We all struggle at times to with writer's block, so I thought I would share some tips that have worked for me over the last couple of years.
1) Noticeboard. I have one near my desk and when I read anything that inspires me I cut it out and pin it to the noticeboard. This may be a story, a quote, a blog posting,a picture - anything that stokes emotion in me and causes me to think.
2) Notebook. I am never without my trusty notebook. When I am inspired by something I see, ideas from (1), conversations I write them down….before planning shows I look through all the ideas that I have been having…if you don’t write them down then you can lose some of the best ideas that you ever had!
3) Blogs. I use Google Reader to subscribe to many blogs. These blogs are not just in my chosen area, they cover marketing, news, psychology, management, nature, hobbies etc…..and it keeps me thinking wider than my usual sphere.
4) Books. I know this sounds old fashioned but I still like to read, especially before I go to sleep. When I am reading I use either my notebook or the little highlighter tabs to earmark ideas I want to explore from my own perspective.
5) Podcasts. Again as in (3) my iTunes collection is filled with an array of different subjects, with one aim to inspire my thoughts.
6) Networks. Speaking to other people really inspires me, bouncing ideas, exploring concepts…..is a great way to stimulate the mind. If you normally podcast alone, try inviting someone on the show to talk with you about a subject and just feel the increased energy.
7) I look at objects and think about how they relate to my podcast. So for example I am now looking at my keyboard! So that immediately makes me think of putting key objectives for the week on a noticeboard for the team! (The Engaging Brand podcast coaches leaders to boost profits through engaging people)
thanks for this great list. I am just setting up my office and will be putting up a notice board. I've heard these called idea boards too...;) I am very interested in getting my podcasts edited by the way, I have 3 recorded and haven't had the patience to edit them, any tips for how to motivate myself to finish the projects!?
Posted by: Kelly King Anderson | June 29, 2007 at 08:05 PM
Oh great question....I would say too things
1) Don't be too piccy about the editing, a few mistakes give it a human feeling...you are looking for listenability rather than perfection
2) I try and think about the value of the show and how it will feel when I get it out there rather than editing. It is a step on the way to you creating value in the world.
What is it about editing that takes the time for you?
Posted by: Anna Farmery | July 01, 2007 at 10:06 PM