Creative writing is a tough job.
You’re usually writing stories of intricately woven fantasy worlds. And that requires lots of visualization and planning.
Not to mention – you need to structure your thoughts well.
Today, we’ll help you make that job easier. We have 5 setups that’ll make your creative writing process a breeze.
Follow them, and enjoy amazing results!
#1 – Get an Office.
Creative writing is difficult when you’re surrounded by people, noise, and other responsibilities.
If you’re doing your writing at home, we recommend waiting until your home’s empty (unless you live alone).
On the other hand, if you’ve got family, you’ll need to take your writing somewhere else.
Why?
You can’t afford to have your mind disturbed by distractions.
You see, the secret to good creative writing is to achieve a “flow state.” You want to be in a mode where images and words flow into your mind smoothly.
And that doesn’t happen with distractions.
So you’ll need a quiet location. And that’ll usually be an office (or a co-working spot)!
#2 – Find Tools to Help You Plug-In.
We mentioned that a flow state is necessary for good writing. And there are many ways to achieve that…
You can start with music. Many people connect well with their thoughts when they’re listening to beats.
Others need a drink. You might be the type of person that likes to sip while typing.
Find the tools that help you connect better to your work. Then, be sure to set those up in your environment!
#3 – Collect Sources of Inspiration.
Sometimes, you’ll end up in a position where you’re struggling to write.
Some call it “writer’s block.” Others call it a lack of inspiration.
But most of the time, it’s a lack of ideas. Your well of creative plans, storyline progress, and character development might’ve run out.
And in those situations, we recommend reading.
Seek Out Your Favorite Literature.
If you’re writing sci-fi stories, be sure to keep a stash of your favorite authors’ work nearby (it is better if that stash is digital).
Or, if you’re writing romance novels, keep aside some of the best love stories you’ve read!
Use those as food for thought. Let them fuel your imagination, and build upon the powerful patterns of the literature!
#4 – Don’t Forget the Imagery.
This applies especially if what you write gets published on blogs.
Many people need a few photos to keep their focus in check. And when it comes to photos, there are elements of timing and aesthetics.
You have to show photos after the correct lines, and to create the right impact.
Plus, aesthetically, the photos need to be high quality.
So you’ll need photo sizes that work well with the page structure (you might need to compress images for that).
Important Tip.
Don’t overuse imagery. And don’t pick something with excess detail.
Pick images that are subtle. After all, the whole point of creative writing is to give readers room to exercise their imaginations!
#5 – Get a Second Opinion.
Got a friend that likes your genre of writing?
If so, get them to read your work. Take notes of their reactions, and let them give you critique.
Obviously, this is a multiday (sometimes multi-week) process. You need to give your critics time for feedback.
Give them the opportunity to soak in your work, while providing their thoughts!
What if I Don’t Like Criticism?
Few people do. But tolerance to criticism is a muscle you’ve got to exercise.
It is part of what it means to be an artist. What you present triggers thoughts, questions, and conversations! And always remember, the better your art, the more conversation it gets – so critique is something to embrace!