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

Episode Summary

In this Ask Beth & Lisa episode of Writers with Wrinkles, the hosts tackle one of the biggest challenges writers face—getting out of a creative rut. They share personal experiences, actionable strategies, and insights on how critique partners and beta readers can help reignite motivation and improve writing.

Key Discussion Points

Recognizing When You're in a Writing Rut

Beth and Lisa discuss how writers can unknowingly slip into autopilot, losing creative energy. Beth describes feeling like a “limp, useless piece of nothing” at her desk, while Lisa reflects on repetitive writing habits, like overusing certain phrases and punctuation. Recognizing the signs of burnout is the first step to overcoming it.

Using Micro Goals to Regain Momentum

For writers facing deadlines, Beth emphasizes the power of micro goals—small, manageable targets like writing 500 words a day. These bite-sized goals help move the manuscript forward without feeling overwhelming. Even in low-energy periods, this method ensures steady progress.

Shaking Up Your Routine for Creative Inspiration

A change in environment can spark fresh ideas. Beth shares how dictating chapters into her phone while walking through London helped her break through a rut. Lisa found unexpected inspiration by playing Pokémon GO, helping her better understand a gaming-obsessed character in her manuscript. Even simple changes—like writing in a different room, taking a walk, or listening to a new playlist—can make a difference.

Leveraging Beta Readers & New Critique Partners

Lisa highlights the transformative effect of seeking feedback from fresh eyes. While longtime critique partners are valuable, adding new perspectives can reveal blind spots. Two experienced writers beta-read Lisa’s manuscript, catching issues like overused expressions and areas needing more depth. Their insights reignited her enthusiasm for revisions.

Finding the Right Critique Group

The hosts stress the importance of choosing critique partners whose work you respect. Writers should seek out those who challenge and elevate their craft rather than offering surface-level feedback. They also recommend joining their private Facebook group, The Waiting Room, to connect with like-minded writers and potential beta readers.

Conclusion & Takeaways

• Recognizing when you're stuck in a writing rut is the first step to overcoming it.
• Setting small, achievable writing goals prevents paralysis and keeps progress steady.
• Changing routines—whether through travel, outdoor walks, or even gaming—can reignite creativity.
• Seeking feedback from new critique partners provides fresh insights and helps refine your manuscript.
• The Waiting Room Facebook group is a great place to find critique partners and beta readers.

Mentioned Links

• Join The Waiting Room (Private Facebook Group for Writers)
• Writers With Wrinkles Website: writerswithwrinkles.net

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