Finding Inspiration: Ways to Fuel Your Novel Writing Journey

Finding inspiration is something we writers often discuss. Writers face many obstacles. When you hit a wall, are up against a deadline, or are just looking for fresh ideas, where do you go for inspiration?

I recently conducted a survey on social media asking how writers find inspiration. Do you find yourself in these answers?

• reading
• music
• research
• writer friends
• gardening
• journaling
• praying
• walks/nature

Writing a novel requires inspiration and motivation. And sometimes it’s hard to come by either one (or both). Whether you’re working on your first novel or seeking to reignite your passion for writing, here are several effective strategies to inspire your creative process:

Reading helps in finding inspiration

Read Voraciously – Reading widely across genres sparks new ideas. Books that resonate with your interests and genres you haven’t explored before both get your creative juices flowing.

Reading and writing, like everything else, improve with practice. ~ Margaret Atwood

Explore Real-Life Experiences – Draw inspiration from your own life or the experiences of others. Personal stories often provide authentic material that can enrich your characters and plot with depth and realism.

One of my favorite places is Fort Pickens on Pensacola Beach. And I’m using it in Book #2 in the Empty-nesters Cozy Mystery Series – Where’s the Quetzal? The tunnel in this picture is from the fort!

Keep a Writing Journal – Use your journal to capture ideas, observations, and snippets of dialogue. Jot down inspirations that come to you throughout the day, whether during a walk in nature, a conversation with a friend, or while daydreaming. Reviewing your journal can reveal connections and insights that inspire new storylines or scenes.

Engage in Creative Exercises – Use writing prompts, exercises, or challenges to stimulate your creativity. Prompts are excellent springboards for exploring different narrative styles, character dynamics, or plot twists.

Immerse Yourself in Nature – Nature has a soothing effect that can clear your mind and inspire creativity. Take walks in parks, hike trails, or simply sit outdoors to observe the beauty of your surroundings. Take pictures and free-write what you’re feeling.

Other ways of finding inspiration:

• Listen to Music – Music evokes emotions and imagery. Create playlists that reflect the mood or atmosphere of scenes you’re writing or wish to explore.

• Experiment with Different Writing Locations – Changing your writing environment can invigorate your creativity. Visit local coffee shops, libraries, or quiet corners of your home to find a space where you feel inspired and focused. Alternating between different locations can prevent monotony and encourage fresh perspectives.

• Seek Inspiration from Art and Media – Explore visual art, films, documentaries, or theater productions for inspiration. Visual storytelling and thematic elements in art forms beyond literature can stimulate ideas for character development, plot twists, or thematic exploration in your novel.

• Connect with Other Writers – Engage with fellow writers through writing groups, workshops, or online communities. Share ideas, seek feedback, and discuss challenges and successes in your writing journey. Collaborating with peers can provide encouragement, accountability, and fresh insights that fuel your creative energy. This is my favorite way to find inspiration.

What’s your favorite way to find inspiration?

Writing a novel is an ongoing journey that requires curiosity, exploration, and a willingness to embrace creativity from various sources. Incorporating these strategies into your writing routine, helps you nurture inspiration, overcome creative blocks, and bring depth and vitality to your story. Reflecting on your writing goals, aspirations, and the impact you wish your novel to have on readers also keeps you inspired. Remember, inspiration can be found in unexpected places—embrace the journey of discovery as you craft your novel with passion and purpose.

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Hi, I’m Jen! I’ve been married for over 37 years, have 5 amazing kids and 3 adorable grandkids. I homeschooled our three youngest children, and I used to blog about homeschooling. I also taught Oral Communication as an adjunct instructor for over 5 years.

Jen Dodrill Writes is born of a passion of mine – to write a novel! My first cozy mystery, Birds Alive!, released Feb. 27, 2024!

When I’m not working, you’ll find me writing, spending time with my family, or curled up on the couch reading and drinking a mug of dark roast coffee. (Don’t forget to check out my mug shop – JDMugs!)