Isabella Taylor
There are a lot of ways to start putting pen to paper, but a couple of them are easier than others. You could always write a blog post or a short story, but where do you get the inspiration for something like that? I’ve compiled a couple of ways I like to jump back into writing. Whether it be an article or an essay for a class, you should never feel like you have to dive in cold turkey.
No. One Morning Pages
While this practice might be foreign to most people, I try to write every morning for about 30 minutes (about 3 large pages) before doing anything else. These don’t have to be anything fancy, and I would really recommend dumping everything out of your head without thinking too hard on what you’re putting into words. Not only should you keep these hidden away where no one can sneak a peek (I’m serious, if you want this exercise to work, no one can read it!), but you shouldn’t read through your pages much on your own.Â
I try to do this every morning, and when I do, I really feel a difference throughout the day. My thoughts are more organized, I can really get a To-Do list out, and I usually start writing creatively at some point every morning. I originally read about this idea in “The Artist’s Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity” by Julia Cameron. This book really highlights why Morning Pages are important, and it includes numerous other writing practices.
No. Two Weekly Stories
While I was in the 7th grade, I really came to appreciate a writing practice my teacher prescribed for me. She instructed my peers and I to write a weekly short story that we would file off in our composition notebooks for good. None of these were very long, and I never paid too much attention to the characters or storyline, but it was a wonderful way to boost my creativity routinely.
I would recommend writing for about 10 minutes a day on a fictional (or creative nonfiction) story of your own fabrication, and just work on it for about a week. If you like the story, keep adding to it! If you don’t, move on next week. It’s really up to you with this one.
No. Three Stationery
I know the digital age is truly consuming humanity, and honestly, it’s just easier sometimes to crank out an email through your computer, but a set of aesthetically pleasing stationery is really a game-changer! I have a couple sets of my own: one with my personal information (for Thank You notes), one with lavender decor (from my mother) and one with cute little bear decorations (for personal use). Whether you’re trying to let an executive know you appreciated their time, or send a heartfelt letter to your sister, a set of nice stationery could be just the incentive you need to start writing!
Here’s a link to one of my favorite stationery sets by Good Juju Ink!
It’s never too late to get into writing, and it’s never too late to start a new routine. Whether you want to become the next Stephen King or practice better penmanship for your shopping lists, a good routine and a will to write are all you really need to get started! If you want some solid writing experience and have a story to tell or information to get out, consider writing for Her Campus at Clemson. We’re always looking for new members!