by Katherine Hutchinson-Hayes, Ed.D. @khutch0767

As writers with a Christian perspective, we frequently find ourselves engaged in creating narratives and messages that can motivate and elevate those around us. Yet, there are periods in our path when our creative inspiration may wane, causing feelings of discouragement and a lack of focus. I recently faced such a period, where both time and words seemed to slip away from me, and the joy of writing felt like a memory far out of reach.

In my moments of hopelessness, I sought God, yearning for His guidance and presence amid my challenges. I understood that I required more than just a return to productivity. I needed a profound change in perspective—a transformation that could foster a healing renewal. Below are ten approaches I’ve adopted to rekindle my passion for writing, and I hope they also strike a chord with you.

Seek Direction Through Prayer

Prayer has consistently served as my sanctuary. In my quest for understanding, I started offering targeted prayers regarding my writing. Requesting that God shed light on my journey motivated me to realign with my purpose.

Think of Writing as Worship

Viewing my writing as a form of devotion changed my perspective. Every paragraph and narrative became a gift to God instead of just a chore. This change helped me reestablish my connection to my purpose and reflect on why I embarked on this journey.

Organize Your Writing Area

A cluttered space can lead to a disorganized mind. I started by clearing my desk and removing unnecessary papers, random notes, and distractions. Creating a serene workspace allowed me to restore peace and focus.

Streamline Your Life

In addition to clearing out my physical workspace, I simplified other areas of my life—my calendar, obligations, and digital documents. Eliminating distractions helped cultivate a calmer environment, enabling me to focus on what was truly important in my writing.

Establish Specific Goals

I started setting intentions for my writing sessions. Whether I was working on a chapter or generating ideas, having specific objectives inspired me and gave me a feeling of accomplishment, even in small steps.

Commit to Professional Growth

Participating in online courses or joining writing workshops sparked my enthusiasm once more. Acquiring fresh skills and methods revitalized my passion for work, reinforcing that personal growth is an ongoing journey.

Engage with a Writing Community

I reached out to other Christian writers to exchange experiences and encourage. Building a support network and participating in discussions made me feel less alone. A community can inspire and energize us, especially during challenging times.

Nurture Thankfulness

Every day, I started noting three aspects of my writing journey for which I felt grateful. This routine changed my perspective from what was missing to what I possessed, saturating my heart with gratitude and happiness.

Pause for Refreshment

Previously, I thought that persevering was essential, but I realized that intentionally taking breaks for rest and rejuvenation was vital. Taking a step back from my tasks revitalized my spirit and made it far more fulfilling to return to them.

Contemplate Your Path

I took a moment to contemplate my path as a Christian writer. Reflecting on my progress and the influence my writing has had reminded me of God’s steadfastness and the purpose He has instilled in my heart.

Getting through this dry season hasn’t been simple, but it has become a period of change. Something I continue to work through. By embracing the concepts of rebirth, restoration, and renewal, I am slowly rekindling my passion for writing. I urge you to transform your discouragement into sincere prayers, asking God to revitalize your passion and purpose. Remember that every dry season can pave the way for a lovely spring filled with new beginnings.

Author, speaker, educational consultant, and editor–Katherine Hutchinson-Hayes, Ed. D. has had her hand in leadership for many years. She loves speaking to groups and delivering messages with a quick wit and real-life stories. Katherine is a freelance writer/content editor, a content editor/writing coach for Iron Stream Media, and a sensitivity reader for Sensitivity Between the Lines. She is a review board member and contributor to Inkspirations (an online magazine for Christian writers), and her writing has been published in Guideposts. Her work in art/writing is distinguished by awards, including the New York Mayor’s Contribution to the Arts, Outstanding Resident Artist of Arizona, and the Foundations Awards at the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writer’s Conference (2016, 2019, 2021, 2022). She was a finalist in the Genesis Contest ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers/Romantic Suspense 2022). She is a finalist for the Claymore Award 2022 (Thriller Division) for the best-unpublished manuscript. She is a member of Word Weavers International and serves as an online chapter president and mentor. She belongs to FWA (Florida Writers Association), ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers), CWoC (Crime Writers of Color), AWSA (Advanced Writers and Speakers Association), and AASA (American Association of School Administrators). She serves on the board of the nonprofit organization Submersion 14 and is an art instructor and virtual exhibition specialist for the nonprofit organization Light for the Future. Katherine is the host of the podcast Murder, Mystery & Mayhem Laced with Morality. She has authored a Christian Bible study for women and is currently working on the sequel and prequel to her first general market thriller novel, “A Fifth of the Story.”