5 ways to stay motivated as a writer

Let's face it, writing can be a lonely and frustrating profession. You can spend hours, even days, staring at a blank screen or sheet of paper, trying to summon the motivation to put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard). Trust me, I've been there. But the truth is, being a successful writer requires dedication and perseverance. Here are five ways you can stay motivated as a writer:

1) Find A Support Group or Writing Buddy

There's nothing like being around other people who understand what you're going through. When you find a group of fellow writers, you'll instantly have a built-in support system to help you through the tough times. Not only will they be able to offer advice and encouragement, but they can also provide much-needed accountability.

2) Set Small Goals

Set realistic goals for yourself and break them down into small, manageable tasks. For example, if you're writing a novel, set a goal of writing 1,000 words per day. And if you're having trouble getting started, break that 1,000 words down into smaller chunks, like 250 words every hour for four hours straight. The key is to make your goals achievable so you can see results and feel a sense of accomplishment.

3) Take Breaks

It's important to give yourself time away from your work in order to come back fresh and recharged. When you feel like you're stuck in a rut, take a break and do something completely unrelated to writing. Go for a walk, watch a movie, or read a book. The key is to not force it – the ideas will come when they come.

4) Read A Lot

If you want to be a good writer, you need to read as much as possible. Reading exposes you to different styles of writing and helps to broaden your vocabulary. It also gives you something to aspire to – seeing how other writers have achieved success can be incredibly motivating.

5) Find A Mentor

Having someone who's been through the trenches and come out the other side can be invaluable. A mentor can offer advice, share their own experiences, and help keep you accountable. If you don't have any mentors in your life, there are plenty of books written by successful authors that can provide some guidance (just make sure you don't get too caught up in comparing yourself).

Writing can be a difficult profession, but it's also an incredibly rewarding one. If you're struggling to stay motivated as a writer, try following some or all of the tips listed above. And remember – even if it feels like it sometimes, you're not alone in this journey!

Need a bit of extra motivation? Check out our inspirational posters and planners.