Writing can feel like a chore. Even the most prolific of writers can suddenly find themselves hitting a wall. Words can flow like magic one day, and the next, words can feel forced, or worse, blocks can appear. What happened when writing feels more like a chore? It can be stressful, especially if working on deadline or trying to stay consistent with personal projects.
This used to happen to me all the time, but I learned that the inspiration isn’t gone forever. With the right creative practices, you can feel inspired again. Here’s a look at how:
Why Do You Write?
Do you know why you started writing? Do you remember? When you feel uninspired, clinging to your why can help considerably. Some reasons including the desire to tell stories, helping others, teaching people, and because it simply feels good to write. Your why can get you out of that slump. The goal is to be self aware, notice when you’re struggling, and then reconnect with why you write.
Make the Task Seem Smaller
A big part of writing resistance comes from overwhelm. If you’re trying to complete a full chapter, draft an entire blog post, or polish a piece to perfection, it can feel paralyzing. Instead, try writing just one paragraph—or even one sentence. Tiny wins build momentum. Once you start, you often find it easier to keep going.
Change Your Scenery
Environment plays a huge role in creativity. If you’ve been sitting at the same desk day after day, it might be time for a change. Try writing in a park, a café, or even a different room. A shift in surroundings can offer a shift in mindset, inviting in fresh energy and new perspectives.
Learn How to Play
Give yourself permission to write badly. Free-write nonsense. Journal what you’re feeling. Make a list of random thoughts. Write a haiku or a letter you’ll never send. Taking the pressure off to “produce” often unlocks unexpected creativity. You don’t have to be brilliant today—you just have to show up.
Use Your Creative Fuel
Inspiration rarely comes from staring at a blank screen. Read a poem. Watch a movie that moves you. Revisit a favorite book. Take a walk and listen to music or a writing podcast. Creativity is cyclical—what you take in affects what you put out. Refill your well with beauty and insight.
Learn How to Talk it Out
Sometimes, talking about your ideas can spark new excitement. Share your project with a friend. Explain your writer’s block out loud. You’d be surprised how often solutions (and new motivation) appear just through conversation. Community can help reignite your enthusiasm.
Accept Where You Are
Writing, like all things, has seasons—some more fruitful than others. If you’re in a low-energy cycle, don’t panic. Rest, restore, and trust that the spark will return. It always does.
Writing won’t always feel magical, but that doesn’t mean the magic is gone. Stay connected to your why, take the pressure off, and let creativity come back to you gently. The page is still waiting—and so is your voice.