21 ways to keep your writing sharp

The problem writers have is when their hearts aren’t in the writing, it shows. (Here’s how to overcome your writing demons.)

To help you get your writing on track, here are 21 tips to prevent you from getting what I affectionately call blank-screen syndrome:

1. Create a list of articles you want to write but don’t have time. It’s easy to get inspired to write about other topics when the pressure’s on to write about something else. There’s nothing like a deadline to make anything else seem exciting.

2. Feed your mind. Read a book, blogs or news sites to get ideas. This isn’t an excuse to get a snack or other indulgence.

3. Develop a story around a trending topic, even if it’s not your area of focus. The objective is to stretch yourself to find a way to write about the hot topic. This can be useful when you need to keep your content relevant.