There’s friend zone, seen zone, and then there’s writing comfort zone.
And right now you’re in the zone . . that zone.
It’s comfortable. You’re used to it. You probably have every nook and crevice memorized like the back of your hand.
Before you know it, you’re stuck in a rut—generic characters with different names, of course, familiar plots with a twist on the side, same old sad backstories of unrequited love or abuse every single time.
You’re so far into the rut, you can do it with your eyes closed.
We get it. It’s tough breaking away from what’s convenient.
Let’s make it easier with these steps:
- Do not let fear get to you
You are venturing out into the unknown. Of course, there will be fear, a lot of it. That’s normal.
Try to stay positive. What’s the worst that could happen? You’d suck at it? Take it as a learning experience. There’s everything to gain from it.
- Start a new pattern
Deviate from your usual. Use writing prompts to help you do this. They can help generate new ideas and completely different scenarios. These prompts will help get the ball rolling. Like they say, “The beginning is always the hardest.”
- Read something different
Switch up your reading choice a bit. Try different genres. If you fancy chick-lit, go for psychological thrillers or historical fiction. It is quite a leap in a different direction but this can open your mind and improve creativity.
- Travel
Plan a quick getaway somewhere you’ve never been. The change of scenery may inspire you and get those wheels turning.
It may even help you with the setting of your book and all those little details that make all the difference.
- Interact more
Conversing with people can give you fresh insight. It can help give depth to your writing as you weave their individual nuances, emotions, and unique backstories into your next character.
- Do you
Be true to yourself. If a certain storyline speaks to you, write it. Do you. Write what you want. Let your story reflect who you are as a writer.
Congratulations on successfully getting out of your writing comfort zone! Go explore more horizons. Let your passion bring out the best in you and fill that blank sheet to overflowing.