4 Ways to Find Inspiration | NaNoWriMo Day 11

NaNo Update: I'm behind. Like...I don't want to think just how behind I am. But, I am hoping (maybe foolishly?) that I'll be able to cover some considerable ground this weekend. So far, it's looking positive! But the problem is that, when I do get time to write, I don't always feel inspired. Am I right? Do you feel that way too?

I compiled a list of four things I do when I'm lacking inspiration...

4 Ways to Find Inspiration

Look at inspiring things
Don't underestimate the power of your imagination. I'm a very visual person and for me, looking at a photo can spark a sense of wonder and amazement. When I'm feeling a lack of inspiration I'll often go to a website like Unsplash.com and just browse through the images there. Often times I'll see something that makes me think, "Oooo, what if?"

From Unsplash

Get up, get out, and think

For me, as a full-time writer and photographer, I spend a lot of time at--you guessed it--my desk! That's great, I love my work space, but what it lacks is nature (though I am thinking of getting  plant...). I love being outdoors and when I'm lacking inspiration the answer for me is usually to get up, get out, and think. Taking a walk around the neighborhood or driving to a park to walk is exactly what I need to stimulate my thoughts. There are times where I just need quiet time to be away from work, but there are other times where I really need to wrestle through things that are happening in my novel. For me, a walk is the perfect time to do that.

Pro Tip: Take a notebook with you. I'd say take your phone, but sometimes that can be more distracting. Having a notebook is low-tech but handy when inspiration strikes! 

Talk with friends
Never underestimate the power of a great conversation and writer-friends. I'm serious! There have been so many times when I've wanted to give up. I've thought to myself...I am not a writer and I can't do this. It's exactly at that time that I go begging to my friends to tell me what to do. And you know what? They encourage me, remind me why I write, and, in some cases, lovingly berate me about finishing that dang novel so that they can read it. It is the best medicine for a nervous writer who thinks they've lost their inspiration.

In line with this: remember why you write. To be a true writer mean's you aren't in it for the notoriety or the fame, you're not writing to make the best sellers list (although, if that happens you wouldn't mind), and you're not pouring out blood, sweat, and tears over fictional people just because it's fun (though it is at some points). Reminding yourself why you write will often inspire you to write. And friends are perfect for helping with this.

Just Write
Ok, this may sound like a cop-out. We're talking about inspiration and I'm telling you to write un-inspired? Not fair. Well...maybe.

The thing is, there will be times when you are uninspired, but what do you do? You write! There will be times when you're tired? What do you do? You write! There will be times when you feel discouraged and nothing seems to make it better. What do you do? You write!

To be a writer means that you will face days, sometimes weeks, without inspiration but you push through. That doesn't mean what you write during this time is necessarily good...but I think there are times when we will surprise ourselves. Out of a seemingly dry well, something beautiful will come to life. Our words may not be the ones we wanted in that moment, but they will be the ones we needed to get out. And maybe they needed to get out of the way so that better ones could come.

Take courage, dear friend! When you are down and feel like there is no way you could possibly keep writing - you CAN! I believe in you and your story. If you had the desire to write it when you started, then there was a reason for that and you need to finish it! By all means, take a break, but don't wait too long. Just write.

***

To be a creative means you see the world differently. That also mean's you are inspired differently as well. These are just some of the ways that I find inspiration, but they may not work the same way for you. I'd suggest trying them and combinations of them to see what works.

Let me know below how YOU are inspired!

When I'm Most Inspired

There are times when I think I'll explode if I don't write about how I'm feeling. I realize that may be a very odd thing to admit to. I also realize that not everyone feels that way. But it happens. It sneaks up on me and then it's like BAM:

INSPIRATION

Sometimes it's a story I read. Or a photo. Or a memory. Or a song.

Right now it's a song: Hoppípolla by Sigur Rós. They are an Icelandic band and I have absolutely no idea what the song is about or what they are saying. There is something unbelievably moving about it though. (Follow me on Spotify!)

I often marvel at our human ability to be moved by the arts. I can watch a talented dancer giving it their all or hear a beautiful singer (hello Lady Gaga with her tribute to The Sound of Music) and feel completely overwhelmed. It's the same for me when I am in nature, surrounded by trees and everything is still. It whispers to my soul, brings tears to my eyes, and reminds me...

He is creator. 

I don't create because I'm talented. I created because He is. I wouldn't have the understanding, the inspiration, or the ability to do anything without this crazy thing called life. Where do ideas come from? The world around us (created by Him). Human nature (created by Him). Our own minds (created by Him).

If you lack inspiration, maybe you are lacking time with Him, enjoying His creation, and relishing the simple complexity that is life. I know that getting out into nature or taking time away from the busy nature of life helps me focus and remember who He is.

The heavens declare the glory of God,
and the sky above proclaims his handiwork.
Psalm 19:1

What do you think? What inspires you? Where do you go to be inspired? What music inspires you?

For the Love of Writing: 7 Things That Keep Me Writing

February is a moth devoted to love. This single girl may not have a man in her life (aside from my amazing Dad!) but I do have a love. A love of writing.

>>Insert corny grin<<

Anyway, sometimes things can overshadow that love and I find myself missing the initial attraction I once had. The spark is gone. The romance--dead.

What do I do when that happens? Not to worry, I'm going to tell you! These things, of course, aren't a cure-all remedy, but they do help when it comes to reliving the love I have for writing.

7 Things That Keep Me Writing

1. Prayer
I put this in the coveted #1 slot for a reason. It should be my go-to at every turn, though sadly I'll admit it sometimes isn't. When I'm feeling 'down in the dumps' or uncreative, I need to pray and remember. Pray for the strength to push through and for inspiration to the creator of inspiration, but also to remember that I didn't start on this crazy journey completely of my own accord. I had a purpose, direction form the Lord, and a passion for it. 

2.Conversation
Never underestimate the power of a great conversation! Find those creative friends and start talking about writing. Share your lackluster outlook. Ask about their work. Talk about books. Be encouraged. This goes hand and hand with number 3...

Images by: Alicia Savage

3. Dreaming
Ah the beauty of wide opens spaces in the mind. Give yourself some time to get away (or out) whether that's a drive through the countryside, a walk around your neighborhood, or maybe just sitting in a coffee shop without another agenda. Allow yourself the freedom to dream--about your current work or your next one--but don't put the pressure on. Just let it simmer.

4. Creating
Writing is a creative process. Sometimes, when one creative thing falls dormant, another can reawaken it. Take some time to create even if that's not involving writing. I'm a photographer so I can turn to photography as another creative outlet. What about you?

5. Reading
Sometimes when your writing feels uninspired you need to remember just how good great writing can feel. Take time to read a great book! Maybe it's one you've already read that inspired you, or possibly a new one by your favorite author. Let their imagination and writing spur you to write.

6. Re-reading
Now we're talking serious action. When you're uninspired to write, suck it up and go back to that manuscript collecting dust in the corner. Put away the distractions, pick it up, pray, and then start re-reading. Look for things that inspire you within your own writing--the phrases or descriptions that you can't believe you wrote. Then be honest about what needs work. You've already started the process by this point. 

7. Writing
Last but not least, what keeps me writing? WRITING. Ha! That may be counter intuitive but it's true. Sometimes I just need to write to remember that I love to write. It may be painful. It may be awful writing. And it may result in 200 words written before you have to take a break, but at the end of the day those 200 words brought you just that much closer to the end.

What about you? What do you do when the "romance had faded" with writing? What keeps you writing?

What to do when you're not feeling the NaNo | NaNoWriMo Prep (part 3)

Burn out. Tiredness. Writers block. (gasp!)

It happens to all of us, but when you're in the midst of Nano you do not want to deal with any of these things - or a multitude of other issues you could face. No writer likes to be uninspired...it almost feels as if your creativity is betraying you. Laughing at your lack of ability to write.

Well, I'm here to tell you today that there is no such thing as writers block...

Oh wait, no. Oops. I'm not here to tell you that. That's a real thing. *Cringes* But I am here to tell you that it's okay.

Maybe that's not what you wanted to hear? But it's true. Yes - there will likely come a time when  you are "blocked". Maybe you're not sure how your character will get out of a certain situation? Or maybe your main character suddenly has a heart attack and dies (not preferable at all).

The beauty of NaNoWriMo is that those things are perfectly all right! You know what you do then? You write on.

But it's terrible writing. 
But I no longer have a main character. 
But I can't figure out her motivation. 
But...

You get the point. And what do you do? Write on. Just like Dr. Who is recommending here >>>

You may wonder what I'm getting at. There are plenty of times when published authors are not inspired. What do they do? Sit in a corner an sulk? Probably not. Though mabye they do...?

I'm basically trying to point out that, if they can overcome not being inspired, then so can you!

What you do with lack of inspiration is the important thing.

Here are 5 things that I recommend you attempt when you're at the burn out stage or even the writers block stage. They aren't guaranteed to "fix" everything, but they may help you gain back some of your inspiration, and if not - they can give you strength to keep on writing, despite the dry creative desert you may be in.

5 Ways To Gain Inspiration

1. Take a walk
I don't know about you, but I love being outdoors. The feel of wind on my face, the sun shining or clouds...clouding? Yeah. But, being outside is so invigorating. When I'm feeling stuck, I often like to take a walk and look around me. People watching is a great way to gain inspiration, but also looking at nature reminds us that God is creative too. Pair this with # 5 and  you've got a great combination for inspiration. (Did that sound cheesy or what?)

2. Read a book
No. I'm not saying "steal ideas" but I am saying be inspired by good writing. Often, I will subconsciously learn through the books that I'm reading (another reason it's so important to read authors in your genre and authors who's writing you love). Let their words encourage you - and remember, they had off days (weeks, months, years) too!

3. Plan, plot, proceed
When I say "write on" I really do mean it. But, Emilie, you protest, I'm uninspired!  I hear you, and I sympathize, but I will play the unaffected drill sergeant and say, "I don't care if you're uninspired, I want you to WRITE!" Plan out where you're going - even if it's not thrilling to you at the moment. Plot your hero/heroin's next moves. And proceed! Yes, it maybe awful writing but I have a feeling sooner rather than later you'll be on a roll again. Inspiration is funny like that. Fleeting for a few moments but quickly found when you least expect it.

4. Talk it out
This is where those writing buddies I mentioned before come in. Complain to them. Do a little whining. Maybe even bash your characters to them, but then talk it out. Have them help you gain back that inspiration or burst through that writers block. Even if you don't like their ideas, you may find yourself back on track due to their influence.

5. Pray
We write for more than just ourselves. Bearing the burden of ideas and the words to carry them out is a gift. You may feel like you're "just writing a novel" for NaNoWriMo, but it's so much more than that. When all else fails, take time to refocus your heart. Even a silly little novel written for Nano can become something amazing.





Are you encouraged my friends? Make sure to come back to this post if you find yourself drowning in the midst of November. We'll all probably hit a wall here and there, but these things can help when you feel like your creative well has momentarily dried up.

What do you do to gain inspiration?

***Check out last week's post here. And part 1 here.

Why I Read and Six Reasons Why You Should Too

This is my follow up to my previous post: "Why I Write and Six Reasons Why You Should Too".

If you're a writer I'm sure you've heard the phrase, "Write what you read" (or something close to this). I agree...but not 100% with this statement. It's similar to the idea of writing what you know. But what fun would it be if I only wrote about my personal experiences?

I went to the store today....
I baked cookies last night...
I ran 6 miles this afternoon...

...Boring! 

BUT, if I were to write about things I'd like to know more about, that could be interesting!

This all ties into reading because I believe books offer just that type of experience. A well written novel will transport you to a new place and a new experience. A good book can draw images from thin air creating a new world for you to explore - all within the comforts of your own home or a local coffee shop. [It's important to note that I believe coffee and books--or writing--go hand in hand here ;)]

With this in mind, here are my reasons for why I think you should read. I don't care if it's a magazine or a thousand page novel - I will still argue you should be reading.

|| Six reasons why I think you should read ||

1. Reading is good for your brain
There have been many studies done and articles written on the fact that reading is, in fact, good for your brain. You are making connections from processing your thoughts from the words on the page to your imagination and creating connections and even mental images based on what you read. That's amazing and it's all from reading.

2. Reading allows you to experience things you normally wouldn't
Have you ever stopped to think how amazing it is that we have access to so much information in today's technological age? We can read anything, anywhere, at any time about pretty much any subject we could ever want to know about. That's the beauty of reading! It extends the knowledge you have that is gained only from your surroundings to push beyond the boundaries of your current life. I think of reading Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen and learning about life in Bath in the 1800s and how I can gain a view (albeit fictional) of what that was like. Nothing else, short of a time machine, could give me that experience.

3. Reading expands your vocabulary 
When I was younger, I remember reading and often having to ask what words meant. As I grew older, the words became common to me and I was able to enjoy them instead of being caught by their length or a definition I didn't know. Now, I enjoy it when I come across a word I'm unfamiliar with. I immediately open the dictionary app on my phone and find out what the challenging word means. When you read, you are always challenged to learn new things and new words.

4. Reading is a discipline
It's not always easy to sit down and read--especially if it's a textbook. Some of the longest nights I experienced in college where those where I had hundreds of pages to read for class the next day. Now, I am able to use my free time to read what I want, but it's still a challenge sometimes. I have books I want to read because I know I'll learn from them, but it's a discipline for me to set aside the time to do that. This discipline, if applied correctly, can overflow into other areas of my life as well, teaching me to be responsible with my time.

5. Reading is relaxing 
There is nothing better than settling down with a great novel right before bed. Suddenly, the stress of the day melts off as I'm lost in a fictional world. The only problem here is when I get stuck in a crucial part and find myself staying up much later than planned ;)

6. Reading is fun!
Yes, I stole this from my previous post, but it is just as true here as it was there. Reading is captivating, enchanting, and entertaining, but most of all it is fun. I love getting lost in a book and, when I've finally put it down again, feeling as if I've lost touch with close friends. Good writing can do that, and makes the experience completely worth it.

Taken from Pinterest

Some of this I'm sure you already knew, but have you stopped to take time to think about why you read? Or maybe why you don't? In our world today, life is constantly busy. We have more resources than any other time before us and yet we have less time with which to enjoy those resources. I hope that, as hardcover books go by the wayside and Kindles take their place, we will not forsake the act of reading for what it truly is: something beautiful.

***What about you? Do you enjoy reading? What do you like to read? Why do you like reading?***

Why I Write and Six Reasons Why You Should Too

For those of you who are writers, I probably don't need to convince you to write... I'm sure you do this already. But, if you don't, you should. And for those of you who may not enjoy writing, I'd still highly recommend you start writing in your spare time. That may be a journal or a note card or maybe you finally put words to paper about a great idea you had once. Whatever it maybe - I implore you to write and I'll tell you why...

||Six reasons why I think you should write||

1. Writing is a release 

There are so many things we've left unsaid. So many times we meant to convey a feeling or idea and then found ourselves too shy or angry or confused to get those feelings out. Writing is a fantastic release for this. For those aspiring to write fiction, the process of writing can release a lot of creativity in a productive way as you work toward the goal of crafting a story. Others can find that writing out emotions can help negate the negative affects of having said something you never meant to or the fond times of re-reading things like the reasons you fell in love with your significant other.

2. Writing stimulates imagination

I look into the distance and all I see is possibility. I see a love story forming, an unlikely hero emerging, or the happy ending to a devastating tale. Not all people think like this, I understand that, but writing can help to foster this type of imagination. If you're more of a practical thinker, writing can help you explore imaginative alternatives to practical ideas.

3. Writing helps create discipline

Sitting down to write in a journal or on a book every day is difficult! A great way to keep yourself accountable is to tell others what you are trying to do. For me, that's announcing to my friends that I am working on a book knowing they will ask me how its going. Per Google, it takes an average of 66 days to from a habit so make sure you stick it out!

4. Writing bridges the gap 

When you take the time to write things down - whether they are emotions or just daily events - you can tend to see them more clearly than if you allow them to stay trapped in your mind. This happens for me with a story. I'll see it in a hazy, undefined plot arc but once I start to write it out the reality of it becomes clear. Also though, I tend to see patterns in my own emotions or though processes when I journal out how I'm feeling. Writing can give clarity to issues and understanding to feelings at times.

5. Writing creates permanence 

I will never forget the beauty of holding the typed pages of my grandmother's story in my hands after she passed away (you can read a tribute post about her here). She has left her legacy not only in my memory, but in my favorite form of experience - her writing! I can think of nothing better to leave those I love than my writing.

6. Writing is fun 
Some of you will probably not (initially at least) agree with me here, but writing can be fun!!! Just think of the power of words on a page. We each have our own unique experiences to lend to our story telling and, though the process can be difficult, the end result (published or not) is something we have created! Laugh at your silly journal entries from a year ago, giggle at your silly character from your novel years back, or smile as you read your own heartfelt words written out of the creativity of your own mind. No matter what you write or who you write it for, make sure you enjoy the process!

From Pinterest

Remember: Don't get caught up in being perfect and do take time to write.

***What about you? Do you enjoy writing? What do you like to write?***

We have a winner...And a NaNoWriMo update!

I have been running around all month day thinking...I promised them a winner and a winner they shall have! But it's been a little hectic to get to this post.

If you missed Connie Mann's amazing interview last Wednesday you can check it out [here]. Connie was good enough to offer a copy of her book Angel Falls as a giveaway and we have a winner!

Linda Barbosa

Congratulations, Linda! Sorry you had to wait to find out, but didn't it make it all the better for having waited? Ok...maybe I'm just trying to convince myself?

NaNo Update...

And what would a late night post be without a NaNoWriMo update? I'll confess... I'm behind *cough-again-cough* and was planning on already being caught up but...as you can tell by this post, I'm not quite there yet.

Here's a real-time snapshot of my novels current status...

Yes. I am crying a little inside when I read "At this rate you will finish on: December 4th" BUT I shall not let it hold me down! It may be thinking that right now, but by 12am tonight/this morning I will be much closer (or so I hope...).

How are you doing? When are you "expected" to finish?

And, for inspiration sake, I keep holding on to his:

From Pinterest

Star Trek Into Darkness and Fall Thoughts...

First things first - the winner from Gail's giveaway is:

Connie

Gail will be in touch with you soon to get you your ebook copy of her novel Stopped Cold! Congrats!

***

What do advanced technology and fall have to do with one another?

Well...to be honest, not much. But, it just so happens that I watched this lovely movie recently and it's finally turning fall-ish so I though, why not?

Have you had the chance to see this movie yet? I've admitted before that I'm quite the Star Trek fan (Next Generation being my favorite) but I was very impressed by both of the new Star Trek movies. They have been action packed, exciting, and not completely separate from from their Star Trek roots. I enjoy Chris Pine's acting as well, and think that Zachary Quinto does a fantastic job at being Spock.

On to things of fall...

The leaves are rustling, temperatures dropping, and pumpkins popping up all over the place. That's right, it's finally FALL! This is probably my most favorite season with winter coming in at a close second. I love curling up with a blanket and a hot mug of (insert your favorite warm drink).

For me, fall is also an inspirational time. I think, if I could, I'd write about fall during fall all the time. Of course, that's not possible...but still, a girl can dream, can't she?

What is YOUR favorite part about this season? Or maybe least favorite if you aren't a fall fan.  We had a lot of great input on Laura Hilton's post about our favorite fall snack, so let's switch it up...

What is your favorite fall ACTIVITY? 

I'd love to hear from you in the comments below :)

Rainy Days and Inspiration

I've been enjoying the rain as of late. It doesn't rain much down here in Southern California. I don't know about you, but I actually become inspired when it's raining and the sky is all grey. What about you? 

What are you inspired by?

I mentioned it a few posts ago, but I'm still curious.

Are you inspired by photos? Do these flowers and seascape cause a stirring in your soul?

Or maybe you're inspired by quotes from great authors...

To produce a mighty book, you must choose a mighty theme.
- Herman Melville

Don’t try to figure out what other people want to hear from you; figure out what you have to say. It’s the one and only thing you have to offer.
- Barbara Kingsolver

Great is the art of beginning, but greater is the art of ending.
- Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Or maybe you are inspired by music or silence? Either can produce intense emotions powerful enough to draw out a writer in almost anyone.

Whatever it is, I'd love to hear about it! Comment below and maybe though this discussion we can mutually inspire one another!

A little vacation...

You may or may not know this, but aside from my day job working at a church I also run a small photography business! This last weekend I was out of town shooting a wedding in beautiful Northern California.

I had such a wonderful time up there catching up with my family and then photographing the wedding at the amazing location up in the mountains just past Etna, California.

After that, I came back to Southern California and my parents drove down to spend some time with me.  Due to that, I skipped {Writer Wednesday} this week and am using this little post as an update for this week instead.

Just yesterday I launched a stylized shoot of photos I took and thought I'd share a few here for your viewing enjoyment.  Photos like these inspire me to write - especially if the end goal is a wedding. To view the full post of this session click [here].  

Do photos or beautiful scenery inspire you to write?

A Monday Mindset {Thinking Theology}

I've been thinking about how some people dread Mondays.  When I was in school I used to - it meant the end of the weekend and the beginning of a tough week of work and stress.  Some of that was lost when I worked a job in retail - you don't really get weekends and if you do they can sometimes be on a Tuesday or other weekday (so I guess Mondays can really be any day of the week). I did, however, feel that pang of disappointment when my "weekend" time-off ended and I had to go back to work. 

With my current job (Office Manager for my church) I find (thankfully) that I don't have that dread of going into work.  My week is technically Sunday to Thursday, so I guess you could say Sunday is my "Monday" (just to make things confusing), but in all reality I enjoy Mondays.  For us, it's the day we come together as staff to pray for one another and the church, to discuss our upcoming week and its duties, and to spend time encouraging one another.  It's a great way to start off our week, and as I think about it, I know that I'd want to incorporate that habit no matter where I worked. 

My thoughts for you this Monday morning:

• What are you thankful for today? 
• What do you have to accomplish and how can you make prayer about that part of your daily routine? 
• How can you encourage those you work with this week?

To me, Mondays are like little New Years that happen every week.  We get a fresh start (hopefully after a break during the weekend) and have the choice to remember the joy and grace the Lord has bestowed on us as a way to bless others.

What will your Monday look like?