Introducing "Mr. Limpet"
For those of us who write, sometimes it can be difficult to come up with “just the right word” for our novel, a post, a letter, etc.
Those of you who know me, know that I’m rarely at a loss for words. I love to talk, make new friends, and tap on the trusty keyboard. Occasionally, however, coming up with just the right word for a particular passage of dialogue can give me a brain freeze. When I’m actually conversing with someone, I don’t seem to have that problem as much. It’s probably because there’s a huge difference between seeing a human face versus a blank page. (Although judging by some foolishness we see these days in this old world, there are instances where I have to wonder if those two can be one in the same!)
I think in order to keep the creativity flowing, it’s indeed necessary to exercise the mind. In fact, there is scientific evidence that suggests keeping one’s mind active can slow the progression of early onset dementia, as well as other medical conditions and diseases.
Exercising our brain power on a daily basis makes us better writers, too. Here are some things I do frequently to keep the thoughts (and words) flowing:
1. Glance through my deskside Thesaurus.
2. Read passages of a favorite book or magazine.
3. Pay bills–that always gets me psyched!
4. Visit fellow author and inspirational blogs.
5. Make trips to the local library. (To soak up atmosphere.)
6. Work crossword puzzles or do word searches.
7. Meditate on favorite scriptures.
8. List long-term/short-term goals.
9. Study new recipes.
10. Write (of course!)
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A question for you to think about…What are some ways that you keep your juices flowing?
Comments 6
reading this was inspiration to me – just so you know. i’m one of those 18-year-olds who are mature for her age way beyond her years. i’m working on my first novel and i get writer’s block a lot. haha. so thanks for giving me that list. it really helped!!
Author
Annie, perseverance really is key. Continue writing, study your craft, hone your skills by taking writing courses, and join writer’s organizations. Since writing can really be a solitary world, it’s important to network with like-minded people. Write something daily; never let anyone tell you that it can’t be done. If God has instilled within you the desire to write, then obviously, you have a gift that’s just waiting to be opened. Happy writing! 🙂
Paying bills? Really? I find that intriguing. I’m with you on crossword puzzles and I try to read a wide range of books–Christian and otherwise. I also find talking to new people stimulating. I take Thistle to the dog park about once a week and I always end up chatting with someone new and interesting–even odd on occaision! I think tailoring conversation to an unexpected audience can tap otherwise unused bits of the brain. It’s also amazing for gathering material : )
Author
I, too, like meeting new people, Sarah! I also enjoy “people-watching” and gathering tidbits from their body language, their demeanors, and yes, even their conversations they might be having with fellow dog walkers. 🙂
Oh, the paying the bills thing…numbers keep my mind active!
Mr. Limpet is a handsome fellow. Betas are so colorful.
“Learning to draw” exercises are good for freeing the mind. I was writing “morning pages” for awhile, and miss that. Getting out for a walk is always good; need to carry pen and paper along because sometimes words start flowing, and I’m afraid I’ll forget them by the time I get back home.
Author
Yes, I know the feeling, Patti! I even keep little notebooks in the nightstand beside the bed should sudden inspiration strike!