Every day, before I start client work, I try to write a blog.
This has been my routine for the past ten years. Sometimes the ideas flow and, before I know it, another blog is scheduled for publication.
On other days (like today) I have nothing, zilch, nada.
I’ve been staring at my screen for 15 minutes without a clue what to write. That’s when I decided it was time to write an idea generation post.
You probably have your own method of coming up with ideas, but just in case you need a bit more inspiration, here’s a few I came up with a while ago:
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Fresh air brainstorming
Get out of the office and go for a long walk. The fresh air and change of scenery will do wonders for your blankness. When ideas strike record them on your phone so you don’t forget them.
- Write what you like
The best way to get the creative juices flowing is to write about something that interests you (provided it’s relevant to your business). You will already have the knowledge so no research is necessary and your passion for your subject will shine through.
- What if…
Reading around your subject is a great way to spark ideas. Take a look at other blogs in your industry and see what other people are saying. If you find their writing interesting think about the subject from a different angle – that’s where the what if comes it.
- Outline
It’s not very often someone can sit down and write an article straight off. If you have ideas buzzing round your head but can’t quite form them into an article list them as bullet points. This visualisation of ideas can often help you flesh them out into an interesting blog post.
- Put it away
If you have managed to get a few ideas down but somehow it still doesn’t seem to gel, put it away for a day or two. Fresh eyes can often help craft it into an interesting and thought provoking post.
- Magazine time
As with number three, reading any sort of material can help the creative process – they don’t even have to be from your industry. An article in a magazine or newspaper can trigger an idea especially if a topical event can be seen to affect your industry.
- Fancy a coffee?
Relaxing your mind will refresh it. Meet up with some friends for a coffee and a chat. Again you never quite know what will come out of your conversations; they could stimulate a great article idea. But if not, at least you’ve had time to recharge your batteries before returning to your desk and trying again.
- Swipe file
No, I’m not talking about plagiarism! Your swipe file can be electronic or paper and should contain items you find of interest. As a writer, if I come across an effective sales letter I’ll save it, if I receive a brochure that’s particularly eye catching, I’ll save it. If I read a great article, I’ll save it. All of this is great information that can be used for inspiration when I need it.
Another idea is to have a note pad next to you at all times. That way, when you think of an idea, you can jot it down. Before you know it, you’ll have a list of great ideas that should keep you going for a while.
Hopefully, these ideas will help you get over your blogging dry spell. If you have any other ideas that I haven’t mentioned, and that work for you, leave a comment and share them.