: Commit to writing for just 10 or 15 minutes. Often, once you start, you’ll keep going.
2. Lower the Stakes: Give yourself permission to write something imperfect. It doesn’t have to be a masterpiece; it just has to exist.
3. Find Your Ritual: For me, it’s a cup of proffee and a quiet space. Find what puts you in the mood to write and make it part of your routine.
4. Write Something Different: If you’re stuck on a project, try journaling, freewriting, or even writing a letter to your future self. Any writing is progress.
Writing isn’t about waiting for inspiration to strike; it’s about showing up, putting in the work, and trusting the process. Even on the days when you feel like nothing is working, remember that every word you write is a step closer to where you want to be.
So grab your pen, laptop, or notebook, and just show up. You never know what might happen once you start.
What’s your favorite way to kickstart your writing when you’re feeling stuck? I’d love to hear your tips in the comments!