#TensList: 10 Ways To Avoid Writing

Sometimes, writing feels like you’ve turned into a dog with a bone. You can’t stop. You’re obessesed. Other times…you’ll do just about anything to avoid it for one reason or another.

Why? for me, it’s usually finishing a series or facing a deadline that makes me want to hide from my computer. So, what can you do to avoid writing when you need a break?

#1

Watch Supernatural. Seriously, Sam and Dean (mostly Dean) can take you’re mind off anything.

#2

Read a book. When I’m really burnt out on writing, I pick up someone else’s book and let them do all the work for a while. If it’s good, I’ll want to write because I’ve been inspired. If it sucks, I’ll still want to write because I’ll want to prove there’s something better out there.

#3

Do some yard work. Seriously, you’ll be too tired to think or write when you fnally sit back down.

#4

Bake. Cookies, brownies, cake…do you really need a reason to make yummy snacks anyway? You can always share with your fellow writing buddies in an inspiration session if you want.

#5

Draw. Okay, maybe this isn’t for everyone, but use it as therapy to vent your writing frustration. Sketch out an action scene with stick figures. Make your character look ridiculous in payment for driving you crazy. Trust me, it’s fun 🙂

#6

Take some pictures. Whether you’re the master of Instagram, only take pictures on your phone, or are sporting a Nikon D-200, take your creativity out of the office and get out and find something that will inspire you to get back to writing.

#7

Break out the sticky notes! Organize your to-do lists, events, thoughts, whatever needs organizing. Forcing your thoughts to stay focused will shut out all those nagging “you should be writing” whispers.

#8

Play video games. Hours gone. No writing done. You’re welcome 🙂

#9

Be social. I’m not talking social media, either. Go have lunch with a friend. Get away from the computer and talk to some real people for a while. You’ll be amazed how much it will help with writing drudgery.

#10

If you’re really desperate to avoid writing, work on marketing. This will suck up lots of time, but it will be useful! Read some articles, work on your marketing plan.

Get out of your own head for a while and give your characters a break. They need it as much as you do.