Writers With Wrinkles

Breaking Out of the Writing Rut: Micro Goals, Fresh Eyes & Creative Hacks

Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid Season 4 Episode 4

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In this Ask Beth & Lisa episode, the hosts tackle a common writer struggle: getting out of a creative rut. They share personal experiences, actionable strategies, and insights from working with critique partners and beta readers to reignite motivation and improve writing.

Key Discussion Points

  • Recognizing a Writing Rut: How to identify when you’re stuck in autopilot and losing creative energy.
  • Micro Goals for Progress: Beth shares her strategy of setting small, achievable goals like 500-word daily targets to push through blocks.
  • Shaking Up Routine: The benefits of changing writing environments, traveling, or even dictating chapters while walking to boost creativity.
  • The Power of Beta Readers & New Critique Partners: Lisa explains how fresh eyes on her manuscript helped her identify repetitive writing habits and refine her storytelling.
  • Finding the Right Critique Group: The importance of choosing partners whose work aligns with your writing style and elevates your craft.
  • Using The Waiting Room for Writers: How their private Facebook group helps authors connect, find critique partners, and navigate publishing challenges.

Conclusion

Breaking out of a writing rut requires intentional shifts—whether through setting small goals, changing routines, or seeking new perspectives. The key is to stay engaged, experiment with different methods, and remember that creative slumps are temporary.

Mentioned Links

Beth & Lisa return on March 3rd with guest Meg Gaertner, Managing Editor at Flux and Jollyfish Press, to discuss editorial insights. Don’t forget to subscribe, follow, and share the podcast!



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