Unleashing Your Inner Writer: Never Run Out of Ideas
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You’ve made the decision to dive into blogging. You’re fully committed and even sharing your Medium plans with respected friends.
Or perhaps you’re still hesitating, caught in a cycle of overthinking.
In either case, that nagging thought pops up now and then—
What if I run out of intriguing topics to write about?
Does that ring a bell?
Don’t worry, brave explorer. All you need are some tools (both mental and physical), a voice strong enough to disregard those negative thoughts, and most importantly, a mindset filled with Curiosity.
Indeed, let’s reconnect with that Sense of Wonder.
We inhabit a world rife with labels and categories, where we feel pressure to stay on-brand and find our niche.
I hereby grant you permission to let go of that nonsense as you step into the realm of Medium.
You are now a writer who observes, a person who views the world (ideally with empathy) in shades beyond black and white. You have the freedom to question—not just others’ views but your own long-held beliefs.
Nothing captivates a reader quite like that, as you challenge the status quo. Most readers are accustomed to writers inundating them with opinions—blah, blah, this happened to me, blah blah, echoing a choir of like-minded voices.
But here’s a fantastic Bonus Tip—your insights don’t need to be profound.
You might explore your upbringing or beliefs, but you could also question why you still frequent Chick-fil-A, why a favorite movie no longer resonates, or whether your previous judgments about an author or life’s purpose were misguided.
Fear not the possibility of running out of reflections—the world is ever-evolving, and so are you, which means your opinions and interests will continuously shift.
Now, Let’s Discuss The Tools!
A Mind Open to All Ideas
Medium is a treasure trove of thoughts! Why limit yourself to a single somber publication that focuses solely on dark themes? You can write about beloved books, mental health, video games, aging, annoying coworkers, roadside attractions, cats, overcoming challenges, travel adventures, your love for pie, nature observations, philosophy, and even cultural critiques.
Or perhaps, you might dare to drop the serious tone and craft a light-hearted poem! Challenge yourself to express something in under 150 words (which can be quite a feat for many).
Readers across Medium are eager for your perspective, your unique takes. Whether through humor, frustration, or introspection, countless platforms are waiting for your remarkable contributions.
A Dog-eared Notebook & a Favorite Pen
Yes, I said it—paper! Take a break from screens, look away from your devices, and jot down your thoughts. Create lists of next steps, enjoy the satisfying sound of flipping through pages, and compile your dream collection of topics and publications. Sometimes, it’s quicker to write things down instead of navigating through digital tabs. Engaging your hands allows you to tap into a different part of your creativity than just typing.
A Robust Notes or Dictation App
Have you moved past paper? No problem! Keep your Notes app handy, ready for you to capture fleeting ideas before they vanish. Alternatively, use Siri or your preferred voice assistant to record thoughts that need to be documented for those moments when you wonder, “What could I possibly write about?”
An Arsenal of Inspiration
As a creative individual, you’ll want an arsenal of inspiration close at hand—easy-to-read writing books, quotes to combat procrastination, motivational YouTube videos, or even a well-curated playlist to pull you out of a creative slump and back into your identity as the writer you’re meant to be.
Stay Curious and Embrace Wonder
This is so crucial that it bears repeating.
Certainty is dull.
Who wants to read something from someone who has everything figured out and talks down to you? Some of the best TV shows, like Breaking Bad or Succession, thrive because their flawed characters make mistakes, face failures, and keep moving forward. You can embrace the messiness in your writing—yes, you! By keeping your mind and spirit receptive to wonder and curiosity, you’ll always have topics to explore and revisit—so many that you may find it challenging to document them all in your notebook or Notes app.
Wait, why was Uncle Bob always sleeping over in mom’s bedroom?
Hmm, have I outgrown sushi?
Whoa, is my dog the neighborhood nuisance?
Aren’t those bright digital billboards a driving hazard?
Who is the lead actor on Friends?
Why didn’t I learn personal finance and car repair in school?
How did I navigate that mental health crisis?
Is my comfort better in boxers or briefs?
Do I really need to keep wearing a bra?
The list goes on!
Before we conclude, I can hear the perfectionists lamenting, “But I can’t be a hot mess; I can’t appear indecisive or questioning! Everything must be perfect before I hit Publish!!”
As someone who is still learning to overcome perfectionism, I gently remind you that the traditional gatekeepers of publishing are no longer in control. There’s no one waiting to send you a rejection letter here on Medium. Some publications may not be the right fit for you, but there are many others eagerly awaiting your writing style, however imperfect or controversial it may be.
I spent 40 years merely observing from the sidelines, waiting for everything to be just right before starting. It's a futile path, filled with disappointment. Keep your eyes peeled, ponder something, take action, and most importantly, move on to the next idea.
Fight the good fight.
I’ll leave you with a wonderful piece by James Saint Simon here on Medium—read it. It gives you permission to write and publish something less than perfect and continue your day as a successful and active WRITER.
Stay Curious. Be Yourself.
And when all else fails…
Throw in a listicle—why not?
© Joe Guay, 2023
Other pieces you may enjoy by this author:
You Were My First… And Your Nonsense Kept Me In The Closet
Coming to terms with my part in it
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Ever Received A Fan Letter?
Or sent one? How to make a difference, how to meet a friend
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3 Less-Visited Colorado National Parks, Conquered In One Grand Swing
Skip the crowds, find some peace
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