Do you ever find yourself staring at a blank page, waiting for inspiration to strike? It's a common problem, and one that can be particularly frustrating for those of us who rely on our creativity to make a living. But here's the thing: waiting for inspiration is a surefire way to guarantee that it never comes.
That's why I love Jack London's quote "You can't wait for inspiration. You have to go after it with a club." London was a prolific author and adventurer who knew a thing or two about getting things done. And when it comes to writing, his advice couldn't be more spot-on.
So what does it mean to go after inspiration with a club? For starters, it means taking action. Instead of waiting for the muse to strike, you have to actively seek out inspiration. That might mean reading books in your genre, brainstorming with fellow writers, or immersing yourself in the world you're trying to create.
But it's not just about taking action. It's also about being persistent. Writing is hard work, and it requires a lot of discipline and dedication. That means showing up every day, even when you don't feel like it. It means putting in the time and effort to hone your craft, even when you're not seeing immediate results.
Of course, this isn't always easy. There will be days when you feel like giving up, when the words just won't come, when the doubts and insecurities threaten to overwhelm you. But that's when you have to pick up your club and keep going. Remember that every great writer started out as a beginner, and that every draft starts out as a mess. The only way to get better is to keep at it.
So if you're feeling stuck, if you're waiting for inspiration to strike, remember Jack London's words. You can't wait for inspiration. You have to go after it with a club. Take action, be persistent, and never give up. And who knows? Maybe the muse will finally show up, just when you least expect it.
-Andrew
The Indie Author Method
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