5 Quirky Habits to Stay Inspired as a Writer

As writers, we often hit creative blocks that make us feel stuck and uninspired. 

The key to overcoming these obstacles isn't always about churning out more words - sometimes, it's about stepping outside your usual routine. 

Here are five unexpectedly quirky habits that will keep you inspired and your writing flowing.

Dance to Your Favorite Song First Thing in the Morning

Start your day with a jolt of energy. 

Dancing to your favorite song the moment you wake up might sound silly, but it's incredibly effective. Moving your body shakes off the grogginess and gets your blood pumping, flooding your brain with endorphins.

Here's what I'd do: set your alarm to your favorite upbeat song. When it goes off, resist the urge to hit snooze. Instead, get up and move. Dance like no one's watching because no one is. You'll feel more awake and energized, ready to tackle the day's writing challenges.

For example, if "Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor gets you pumped, set it as your alarm. Dance for just three minutes and see how your mood lifts. This simple habit can transform your morning and set a positive tone for your entire day.

Send a Handwritten Thank-You Note

In a digital age, the handwritten thank-you note is a lost art. 

Writing one can make a significant difference in your creativity. Taking the time to write a note of gratitude forces you to slow down and reflect on the positive aspects of your life, which boosts your mood and sparks creativity.

Here's how to get started: pick someone who has positively impacted your life recently. Grab a pen and some nice stationery, and write a heartfelt thank-you note. Be specific about what you're grateful for and how they've helped you.

Maybe something like this. If a friend gave you helpful feedback on your latest draft, write to thank them for their time and insights. The act of writing, combined with the feeling of gratitude, can open up new creative avenues in your mind.

Cook a New Recipe (Even If You Don't Cook)

Breaking out of your comfort zone is essential for creativity. 

Cooking a new recipe, especially if you don't usually cook, is a fantastic way to challenge yourself and stimulate your brain. The process requires focus and attention to detail, which can help clear your mind and make room for new ideas.

To get started, pick a recipe that intrigues you but feels a bit challenging. Gather all the ingredients and set aside some time to cook. Don't rush - enjoy the process.

If you usually stick to simple dishes, try making homemade sushi. The precision required to roll sushi will engage your brain differently than writing does. This new experience can provide fresh perspectives and insights for your writing.

Declutter One Small Area

A cluttered space equals a cluttered mind. 

Decluttering even a small area can have a huge impact on your mental clarity and creativity. When your environment is orderly, your mind feels less stressed and more open to new ideas.

Here's what to do: pick a small area, like your desk or a single drawer. Set a timer for 10 minutes and clear out everything that doesn't serve a purpose or bring you joy. Organize what's left in a way that feels satisfying.

If your desk is piled with papers, like mine is, take a few minutes to sort through them. Throw away what you don't need and file the rest. 

A clean, organized space can help you think more clearly and write more freely.

Take a 5-Minute Cold Shower

This one's tough but incredibly effective. 

A 5-minute cold shower shocks your system, wakes you up, and boosts your creativity. The sudden change in temperature increases blood flow to your brain, which can help you think more clearly and creatively.

Here's what I'd do. At the end of your regular shower, turn the water to cold and stand under it for five minutes. Focus on your breathing and try to stay calm. It's uncomfortable, but that's the point - pushing through discomfort builds resilience.

For example, if you've hit a creative block, a cold shower can jolt you out of it. The initial shock can clear away mental fog and help you approach your writing with a fresh perspective.

The final word…

These five quirky habits can transform your daily routine and keep your creative juices flowing. 

Dance to wake up your body and mind, write thank-you notes to cultivate gratitude, cook new recipes to challenge yourself, declutter to clear your mind, and take cold showers to boost your alertness and creativity.

To get started, pick one habit and try it for a week. Notice how it affects your mood and creativity. Drop these habits into your daily life, and you'll find it easier to stay inspired and keep writing, even when you feel stuck.

Remember, creativity isn't just about sitting down and writing - it's about living a life that fuels your imagination. Try these habits, shake up your routine, and see how they can help you write with more inspiration and confidence. 

Your story deserves to be told, and these small changes can help you tell it.

Here's exactly where I'd start…