Writing is never easy. Writing original, compelling and thought-provoking content every day - that’s even more challenging.
But, if you’re an email, social media and content marketer like myself, writing isn’t optional. You need to write, and you need to write often. Emails, social media, white papers, guides, blogs…you have to keep up a steady stream of writing to stay competitive in a fast-paced atmosphere.
If a blank page is staring you down, we’re sharing ways to fire up your creativity and write consistently, painlessly and effortlessly.
1. Write first thing in the morning
Every morning, I wake up and follow the same routine: eat breakfast, pet my corgi and write. My best writing happens in the morning when my brain is fresh, recharged and open to ideas. I spend 15 minutes to half an hour free writing and then distance myself from my work and let it breathe. Later in the day, I’ll revisit my writing, flesh it out and fix any grammatical errors my bleary-eyed, sleepy self made. Try out a morning writing session and see if it works for you.
2. Write late at night
If you’re more of a night owl than a morning lark, try writing at night to get the creative juices flowing. Nighttime is prime time for writing because it’s the end of the day, there’s nowhere you have to rush off to and there is no one to distract you. It’s just you, yourself and the screen (or piece of paper). You can pour all of the inspiration and emotions gathered throughout the day into your writing and create the most imaginative and original digital marketing content.
3. Schedule time to write
Whether you’re new to the craft or an experienced writer, a writing schedule can be a great way to stay on top of all writing assignments and stay sane. Make sure you’re blocking out time to write on a weekly or even daily basis. How long you spend writing doesn’t matter. What’s important is that you’re getting into the habit of writing consistently.
If possible, let your coworkers, friends or family know when you’re planning to write so they know not to disturb you unless it’s urgent. Create a time block in a shared work calendar or Google calendar. These scheduled writing sessions will help you get into an effortless writing zone and steer clear of distractions.
4. Carry a journal with you everywhere
Inspiration can strike at any time. You never know when you’ll think of a catchy headline or compelling email subject line. That’s why I carry a journal with me everywhere I go (a journal that may or may not have a Harry Potter-themed cover). If I have an idea, I have to write it down immediately or risk losing it forever.
Keeping a journal on you at all times may seem like a pain, especially if you don’t have an overflowing and fathomless purse like mine. But, trust me. When it comes time to write your next blog or step-by-step guide, that journal crammed full of hastily scrawled ideas will be incredibly useful. I’m constantly paging through mine for a jolt of inspiration.
5. Join a writing group
Whether online or in person, writing groups can refuel your creativity and continually give you ideas. You can swap inspirational tips and strategies with fellow writers, and apply this knowledge directly to writing blogs and other content for your business. Any writing - whether it’s poetry, short stories or memoirs - is good practice for writing persuasive and engaging digital content.
Even better, think about taking a business and marketing writing class where you can feed off the energy and creativity of a collaborative learning environment. If money is an issue, there are plenty of low-cost or free marketing class options available.
6. Read more than you write
The more you read, the better you write. When you read, you fill gaps in your knowledge and glean new ideas. Not only that, but you expand your vocabulary. It doesn’t matter what you read. Magazines. Books. Articles. Any reading material can help you become a better and more effective writer.
Every writer faces writer’s block at some point. The key to overcoming these creative hurdles is not to get discouraged. Force yourself out of your writing comfort zone and try fresh, new tactics. Shake up your writing routine and watch your inspiration soar to new heights!
It’s hard writing fresh, new content when it seems like everything has been said before or when you have little time to spare. Our team of experienced and highly motivated writers can help you produce unique, share-worthy content your audience will love and actively consume. Contact us today to see how we can help you generate fresh content creation ideas.
