Sometimes, no matter how many articles or stories you’ve written in the past, there comes a time when you don’t feel very inspired to write. You know you have to write something for a deadline, but you just don’t feel in the write mood (pun intended) to put pen to paper or fingers to the keyboard. Nothing comes to mind. Here are some ways to get inspired to get those stories out.

Pray

Talking to God is my first step in being inspired to write. When I first realized I was called to write over twenty-two years ago, I told the Lord that I would do so if He would provide the words. And He has never failed to provide. Sometimes I do have to wait, but that inspiration eventually comes.

Step Away

Sometimes a change of venue does something to kickstart an idea. Take a walk, go for a drive, or run an errand. Let your mind relax so you can clear some mental space for an idea to pop in. You might be pleasantly surprised at what comes out of it.

Look Around

Consider the season at the time of writing. Right now we are in December. This is the season of Christmas, the ending of fall and the beginning of winter. Look at the changes in color and take a whiff of the scents that surround you. Listen to the distinct sounds that you find only in that season. Taste the special flavors that only come at that time of year. Use whatever season you are in to inspire your thoughts and words.

Rest

Sometimes we push ourselves so much in grasping for ideas that we get worn out. Take some time to take care of you. Grab a quick nap. Drink some tea. Sit with your eyes closed and think of…nothing. We go, go, go so much that we don’t allow our mind to rest and relax. My way to relax sometimes is to read a children’s book. It takes my mind off the task at hand, and eventually I get inspired because I didn’t push my brain to work.

Finding something to inspire our writing is easier than we think. Ask God to help, and then look at the world around you with fresher eyes to see what kindles the words you need.

What inspires you to write?

Unsplash photo credits: Alexey Demidov, Patrick Fore, Frankie Lopez, and Everyday_matters

Catherine L. Osornio has written inspirational articles for a women’s ministry newsletter, over 200 leveled reader stories for a school’s reading program, fiction and nonfiction articles for Clubhouse and Clubhouse Jr. magazines, The Declaration of Independence from A to Z, Thunder Comes a Rumblin’, Mosquitoes Infect!, plus various work-for-hire projects. A former elementary school librarian, Catherine is passionate about sharing the love of reading. She enjoys cartooning, illustration, and reading kids’ books. Email her at CLOsornio@verizon.net or visit her at www.catherineosornio.com.