CONTACT






    When You’re Feeling Stuck in Your Writing

    When You're Feeling Stuck in Your Writing
    by
    April 12, 2022
    in Writing
    2 Comments
    4221

    I sat on my couch, staring at a blank computer screen. I wanted to write. I needed to write. But my mind was blank. I had a few ideas flow through my mind but nothing that I knew would captivate a reader. Here I sat. Stuck.

    Have you been there? Have you wanted and needed to write but have been simply dumbfounded and without direction? You’re not alone. Here are a few ways to get a fresh start when you feel stuck in your writing. 

    1. Read, read, read. Take some time to read no matter what it is. Words going in can equal words coming out. Perhaps something you read will spur a thought that will lead you back to writing. If you’re not sure what to read, beginning with Scripture would be a great place to start.
    2. Be intentional about creating quiet time, whether it’s prayer, reflection and/or journaling. This might go without saying, but it’s important for us to align our wills with God’s. When we stop to take time to pray and be still, we can listen closely for God’s direction. Even if God is silent during this particular stillness, continue going back to Him for wisdom, discernment and guidance. He is a faithful God who will show up. 
    3. Look back at previous content. Do you have something you’ve written in the past that you can revamp and tweak? Can it be used again? Reread some of your favorite writing examples, and find a way to recycle them. Perhaps a sticky statement can be taken in a new direction.
    4. Ask a friend. Do you have a writing friend you can bounce ideas off of? If so, reach out and ask them to help you brainstorm new ideas. Most writers are more than happy to help out a fellow writer when they’re struggling. You can offer to return the favor when needed.

    Being called to write isn’t always an easy task. When life throws circumstances at you, or you’re simply worn out, creating new content can be daunting. When we involve God in our writing, we can know He will be honored and glorified no matter what we choose to write about. As you struggle, you can choose to spend more time with God, which will strengthen your faith and writing life. Don’t look at being stuck as only a negative situation. There’s a lot of good that can come out of it, too.

    Blessings,

    Rochelle Bauer

    What are some methods you use when feeling stuck in your writing? Share your ideas in the comments below.

    Share

    Rochelle Bauer lives in rural Minnesota, where the winters are long but beautiful, and the summers are short but sweet. She is the mom of three sons, one of whom is with Jesus. Rochelle loves music, long baths, a good book and a long nap. She has a deep desire to share how God has moved in her life and how He continues to show His faithfulness. You can follow her writing on Instagram: @rochelle_bauer_writer and on her website: www.rochellebauer.com

    Recommended Posts

    Leave a Reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Comments

    1. Margaret Heilman: April 29, 2022 at 10:45 am

      I’m going out on a limb. I am presently writing Devotionals that are being published. I will soon turn 89. I thought, when I was asked if I would accept a 2nd assignment, ‘Piece of cake.’ When the subject material was received, I realized I could not write on my own. I am 100% dependent on the help of the Lord. I am open to improvement. Writing can be intimidating.

      Reply
    2. Sarah Depledge: April 13, 2022 at 2:29 pm

      I can relate. Sometimes I feel like I can’t get the words down fast enough, as they come pouring out; but other times, I feel like a well that’s gone dry, and my bucket keeps coming up empty. One thing I have found that helps nudge me toward revitalizing my writing is to focus on God’s faithfulness. When I read my Bible, my heart is soon bursting with a fresh desire to express how marvelous and wonderful He is! And the words come pouring out again, as a sweet offering to God as I try to capture on paper just a glimpse of His grace to me. Since I write a lot of poetry, that is a vehicle that I often can use to praise Him. In some ways, it’s a habit borne over time, when it would be easier to shut down my computer and grab the tv remote. My choice to persevere is sort of an act of obedience and trust that says to God, “I’m not going to quit. You have been so good to me, and that story will never run dry, so help me to articulate your goodness and use my words to encourage someone else in ways that only You can.”
      I’m so glad I’ve found this group; it’s already been such an encouragement and today is only my first day exploring all these pages! 🙂

      Reply