10 Ways You Can Stay True To Your Work

Writing was never an easy task. Even if you have a clear idea in your mind, grasping it can be quite difficult sometimes. Besides, you can find it hard to pick the right words to deliver your message. That is when frustration will start to kick in, and you will probably start procrastinating, feeling guilty and blaming yourself, which will result in even more negativity. Whether you are new to writing, or if you have been writing for a while, you will most likely recognize this situation. But how can you resolve this issue and get back on track?

Predictably, it all comes down to self-control and willpower, as suggested by Angela Duckworth from the University of Pennsylvania. According to her research, most of us give up at the first sign of failure and confusion, while resilience is the key to success. So here are some writing tips that you will find helpful in this scenario.

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Stick to Your Purpose

The number one advice for writers: remember that your goals are the ultimate source of motivation. Especially with bigger projects we often tend to get caught up in smaller tasks and forget about the general vision, which made us start working in the first place.

Try to keep your purpose in mind at all times. That will help you persevere with your writing with energy and enthusiasm.

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Encourage Yourself

Although this might seem like another cheesy beginner writer advice, it is highly effective.

If you are one of those people that tend to beat themselves up after every single mistake, the truth is: you are less likely to succeed. Concentrating on your mistakes and weaknesses will only drop your confidence and won’t let you return to your work.

On the other hand, cheering yourself up with a bit of positive self-talk will encourage you to continue your work and do your best.

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Don’t Focus Only on Performance

It might seem strange, but focusing on your performance throughout your work is never a good idea. Just like with the previous example, stressing over whether or not your writing is good will only discourage you. Try focusing on your final goal and keep on writing. You can always fix your mistakes and perfect your writing in the end. Remember, no great writers succeeded from the very first try.

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Take a Break

You might think that staying up all night to finish your project is a good idea. However, it will result in lack of energy, and eventually procrastination and frustration the next day. Therefore, in order to make the best out of your time, especially if you are new to writing, take small breaks every 2-2.5 hours. Stretch a bit, have a snack, and let your brain rest before continuing on the great work.

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Plan Things Ahead

Planning can seem a bit strange: writing is perceived as more of an emotional job, where you have to “feel like it”. Nevertheless, planning is the best advice for writers, especially if you are taking on a big project. A clear outline will help you have everything under control. Not to mention, after completing every task, you will feel better about yourself and will be more motivated to continue.

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Distinguish Between Personal Matters and Work

Unfortunately, we all have our bad days sometimes. But your personal matters and emotions should never interfere with your work: you are more likely to procrastinate if you are in a bad mood. So teach yourself how to control your emotions as much as possible if you desire success.

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Reward Yourself

You will definitely stay motivated and keep on with the hard work if you know there is an immediate reward waiting for you. It does not have to be something big, but it does need to be something pleasurable. For example, if you like watching shows, take a break and watch an episode after every 1000 or 2000 words written. You will see how excited you will be to finish your work.

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Take Care of Your Energy

If you are feeling tired and demotivated all the time, chances are you have a poor diet. No matter how cheesy it sounds, but a healthy diet, sleep and exercise routine can change a lot. You will start feeling more energetic, refreshed, and enthusiastic whenever you start taking care of your body.

A similar advice for online writers especially: take care to look up from the computer screen from time to time and look around. That will help soothe your eyes, and you’ll get back to work more refreshed.

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Change Your Spot

Whenever you are feeling tired or demotivated, care enough to try a new writing spot: a coffee shop, a bench in the park, the porch, wherever, as long as you are feeling comfortable to continue.

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It’s All about the Experience

Try to make your writing process a pleasant experience: grab some coffee, turn on some music, make yourself comfortable and wrap yourself up in a blanket if you need to. A nice setting will boost your energy and motivation to keep on with the hard work.