Finding Inspiration

​By Jade

When attempting to find a topic to write about for this month, I was stumped. I couldn’t think of anything. Finding inspiration for any type of writing can be tough, especially if you are experiencing ‘writer’s block.’ 

A lack of inspiration can stem from a variety of reasons including boredom, environment and emotions. 

Here are a few tips that have come in handy when I find myself dealing with writer’s block

1. For creative writing, I find it helpful to use prompts. When using this tactic, try to keep in mind that not all creative writing prompts will stimulate ideas for a story. It might take a few, or even ten prompts! Your end product might not even be related to the prompt, but they can be excellent sources of information. I've written a few articles here at TWE that contain many creative writing prompts that I’ve created myself. Check out my superpower-themed one here and my fantasy and sci-fi ones here.
2. For articles regarding experience, ideas tend to come to me easily, compared to other types of writing. A lot of people believe that it takes a life-changing experience to make their experience worth discussing. When it comes to targeting a teenager-based audience, I like to write about things that I encounter daily. Sometimes, it's important to use relatable topics in your writing. Hobbies, service and even your own learning experience at school can all be engaging topics to write about. Do you play a musical instrument or do a sport at school? For articles about your experience, the possibilities are endless. Sure, it may be difficult to narrow it down to just one  at first, but writing about your experiences can be one of the easiest ways to find inspiration.
3. Utilize your surroundings. Stephen King, an acclaimed horror author, once spoke about how “a creaking door gave him inspiration.” Sometimes, the most ordinary objects can be indicators of sinister danger lurking around the corner. 
4. Read other people’s writing. One of the most interesting things I’ve discovered is that reading another person's writing can benefit your writer’s block. According to a study done by the University of Graz (located in Austria), “individuals who read other people’s creative works came up with more original ideas compared to individuals with no exposure to other people’s creative works.”

These are all great ways to find inspiration hidden within you.. How else do you find inspiration? Let me know in the comments below!​