Writing Rituals: Get in the Writing Mood

One of the biggest hindrances to writing is lack of motivation. Many think that writers just sit down whenever we want and write something. This is rarely the case. Usually we plop down in our chairs at some random hour, completely unmotivated, exhausted, frustrated, and empty.

We try everything to overcome this. We study books and take classes to awaken our creative drive; enlist support from other writers and try different techniques to get the ideas flowing. The list is endless.

Would you believe that I'm about to give you another option to add to that list?

When you have a million things to do each day, it's difficult to get into the writing mood, let alone come up with any creative ideas. Even if you don't have a busy schedule, writing can be a struggle. Creating your own ritual can get you into "writing mode."

A ritual can be anything. It can be something you do before beginning the writing process, or simply creating a specific atmosphere for writing time. Following are some example rituals.

Sip wine, coffee, or your favorite beverage

Relaxing with a glass of wine can help break down those seemingly impenetrable walls blocking our creativity. Coffee can be a great pick me up, and has been the faithful companion of many writers.

Meditate

Spending a few minutes in quiet meditation is a great way to calm the mind and open up to creative ideas. Many writers will not even begin their work until they have done this.

Wear a Special item of clothing

Choose a certain item of clothing and put it on before you sit down to write. Maybe you enjoy writing in your robe or pajamas; or perhaps you prefer something dressier.

Soak your feet or Take a Hot Bath

Soothing your aching feet and muscles is a great way to unwind before writing. We're all a lot more productive when we feel comfortable and at ease.

Burn your favorite candle

Keep some candles in your workspace and only light them when you sit down to write. There is something very inspiring about fire light, whether it is from a fireplace or the soft glow of a candle flame.

Listen to Your favorite writing music

Choose some inspirational music to listen to while you write. It doesn't matter what kind of music it is as long as it gets your creative juices flowing.

Read encouraging material

This can be a chapter from your favorite book, an article from a magazine, or maybe the real life account of another writer. Reading about other writers, or the work of other writers can be motivational.

Use specific materials

Do you have a favorite pen, location, chair, or notebook that you love to write with? Use them. Keep special tools meant to be used only for your work.

Create your own ritual

Rituals really can be anything. If you do it or use it and it helps you write, then it can be a writing ritual. Give it some thought. What kind of ritual can you come up with? Try out some different ideas until you find one that works; make it special and keep doing it.

Rituals are great because they help to set something apart from everything else. They make things special. Having a writing ritual will make your writing time special, and productive.

Note: For more information on making the writing process easier, see the links listed under resources.