How to Stay Stimulated as a Freelance Writer

Even the best writers in the world occasionally run into roadblocks that stifle the natural flow of words. They can range from simple cases of writer’s block to a dried-up reservoir of ideas. Either way, it can be difficult to stay stimulated during those times. If you run into these problems, here are a few ways for you to, once again, dazzle readers with your insights.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Keep informed. Whether you are researching material for a piece, or simply taking time out to broaden your knowledge about a particular subject, the old adage always applies: the more you know, the more you can write about. Not only do we broaden our vocabulary by reading, we might also discover new ideas that can make great writing subjects.
2. Explore common conflicts. Problems have a way of finding us, so write about them. The economy is on everyone’s mind these days, and people are coping with it in many different ways. Write about how you are being affected by rising prices, jeopardy with your job, or the wayward stock market, and give examples of how you are dealing with them.
3. Write about previously-covered subjects, but from different points of view. For example, let’s say you’re writing about golf. You can write an instruction piece on the right way to hit with a driver. Or you can write about the best courses you have ever played at. Alternatively, you can write about how you got started playing the game, and the most interesting people you've ever played with. It will amaze you how many ways you can approach any given subject, and you will stay fresh as a result.
4. Read magazines and e-zines specifically written for writers. They tend to be well-written and are chock-full of ideas that may stimulate you. They also contain a boatload of tips on how to find subject matter and how to become more efficient.
5. Write articles on topics that truly interest you. If a topic is interesting to you, then it will probably be interesting to your readers too.
6. Be disciplined. If you are a freelance writer, prepare a schedule and stick to it. Set aside a specific number of hours each day to write and do not let anything interfere with your plan. Make believe that you have a real job--because you do.

Tips & Warnings

• Everyone each day has to deal with problems that reduce their creative motivation. When people write about solutions to those problems, there is always some publisher willing to buy the articles.
• Mostly though, enjoy your gift of words. You have a rare talent to bring even the most pedestrian subject to life.