Category: writing-tips

February 2025, writing-tips

Dark Fantasy vs. Dark-Themed Fiction: What’s the Difference?

Sara's Writing Sanctuary

If you’re unsure about the difference between Dark Fantasy and Dark-Themed Fiction, this post is for you. Both genres explore dark and gritty storytelling, but they serve different narrative purposes. Let’s break down what sets them apart and how they appeal to readers.

What Is Dark Fantasy?

Dark Fantasy is a subgenre of fantasy that incorporates elements of horror, gothic aesthetics, and moral ambiguity. Unlike traditional fantasy, where good and evil are often clearly defined, Dark Fantasy thrives in shades of gray.

Key Elements of Dark Fantasy:

  • Supernatural and Mythical Creatures – Vampires, demons, eldritch beings, and corrupted gods often make appearances.
  • Gothic or Grim Aesthetics – The settings are often eerie, mist-covered, and dripping with decay or malevolent beauty.
  • Moral Ambiguity – Heroes may commit questionable acts, and villains may have sympathetic motives.
  • Tragic and Macabre Themes – Suffering, curses, forbidden knowledge, and fates worse than death are common.
  • Dark Magic and Corruption – Magic isn’t necessarily a force for good; it can be twisted, dangerous, and come at a terrible price.

Examples of Dark Fantasy:

  • The Sandman by Neil Gaiman
  • The Black Company by Glen Cook
  • The Broken Empire series by Mark Lawrence
  • A Song of Ice and Fire by George R.R. Martin (though more of a dark, low fantasy blend)

What Is Dark-Themed Fiction?

Dark-Themed Fiction isn’t necessarily fantasy—it spans multiple genres, including horror, thriller, dystopian, and literary fiction. Unlike Dark Fantasy, these stories don’t require supernatural elements but instead explore the darker aspects of human nature, society, and psychological torment.

Key Elements of Dark-Themed Fiction:

  • Psychological Darkness – Themes of despair, mental illness, trauma, and existential dread are common.
  • Real-World Horror – Monsters aren’t always supernatural; they might be corrupt governments, serial killers, or the cruelty of fate.
  • Moral and Ethical Quandaries – Often presents bleak realities and difficult choices with no clear right answer.
  • Atmospheric and Gritty Settings – Often dystopian, noir, or bleak modern worlds filled with tension and decay.
  • Complex, Flawed Characters – Protagonists are often antiheroes or deeply broken individuals.

Examples of Dark-Themed Fiction:

  • The Road by Cormac McCarthy (Post-apocalyptic existential horror)
  • Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn (Psychological thriller)
  • 1984 by George Orwell (Dystopian, societal horror)
  • American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis (Satirical horror)

How Do They Differ?

FeatureDark FantasyDark-Themed Fiction
Supernatural ElementsEssentialNot necessary
GenreFantasy, HorrorAny (Thriller, Dystopian, Literary, etc.)
SettingOtherworldly or alternate historicalOften real-world or near-future
MonstersLiteral creatures or dark forcesPsychological or societal “monsters”
ToneMacabre, mysterious, sometimes gothicPsychological, unsettling, existential

Which One Is Right for Your Story?

If you’re a writer considering which genre suits your idea, ask yourself:

  • Does your story need magic, monsters, or mythical creatures? → Dark Fantasy
  • Are the horrors in your story purely psychological, societal, or existential? → Dark-Themed Fiction
  • Do you want a mix of both? Some books, like The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde, straddle the line between supernatural horror and deep psychological exploration.

Final Thoughts

Both Dark Fantasy and Dark-Themed Fiction delve into the shadows, but they do so in different ways. Whether you’re drawn to the eerie allure of haunted castles and dark sorcery, or the bleak realism of a world gone wrong, these genres offer rich storytelling potential.

Which genre do you prefer? Let’s discuss in the comments.

Happy Writing ^_^

February 2025, writing-tips

Exploring Dark Themes in Writing: Where’s the Line?

Sara's Writing Sanctuary

Disclaimer: This article discusses sensitive topics, including trauma, mental illness, and violence, which may be triggering for some readers. Please engage with the content at your discretion.

Fiction has long been a vessel for exploring the depths of human experience, including the darkness that often lingers at the edges of our consciousness. From horror and psychological thrillers to literary fiction that delves into the complexities of trauma and mental illness, dark themes serve a critical role in storytelling. But where should writers draw the line? And how can these themes be handled responsibly while still enriching a story?

The Purpose of Dark Themes in Fiction

Dark themes in fiction can serve multiple purposes, including:

  • Exploring the Human Condition – Stories that tackle sensitive subjects like grief, loss, abuse, or existential dread allow readers to confront and process difficult emotions in a controlled setting.
  • Building Tension and Emotional Depth – High-stakes narratives keep readers engaged, and dark themes often provide compelling conflicts that drive character development.
  • Encouraging Empathy – Fiction can illuminate perspectives that might otherwise remain unseen, helping readers understand the experiences of those who have suffered trauma, discrimination, or hardship.
  • Creating Catharsis – For both writers and readers, engaging with dark material can provide an emotional release, offering closure or healing through storytelling.
  • Strengthening Emotional Connection – Dark themes allow readers to connect to the story on an emotional level when they see characters with flaws or can relate to the scenes in some way. Realistic struggles make the narrative more compelling and immersive.

Where’s the Line?

While dark themes can be powerful tools, writers must consider ethical and emotional boundaries. Here are key factors to keep in mind:

1. Intention and Purpose

Ask yourself: Why am I including this theme? Shock value alone is rarely enough to justify deeply distressing content. Instead, dark themes should serve the plot, deepen character arcs, or challenge readers in a meaningful way.

2. Representation and Sensitivity

If your story deals with topics like abuse, mental illness, or systemic oppression, research is essential. Misrepresenting real-life issues can reinforce harmful stereotypes or trivialize suffering. Sensitivity readers, professionals, or firsthand accounts can help ensure accuracy and respectful handling of these subjects.

3. Avoiding Gratuitous Depictions

There’s a fine line between necessary darkness and excessive violence, gore, or despair. Detailed depictions of violence, sexual assault, or cruelty should serve a narrative purpose rather than exist purely for shock. Suggesting horror or pain rather than graphically displaying it can often be more effective.

4. Trigger Warnings and Reader Consideration

While not every piece of fiction needs a content warning, some stories, particularly those dealing with highly sensitive material, may benefit from a foreword or disclaimer. This allows readers to make an informed choice about engaging with your work.

5. Hope, Resolution, and Balance

Dark stories don’t have to end happily, but they should offer something meaningful—whether that’s a lesson, a glimmer of hope, or a sense of justice. Balancing darkness with light moments, character resilience, or even poetic justice can make heavy themes more palatable and impactful.

How Dark Themes Benefit Fiction

When handled well, dark themes elevate stories in several ways:

  • They Make Characters More Relatable – Readers connect with flawed, struggling characters who experience real pain and growth.
  • They Add Depth to Worldbuilding – Darkness often exists within societies, and acknowledging it makes fictional worlds feel more authentic.
  • They Challenge Readers – Confronting difficult topics can provoke thought, discussion, and greater awareness about real-world issues.
  • They Leave a Lasting Impact – Stories that embrace darkness while offering meaningful takeaways often stay with readers long after they turn the final page.
  • They Deepen Emotional Engagement – When readers see characters overcoming adversity or navigating difficult experiences, they form stronger emotional bonds with the story. This sense of connection enhances the overall reading experience.

Final Thoughts

Writing dark themes is not about glorifying suffering but about exploring the complexities of life, offering insight, and creating compelling narratives. The key is responsibility—ensuring that difficult topics are treated with care, research, and intent. Writers who approach these themes thoughtfully can craft powerful, unforgettable stories that resonate deeply with readers while still respecting ethical boundaries.

How do you approach dark themes in your writing? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Happy Writing ^_^

February 2025, writing-tips

How Nature Inspires My Writing

Sara's Writing Sanctuary

Nature has always been a source of inspiration for me, a wellspring of creativity that fuels my imagination and deepens my connection to storytelling. From the rhythmic cycles of the moon to the quiet whispers of the forest, nature provides endless metaphors, symbols, and emotions that shape my writing in profound ways.

The Moon and My Creative Flow

The moon, with its phases and gentle pull on the tides, mirrors the ebb and flow of my creative process. Just as the full moon illuminates the night, I find that certain phases of the moon bring clarity and bursts of inspiration, while others encourage introspection and revision. I align my writing with these cycles, using the waxing moon to build momentum in my drafts and the waning moon to edit and refine my work. The symbolism of the moon—transformation, mystery, and renewal—often finds its way into my stories, especially in themes of personal growth and self-discovery.

The Energy of the Natural World

Whether it’s the gentle rustling of leaves, the rhythmic crashing of ocean waves, or the grounding presence of towering trees, nature surrounds me with a symphony of sensations that awaken my creativity. The changing seasons influence the tone of my writing: spring’s renewal brings fresh ideas, summer’s vibrancy fuels energy, autumn’s decay inspires introspection, and winter’s stillness invites deep reflection. The cycles of nature remind me that creativity, like life, moves in patterns of growth, rest, and rebirth.

Symbolism and Storytelling

The natural world offers a treasure trove of symbols that enrich my stories. The phases of the moon often reflect a character’s journey—waxing towards discovery, full with realization, and waning into transformation. The elements—earth, water, fire, and air—add depth to my characters and settings, with earth grounding them, water representing emotions, fire symbolizing passion, and air embodying intellect and change. Drawing from these natural elements, I weave a sense of magic, mysticism, and wonder into my writing, creating worlds that feel alive and interconnected.

Ideas for Nature-Inspired Stories

  1. A lost traveler who follows the moon’s phases to find their way home, unlocking mystical secrets along the journey.
  2. A hidden forest that exists only during the solstices, revealing ancient knowledge to those who enter.
  3. A protagonist who can hear the whispers of the wind, using them to solve mysteries or communicate with the spirit world.
  4. A city where the changing of the seasons directly affects the emotions and memories of its inhabitants.
  5. A river that carries messages from the past, guiding a character toward an unknown destiny.
  6. A healer who gathers herbs under specific moon phases, each plant containing a unique magical property.
  7. A cursed land where time resets each autumn, forcing the main character to break the cycle before winter arrives.

Writing in Harmony with Nature

Beyond inspiration, nature also provides a space for writing. I find solace in writing outdoors, letting the wind guide my thoughts and the sun warm my words. Walking through the woods, sitting by a stream, or gazing at the night sky helps me clear mental clutter and tune into my creative intuition. Nature reminds me to slow down, listen, and observe, which strengthens my ability to craft vivid, immersive stories.

Embracing the Natural Muse

My love for nature and moon cycles is more than an aesthetic preference—it’s a spiritual connection that breathes life into my words. By honoring the wisdom of the earth and the celestial rhythms of the moon, I tap into a timeless source of inspiration that fuels my creativity. Whether I’m writing about mythical beings under a full moon’s glow or capturing the quiet melancholy of falling autumn leaves, nature continues to be my muse, guiding me through each phase of my storytelling journey.

Happy Writing ^_^

February 2025, writing-tips

Overcoming Writer’s Block – Lessons from My Personal Struggles

Sara's Writing Sanctuary

Over the years, I’ve learned that writer’s block doesn’t always have one clear cause—or one simple solution. Sometimes, you need to find your own way through it, and other times, you need a spark of inspiration to push you forward. For me, my mental struggles and health challenges have often been the biggest roadblocks to my creativity.

I’ve faced periods where no words would come, no matter how hard I tried. It wasn’t just about not knowing what to write—it was about feeling drained, physically and emotionally. When pain flared up, exhaustion settled in, or my mind felt foggy, my creativity seemed to shut down. The pressure to “just write” only made it worse.

But I found something that helped: living. Not just going through the motions, but doing things that made me feel free, engaged, and most importantly—myself. Reading books, watching a great story unfold, or simply stepping away from writing to experience life again often brought back the words that had gone silent.

Here are a few things that have helped me overcome writer’s block:

  1. Let Go of Guilt – Writing doesn’t always have to be productive. Sometimes, stepping back is the best way to move forward.
  2. Find Inspiration in Small Things – A song, a walk in nature, or even a conversation can stir up ideas in ways you wouldn’t expect.
  3. Change Your Routine – If you’re stuck, shake things up. Try writing in a different place, at a different time, or in a different format.
  4. Give Yourself Permission to Write Badly – Perfectionism is a creativity killer. Just write, even if it feels messy. You can always edit later.
  5. Do Something You Love – Passion fuels creativity. Engaging in activities you enjoy, whether reading, gaming, or crafting, can recharge your mind.
  6. Live Freely – The more you allow yourself to be who you truly are, without holding back, the more your writing will flow naturally.

Writer’s block isn’t a dead end—it’s just a detour. And sometimes, the best way through it isn’t forcing yourself to write, but finding a way to feel again.

Happy Writing ^_^

About Myself, February 2025, writing-tips

Lessons from a Work-in-Progress

Sara's Writing Sanctuary

While working on my story today, I realized that as a pantser, writing often takes me down unexpected paths. Even if I didn’t plan for certain twists, my characters seem to have something to tell me. Whether it’s about the depth of their relationships or the future they are meant to have, the story reveals insights I hadn’t considered.

Beyond plot and character revelations, writing teaches in many ways. It challenges patience when scenes don’t flow as expected and fosters resilience when rewrites are needed. It deepens understanding of emotions and human nature, as characters’ struggles often mirror real-life experiences. Sometimes, a story teaches by exposing personal fears, hopes, or desires, forcing a writer to reflect. Other times, it’s in the research—uncovering historical details, mythology, or psychological truths that expand both the story and the writer’s knowledge.

Even the scenes that get deleted serve a purpose. They help explore a character’s voice, test different emotional beats, or develop backstory that may not make it into the final draft but still enriches the worldbuilding and character depth. Those discarded moments are never wasted; they contribute to the journey, guiding the story toward what it’s truly meant to be.

Writing is always a journey of discovery, uncovering lessons that weren’t planned but were waiting to be found.

Tell me in the comments—how does your writing speak to you? Have your characters ever surprised you with a direction you didn’t expect?

Happy Writing ^_^

January 2025, writing-tips

Journaling for Writers: 50+ Prompts to Spark Creativity and Inspiration

Sara's Writing Sanctuary

Journaling isn’t just for personal reflection—it can be an incredible tool for writers looking to spark creativity, deepen their storytelling skills, and overcome writer’s block. Whether you’re a seasoned novelist or just starting your writing journey, keeping a journal can help you explore ideas, refine your craft, and develop your unique voice.

Not sure where to start? I’ve put together over 50 journaling prompts designed specifically for writers of all genres. These prompts will help you dive deeper into your creative process, build stronger characters, explore your worldbuilding, and reflect on your personal growth as a writer.

1. Journaling About Your Writing Process

Understanding your writing habits and challenges can help you improve and stay motivated. These prompts will help you reflect on your craft and identify what works best for you.

  • What does your ideal writing routine look like?
  • How do you overcome writer’s block?
  • What are your biggest writing strengths and weaknesses?
  • Describe your writing voice. How has it changed over time?
  • What writing advice do you agree or disagree with? Why?
  • If you could master one aspect of writing, what would it be?
  • Write about a time you received feedback on your writing. How did it affect you?
  • Describe your dream writing space.
  • What are your thoughts on writing outlines vs. discovery writing?
  • What does success as a writer mean to you?

2. Character Development Prompts

Getting to know your characters on a deeper level can make them feel more real to readers. These prompts will help you develop richer, more complex characters.

  • Write a journal entry from the perspective of one of your characters.
  • What are your character’s biggest fears and why?
  • Describe a childhood memory that shaped your character.
  • What would your character’s ideal day look like?
  • How does your character handle conflict?
  • What is your character’s biggest secret?
  • If your character could change one thing about their past, what would it be?
  • Describe your character’s handwriting. What does it reveal about them?
  • How does your character express love?
  • If your character had a personal motto, what would it be?

3. Worldbuilding & Setting Exploration

For fantasy and sci-fi writers (or anyone creating immersive settings), these prompts will help you build vivid, believable worlds.

  • Describe a place that feels magical to you.
  • If you could create a fictional world, what would be its most unique feature?
  • What are the cultural norms of your fictional world?
  • How does the weather or environment affect the mood of your story?
  • What would a holiday or festival look like in your world?
  • How do politics and power structures shape your world?
  • Describe a marketplace in your fictional setting—what do people sell?
  • What does architecture look like in your story’s world?
  • How do people in your world communicate or write?
  • What myths or legends exist in your fictional universe?

4. Personal Reflections for Writers

Writing is a deeply personal journey. These prompts encourage self-reflection and help you connect with your own experiences to enhance your storytelling.

  • What first made you want to write?
  • What real-life experience would make a great story?
  • What emotions do you struggle to put into words?
  • How has a book or author influenced your writing style?
  • Write about a time when you felt truly inspired.
  • How do your personal fears show up in your writing?
  • What themes do you often return to in your writing?
  • If you could tell your younger writer self something, what would it be?
  • What has been your biggest challenge as a writer?
  • How does your identity (culture, background, values) influence your writing?

5. Creative Writing Prompts

Need a quick spark of inspiration? Try these fun and engaging writing prompts to kickstart a new story idea or get your creativity flowing.

  • Write the first paragraph of a novel you’d love to read.
  • Describe a dream you had and turn it into a story idea.
  • Pick a random object near you and write its backstory.
  • Write about a character who has just received life-changing news.
  • Imagine you wake up in an alternate reality—what’s different?
  • Take a cliché story and twist it into something new.
  • Describe a meeting between two strangers in an unusual setting.
  • Write a scene where a character discovers a hidden talent.
  • Write a letter from your future self to your present self about writing.
  • Start a story with: “Everything changed when the letter arrived.”

Why Journaling is Essential for Writers

Journaling isn’t just about writing down thoughts—it’s about growth, creativity, and self-discovery. By taking time to reflect on your writing process, characters, worldbuilding, and personal experiences, you can strengthen your skills, overcome creative blocks, and find new inspiration.

Happy Writing ^_^

January 2025, writing-tips

Editing Your Creative Writing: A Guide for All Writers

Sara's Writing Sanctuary

Whether you’re a plotter who plans every detail or a pantser who dives into the unknown, editing is where your story truly comes to life. For some of us, writing the first draft feels like conquering a mountain, but the real magic happens in editing. No matter your writing style, here’s a step-by-step guide to make the process manageable and effective.

Step 1: Take a Step Back

Once you’ve finished your draft, give it some breathing room. It’s tempting to jump straight into edits, but stepping away helps you see the story with fresh eyes. Whether you’re a plotter or a pantser, distance makes it easier to spot what works—and what doesn’t.

Step 2: Read Your Story with Fresh Eyes

When you’re ready to edit, start by reading your draft as if you’re the audience. Don’t fix anything yet—just take notes. Ask yourself:

  • Does the story flow?
  • Do the characters feel real and consistent?
  • Are there any confusing parts?

For Plotters: Compare your draft to your outline. Did you stick to your plan? If not, does the new direction make sense?

For Pantsers: Look for the heart of your story. What themes or ideas stand out? Where does the plot feel solid, and where might it need more work?

Step 3: Start Big

Before diving into sentences or grammar, focus on the big picture:

  • Plot: Are there any holes or unresolved threads? Does the story’s beginning, middle, and end flow naturally?
  • Characters: Do they grow and change throughout the story? Are their motivations clear?
  • Scenes: Does each scene have a purpose? If it doesn’t move the story forward or reveal something important, it might need to be cut or reworked.

For Pantsers: This is a great time to create a reverse outline. Map out what you’ve written to see how everything fits together.

For Plotters: Double-check that your story sticks to your planned structure—or decide if any deviations work better.

Step 4: Fill in the Gaps

Every draft has gaps, whether it’s missing details, unclear motivations, or underdeveloped subplots. Use this stage to strengthen weak areas:

  • Add scenes or dialogue where necessary.
  • Deepen emotional moments or relationships.
  • Clarify any confusing points for the reader.

Step 5: Focus on the Details

Once the story structure feels solid, it’s time to zoom in on the details:

  • Clarity: Are your sentences clear and easy to follow?
  • Pacing: Are there parts that drag or feel rushed?
  • Repetition: Are you overusing certain words or phrases?

This stage is about making your writing shine.

Step 6: Proofread Like a Pro

Finally, it’s time to proofread for grammar, spelling, and typos. Reading your work out loud can help you catch mistakes you might miss otherwise. You can also use tools like spellcheck or ask a friend to review it.

Step 7: Embrace the Process

Editing is hard work, but it’s also rewarding. Whether you’re refining a detailed plan or untangling the threads of a free-flowing draft, each pass brings you closer to the story you want to tell.

Take your time, celebrate your progress, and remember that every writer has their own unique process. Whether you plan everything or discover as you go, your story is yours—and editing will make it shine.

How do you approach editing? I’d love to hear about your process, whether you’re a plotter, pantser, or somewhere in between!

Happy Editing ^_^

About Myself, January 2025, writing-tips

The Connection Between Wellness and Creativity: My Personal Journey

Sara's Writing Sanctuary

Have you ever noticed how your body and emotions can affect your ability to be creative? I’ve found that my physical health and emotional well-being are deeply tied to how much I can write or come up with new ideas. It took me some time to realize this connection, but once I did, it changed the way I approach my creative work.

The Physical Side of Creativity

When my body feels good, my mind works better. Over the years, I’ve learned that doing things I enjoy or that make me happy often helps my creativity. However, there are days when I feel sluggish or in pain—and on those days, my brain feels foggy, and it’s harder to focus. That’s when small, intentional actions make all the difference. Simple things like sitting outside to enjoy the day or relaxing with a good book can be enough to recharge my mind.

The Emotional Side of Creativity

Emotions are tricky. When I’m feeling overwhelmed, sad, or anxious, my creativity often takes a hit. But I’ve also noticed that when I lean into those feelings instead of fighting them, they can inspire my work. Writing becomes a way to process what I’m going through.

Some things that help me emotionally include:

  • Journaling: Writing for myself—just to get thoughts and feelings out—often makes me feel lighter.
  • Self-compassion: Reminding myself that it’s okay to have off days helps me bounce back quicker.
  • Connection: Talking to a friend or loved one about how I’m feeling eases emotional stress and helps me refocus.

Emotions can have a huge impact on creativity, both blocking and inspiring it. When I wrote poetry, my emotions were often the fuel. But when writing fiction, strong emotions sometimes stop my inspiration—especially for certain scenes. For example, going through a breakup can make it hard to write a love story or romantic scene.

How Wellness Fuels Creativity

When my body feels good and my emotions are in balance, creativity flows more naturally. I’m able to sit down and write without struggling as much. But I’ve also learned that creativity isn’t about being perfect; it’s about showing up. Even on tough days, taking small steps—like jotting down ideas or writing a few sentences—keeps me moving forward.

My Tips for Balancing Wellness and Creativity

If you’re looking to boost your creativity through wellness, here are a few tips that have worked for me:

  1. Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how you feel and take breaks when you need them.
  2. Create a Routine: Having a regular schedule for writing, even if it’s just 10 minutes a day, helps build consistency.
  3. Find What Inspires You: Whether it’s music, nature, or a favorite book, surround yourself with things that spark your creativity.
  4. Be Patient with Yourself: Creativity has its ups and downs. It’s okay to take time to recharge.

A Final Thought

Taking care of your physical and emotional health isn’t just about feeling good—it’s also about giving yourself the best chance to create. When you’re well, your creativity has the space to thrive. For me, the journey to balance hasn’t been perfect, but it’s been worth it.

What about you? Have you noticed a connection between your wellness and creativity? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

Happy Writing ^_^

January 2025, writing-tips

Writers Block Tips

Sara's Writing Sanctuary

Writer’s block, procrastination, and perfectionism are struggles I’ve faced more times than I can count. They’re like these sneaky little monsters that show up when I’m ready to pour my heart out on the page. Over the years, though, I’ve learned a few tricks to tame them. I’m sharing them with you in case you’re stuck, too.

When Writer’s Block Hits

Let’s start with writer’s block. It’s the worst, right? Sitting in front of a blank page, willing words to come but feeling like your brain is on strike. What helps me most is to take the pressure off. I tell myself, “Just write anything.” Even if it’s something as simple as, “I have no idea what to write right now.” Once I’ve written something—anything—the words start flowing.

Another trick is to change scenery. Sometimes, just moving to a different spot, like a cozy corner or even outside, can wake up my creativity. And if that doesn’t work, I turn to prompts. They don’t have to be fancy—a quick “What if…” scenario can get the wheels turning.

Procrastination’s Pull

Procrastination loves to lure me in with promises of just one more scroll through social media or a quick episode of my favorite show. To fight it, I’ve started setting timers. I’ll tell myself, “Write for just 10 minutes.” Ten minutes feels doable, and often, once I start, I’ll keep going.

Another thing that helps is breaking tasks into tiny steps. Instead of thinking, “I have to write a whole chapter today,” I’ll focus on a single paragraph. Finishing small chunks makes the whole project feel less overwhelming.

The Perfectionism Trap

Perfectionism might be the hardest one for me. I want every sentence to be perfect, but that’s not how writing works. First drafts are supposed to be messy. I remind myself that I can’t fix what’s not written. It’s better to get the words down and worry about polishing them later.

Sometimes, I even make a game of writing badly on purpose. I’ll challenge myself to write the most awkward or over-the-top sentence just to loosen up. It’s funny how freeing it can be to let go of expectations.

Life and Mental Health Matter

One thing I’ve realized is that writing and creativity are deeply tied to how I’m feeling overall. If I’m stressed, exhausted, or not taking care of myself, it’s so much harder to focus. That’s why I try to prioritize my mental health and well-being. Taking breaks, eating well, staying hydrated, and getting enough sleep all make a huge difference.

Sometimes, the best thing I can do for my writing is to step away and recharge. Going for a walk, meditating, or spending time with loved ones can help me come back to the page with a clearer mind. It’s important to remember that life and health come first. Writing will always be there, but you need to be in a good place to do your best work.

Giving Yourself Grace

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is to be kind to myself. Beating myself up for not writing perfectly or quickly enough doesn’t help—it just makes things harder. Writing is a process, and it’s okay to take breaks, experiment, and stumble along the way. Progress is what matters, not perfection.

So, if you’re feeling stuck, I hope you’ll try some of these tips. And remember, you’re not alone. We all face those sneaky monsters—but we’ve also got what it takes to beat them. You’ve got this.

Happy Writing ^_^

January 2025, writing-tips

Journaling for Writing

Sara's Writing Sanctuary

Journaling has been one of the most helpful tools in my writing journey. When I first started, I didn’t realize how much it could improve my creativity, focus, and even the way I tell stories. If you’re looking for a simple way to level up your writing, I can’t recommend journaling enough. Let me share why.

For me, journaling is like having a conversation with myself. It’s a safe space where I can let my thoughts flow without worrying about judgment or perfection. Some days, I write about my feelings or things happening in my life. Other days, I scribble random story ideas, bits of dialogue, or even descriptions of things I see around me. It doesn’t have to be organized or pretty—just honest.

What I’ve noticed is that journaling helps me clear my mind. You know those days when your thoughts feel all tangled up? Writing them down makes it easier to untangle them. Once my mind feels clearer, it’s so much easier to focus on my creative projects. I’ve had moments where something I journaled about turned into the seed for an entire story. It’s like finding hidden treasures in your own words.

Another thing I love about journaling is how it helps me practice writing regularly. It’s like a warm-up before the main event. Some days, it’s just a few sentences, and other days, I’ll fill pages. Either way, it keeps me in the habit of putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard). Over time, this consistency has helped me feel more confident as a writer.

Journaling has also taught me to be more observant. When I jot down little details about my day, like how the sky looked or how someone’s laughter sounded, I’m training myself to notice the small things. These little details often make my fiction more vivid and real.

Beyond its benefits for writing, journaling has been incredibly helpful for my mental health. When I’m dealing with writer’s block, journaling becomes my lifeline. It gives me a space to explore what’s causing the block—whether it’s stress, self-doubt, or simply feeling stuck. Writing out my frustrations or fears helps me process them, and often, I find solutions or a fresh perspective. It’s like having a therapist on the page.

For fiction writers, journaling can be a goldmine. It’s a place to brainstorm character backstories, plot twists, or even new worlds. I’ve often found that freewriting in my journal leads to breakthroughs in my stories. It’s also a great way to experiment with different voices or styles without any pressure.

If you’re new to journaling, don’t overthink it. Start simple. Maybe write about your day, a dream you had, or something you’re grateful for. You could even use prompts if you’re feeling stuck. The key is to let go of the pressure to make it perfect. Your journal is just for you.

Over time, you might be surprised at how much your journaling practice influences your other writing. I know I was. It’s such a simple habit, but it’s made a huge difference for me. So grab a notebook, open a blank document, or even use a journaling app—whatever feels right. Give yourself the gift of journaling, and see where it takes you. Trust me, your writing will thank you for it.

Happy Writing ^_^