Need to write but you’re not in the mood? This will help

by Adedotun Adejoorin

Let’s face it. There are times you’ll just not be in the mood to write. It happens to the best writers so you’re definitely not alone. Writing flows better when you are inspired to write. Inspiration is however hard to find when you are not in the mood to write.

So what should you do when you find yourself in such a situation? Read on…

1) Exercise. Engaging in some form of physical activity will get some adrenaline pumped into your system and this can motivate you to write something. We suggest jogging, taking a walk or dancing. Do something simple but effective.

2) Read. Yes, we are strong advocates of reading. Reading is one of the fastest ways of getting inspired to write. You can read anything; a blog post, a newspaper article or even a Facebook post.

3) Talk to someone. If you are a people person, then you might find it useful to talk to someone. Tell them how you feel and engage them in a conversation. You just might stumble on something that will inspire you to write as you discuss with that person. Do make sure you talk to someone interesting, not someone who will bore you.

4) Stare at your computer screen. It’s a weird advice right? Who wants to spend time staring at a blank word document? Want to know why this works? It forces you to think. The more you stare at the blank document, the more eager you’ll be to fill up the page with words and an inspiration to write will come. Don’t believe us? Try it!

How do you get yourself inspired when you do not feel like writing? Do share 🙂

Dear writer, this is why you should read

by Adedotun Adejoorin

Have you ever wondered why people keep asking what book  you are reading now or when last you read a book? Do you question why you have to keep reading as a writer? Or do you want to know the difference between a writer who reads and the one who does not?

Well, we have the answers for you!

Reading is not just a hobby for any serious writer; it is a necessity and these are the reasons why:

Reading widens your skill – When you read, you will begin to appreciate the different styles and approaches each writer uses in writing and this will help you to find your niche. The more you read, the more you’ll be exposed to all kinds of writing; the good, the bad and the ugly. You will learn how to avoid the mistakes other writers make and you’ll learn good writing habits too. Reading helps you to analyze and make your stories better.

Reading can be a source of inspiration – When you think you’ve lost your flow or the well of inspiration has gone dry, try reading. There are times when as a writer you don’t feel like you are in your place or you do not have enough motivation to write. At such moments, take a book and read. It can help to re-fire your inspiration. It will fuel your imagination and give you new ideas.

Reading helps you learn new vocabulary – As a writer the major tool you use to communicate your thoughts and ideas to your reader is vocabulary. This is why your grasp of vocabulary is crucial. It will help you become a better writer. The more words you know the better your writing will be. Want to know how you learn new words and have fun at the same? We’re sure you already know the answer – by reading!

Reading helps you to keep up with the trend – Can you imagine a technology reporter not aware that Apple has released a new iPhone? It will be a disaster and that will probably be because he does not read. It is very important for writers, especially those who write industry based articles, to keep up with the trend. You need to read to know what is happening in that industry you write about. You should be the one informing your readers about what is happening. You cannot afford to write stale news; you won’t get clients that way. When a new invention comes you should be the first to know.

Reading develops the mind – According to Richard Steele ,”Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body”.  Exercise makes the body stronger, healthier and builds its stamina. It is the same with reading. It makes you wiser and more exposed. The mind needs to be exercised daily and reading helps you achieve that. As a writer you rely on your mind a lot and you cannot afford to let it lie fallow.

We love this quote by Natalie Goldberg – “If you read good books, good books will come out of you!” So keep reading and keep writing.