In a world buzzing with constant stimulation and digital distractions, it might seem counterintuitive to sing the praises of procrastination. Yet, for creative writers, stepping away from your main project can be a hidden gem, a fertile ground for inspiration, and a powerful tool for honing their craft. Learn how procrastination can make you more productive rather than feeling like wasted time.
A Blank Canvas for Ideas
When your mind isn’t locked down with external stimuli, you’re free to wander into uncharted territories. Boredom provides a blank canvas where imagination can flourish. As a creative writer, allowing yourself to be bored opens up space for new and unconventional ideas to emerge. You start to take chances and explore ideas hidden in the cobwebbed areas of your brain. These unexplored mental pathways can lead to unique story concepts, intricate characters, and unexpected plot twists.
Shifting Gears
Constantly working on a writing project can lead to burnout, draining your creativity and passion. Taking intentional breaks from your project and allowing yourself to experience moments of boredom can prevent creative burnout. That short story you’ve been putting off, time to tackle it. That research you need for world building, dive into it. As a creative writer, there’s always something you can work on.
A Positive Side to Procrastination
Procrastination is often perceived as a negative state. But it doesn’t have to be. Pure boredom can unlock the doors to imagination, introspection and experimentation.
Tim Kane
Totally agree – being bored allows space for new ideas and thoughts
So long as your boredom isn’t an excuse for not getting down to work. But I remember a time with no streaming and Internet. Bored all the time.