Pen & Ink

Sharing Fiction, Poetry, and Writing Tutorials

5 Tips for Unmotivated Writers – Guest Post by Miley Simmonds

Hey there, readers! Today I will be sharing a guest post from my good friend, Miley Simmonds.

I’m super excited to share this post with you, as I think a lot of beginning writers struggle with motivation. I know I do, and I’ve been writing for several years now. 😅 So whether you’re a beginner or a pro, this post is for you.

Also, Miley just recently started her own blog (Faith & Writing), so if you liked this post, be sure to subscribe to her blog!

So let’s get straight to it! Without further ado, I present to you…

5 Tips for Unmotivated Writers

If you try to write but struggle with motivation, then there are a few beginner tips that you should know.

Tip #1 – Figure Out Your Style

There are a few different ways to write a book, and you need to figure out which way is right for you. This could be a blog on its own, so I’ll try to keep this short.

  • Plotter: Plotters make an outline and a plan. They make sure their story is planned out ahead of time, and they figure out who their characters are and their personalities.
  • Pantser: They start at Chapter 1 and go from there. They make changes as they write and edit later.

Neither one of these writing styles is bad, and there are even more different ways to write a story besides these, but we don’t have time for that today.

Once you figure out your style, you can start enjoying the process more. Oh, and by the way, I’m sort of in the middle of these two, so I’m a plantser.

Tip #2 – Use the Right Tools

There are so many different apps and websites that allow you to write. I use Microsoft Word, but there are tons out there.

Depending on what you’re writing, this can be really important. For instance, when I’m screenwriting, I don’t use Microsoft Word, I use Scriptwriting, an app specifically designed for screenwriting. And grammar isn’t my thing, so I use Grammarly (and no, this is not sponsored). The right tools can make it easier for you to write and be more productive.

Tip #3 – Find the Right Place

Whether it’s at your desk or under a tree, finding the right place to write is important. If you get distracted by noise, then find somewhere really quiet. If you like the outdoors, then write in a hammock. Maybe you like to listen to music, or you like a really clicky keyboard.

There are so many places to write and lots of routines that you could do. Some places inspire you, while others are really boring to you. And don’t be afraid to change things up. Maybe you do your best work in the morning or in the evening, and you really like a certain drink or food while you write. This is pretty normal and can help you put more words on the page.

Tip #4 – Different Ways to Write

There might be a completely different reason why you’re struggling. Some writers think the only way to get a story out there is by writing a whole book, but that’s not the case. There are short stories, articles (newspapers/blogs), and screenwriting (movies/plays/tv shows). Don’t limit yourself to one. When I get a little tired of writing my book (which I just started writing) I write an article for my blog. Remember to explore your options before you commit to just one.

Tip #5 – Pray

God made you, and He knows how to inspire you. You don’t need anything else but Him. When all else fails, He is always enough. Pray for motivation and inspiration. He is always there for you no matter what, and He hears your prayers.

And we know that for those who love God, all things work together for good, for those who are called according to His purpose.

Romans 8:28

That’s All!

I hope some of these helped you and gave you some inspiration.

About Miley Simmonds

Miley Simmonds is a young beginner writer hoping to share her passion with others. You can usually find her reading or writing. She is a strong believer in Christ and loves showing her faith to others. Besides writing, she loves softball, contortion, and baking.

Leave a Reply

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

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

2 responses to “5 Tips for Unmotivated Writers – Guest Post by Miley Simmonds”

  1. Emma Avatar

    I love tip #4 especially. I’ve found blog posts a nice break from working on my novels, and vice versa. I’ll have to try out more short stories… those would be fun.

    1. Miley Simmonds Avatar

      I totally agree I do a lot of different writing depending on how I’m feeling.

%d