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M.K. Carpenter's avatar

Lots of different ways depending on the problem. If I lack direction, I try to step back and remember what my point is. If it lacks personality, I relate a personal anecdote. If I'm really stuck and still can't find the spark, I'll ask a fellow writer friend who is familiar with my writing and she'll usually cut to the heart of it pretty quickly.

Sometimes, I just need to take a break. I'll go for a walk, or spend my usual writing time playing a video game, or get some dishes done while not-thinking.

Sometimes these things just have to percolate. To run with the coffee metaphor, if you're pouring hot water through used-up grounds, the result is gonna be weak at best.

A piece of advice I often give fellow writer friends in a similar situation to you is to take a day where you're not allowed to write at all. You can think about writing, or yearn to write, or make a quick note of what the problem might be if that inspiration comes to you, but you're not allowed to actually Write.

I hope something I've said helps, and that your mojo returns soon!

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Elizabeth Eugene's avatar

I take a nature break -- trail run, walk, ride my horse, go pull some weeds, whatever. Your brain needs that and the science backs me up. Do something that requires your full attention. Your writing brain will be spinning away without any input from you. Then you go back to your work with an entirely different mindset. Good luck. I hate sloggy writing periods! :-P

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