Ask the Author: Collin McLaughlin
Answered Questions (6)
Collin McLaughlin
When I face writer’s block, I use a combination of strategies to get back on track:
1. Create a Detailed Outline: Having a well-thought-out outline does most of the heavy lifting when it comes to avoiding writer’s block. It provides a clear roadmap for my writing, so even if I hit a snag, I know where the story or argument is heading. This structure makes it easier to keep moving forward, even on tough days.
2. Change Your Environment: A change of scenery can spark new ideas. Whether it’s moving to a different room, going outside, or finding a new café, a fresh environment often helps me think differently.
3. Write Something Different: If I’m stuck on a particular project, I switch to writing something else—whether it’s journaling, a short story, or even just a list of ideas. This shift can break the mental block and eventually lead me back to my original work.
4. Set Small, Achievable Goals: Instead of aiming to write a large section, I set a small goal, like writing for just 10 minutes or completing 100 words. Achieving these small goals often builds momentum.
5. Take Breaks: Sometimes, the best solution is to step away from writing for a bit. I take a walk, do something creative but unrelated, or simply relax. Often, the ideas come back stronger after a break.
1. Create a Detailed Outline: Having a well-thought-out outline does most of the heavy lifting when it comes to avoiding writer’s block. It provides a clear roadmap for my writing, so even if I hit a snag, I know where the story or argument is heading. This structure makes it easier to keep moving forward, even on tough days.
2. Change Your Environment: A change of scenery can spark new ideas. Whether it’s moving to a different room, going outside, or finding a new café, a fresh environment often helps me think differently.
3. Write Something Different: If I’m stuck on a particular project, I switch to writing something else—whether it’s journaling, a short story, or even just a list of ideas. This shift can break the mental block and eventually lead me back to my original work.
4. Set Small, Achievable Goals: Instead of aiming to write a large section, I set a small goal, like writing for just 10 minutes or completing 100 words. Achieving these small goals often builds momentum.
5. Take Breaks: Sometimes, the best solution is to step away from writing for a bit. I take a walk, do something creative but unrelated, or simply relax. Often, the ideas come back stronger after a break.
Collin McLaughlin
The idea for my most recent book emerged from a deep desire to create something that resonates with the challenges and complexities of modern life, particularly through the lens of faith. I was inspired by the need for a devotional that addresses a wide range of issues we face in today’s fast-paced, technological world. The book draws on timeless spiritual principles, but applies them in ways that are relevant to contemporary struggles—like dealing with stress, finding balance, and maintaining mental health.
At the core, the inspiration came from observing how people are navigating these challenges and the realization that a resource grounded in faith could offer comfort, guidance, and practical advice. This was coupled with my own experiences and the stories of those around me, which helped shape the themes and messages throughout the book.
At the core, the inspiration came from observing how people are navigating these challenges and the realization that a resource grounded in faith could offer comfort, guidance, and practical advice. This was coupled with my own experiences and the stories of those around me, which helped shape the themes and messages throughout the book.
Collin McLaughlin
The best thing about being a writer is the ability to bring ideas to life and connect with others on a deep, emotional level. Writing allows you to explore and articulate thoughts, emotions, and experiences in a way that resonates with readers. There’s a profound satisfaction in creating something from nothing, crafting stories or messages that can inspire, entertain, or offer solace to others. Additionally, writing offers a unique form of self-expression and a sense of accomplishment in seeing your work come to fruition, whether it’s a finished manuscript, an article, or a simple blog post.
Collin McLaughlin
1. Write Consistently: Make writing a daily habit, even if it’s just a few hundred words. Consistency builds discipline and improves your craft over time.
2. Read Widely: Read across genres and styles to understand different writing techniques. It will help you develop your unique voice and broaden your creative horizons.
3. Embrace Revisions: Writing is rewriting. Don’t be afraid to revise your work multiple times. Great writing often emerges through the process of refining your initial drafts.
4. Seek Feedback: Share your work with others, whether through writing groups, beta readers, or critique partners. Constructive criticism is invaluable for growth.
5. Persevere Through Rejection: Rejections are a natural part of the writing journey. Learn from them, improve your work, and keep submitting.
6. Stay True to Your Voice: While it’s important to learn from others, make sure to stay authentic to your voice and message. Your unique perspective is what will resonate with readers.
2. Read Widely: Read across genres and styles to understand different writing techniques. It will help you develop your unique voice and broaden your creative horizons.
3. Embrace Revisions: Writing is rewriting. Don’t be afraid to revise your work multiple times. Great writing often emerges through the process of refining your initial drafts.
4. Seek Feedback: Share your work with others, whether through writing groups, beta readers, or critique partners. Constructive criticism is invaluable for growth.
5. Persevere Through Rejection: Rejections are a natural part of the writing journey. Learn from them, improve your work, and keep submitting.
6. Stay True to Your Voice: While it’s important to learn from others, make sure to stay authentic to your voice and message. Your unique perspective is what will resonate with readers.
Collin McLaughlin
The short answer is God, but His inspiration was born from the yearning for a devotional that addresses the range of issues we face in a contemporary and technological age.
Collin McLaughlin
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