As a writer, you already have first-hand knowledge of the creative process and the strategies needed to solve a problem, handle a challenging writing project or meet the needs of a demanding client.

But what do you do when you are feeling drained and uninspired to write?

How do we conquer those times when we show up at the computer and do nothing but stare at a blank screen?

In order to get through writing's not-so-romantic moments and march forward toward our freelancing goals, we need to get inspired by the people, places and things around us.

As a freelance copywriter, your income depends on how fast and well the words flow, so learning how to live more creatively will not only improve your writing - it will make day-to-day life more rewarding and enjoyable.

So what strategies can we use to not only create but live a creative life?

1. Take charge of your schedule.

Is the schedule you're following right for your writing life? What is the best time for using your creative energies? There are best times to write, relax and socialize for each of us. Many of us are still at the mercy of a day job, commute and boss and only have a few precious hours to devote to the craft. But keep in mind - the more things we do at suitable times, the more energy we free up for the writing.

2. Relax

So let's see. You're trying to get clients, build up your portfolio, market your services and keep your website and blog up to date. When is there time to relax?! But all work and no play is a disaster for creativity.

Take a break from writing for walking, swimming, driving, gardening or some other activity with a physical component. These activities allow the creative process to continue even while you're enjoying some down time.

And don't forget about sleep. Find right amount of sleep for you and stick to it!

3. Shape your surroundings

Not everyone can choose to live in a house overlooking the ocean in Big Sur or a luxury apartment in Manhattan but how happy you are with your surroundings has a huge impact on the creative process. Take the time to really think about the type of community you want to sink roots in.

When you do find your ideal environment, organize the space with objects that are meaningful and conducive to the use of creative energies. Also, develop a routine for storing things so energy isn't wasted searching for misplaced items.

4. Keep a journal.

Get in the habit of writing down the things that happen to you. This way these moments are not lost forever soon after they occurred. Life is more enjoyable when our experiences are concrete and enduring.

5. Set a writing goal every day.

We write because we must and we all have something to accomplish each day whether it's a personalized marketing letter for our own business or a press release for a client. Don't just stare at your pile of work and hope for the best - prioritize and get to work! If you fall short, there's always tomorrow.

6. Learn to do it well.

Learning never stops and whether you are an experienced writer or just starting out, there is always room for improvement. Seek out advice from other writers, take a copywriting course, sign up for e-newsletters from masters like Clayton Makepeace and Gary Bencivenga and mostly importantly WRITE EVERYDAY. Not only will your writing improve but your confidence will soar.

7. Banish fear

Think about it for a second - you studied the master copywriters, you spent money on courses and you have the skills and the desire to succeed in this business. So what's stopping you from going after the clients and making the big bucks? It's fear. And unless you deal with it now it will stop your budding copywriting career dead in its tracks.

So get out there and do what needs to be done. A group of marketers once said, "You don't have to get it right, you just have to get it going." So make a list of everything you are afraid of and tackle them one by one.

8. Come up with a mechanical writing process.

The goal is to get words on the page, right? So come up with your own routine that includes a subject, a few minutes of research, word lists, 5 minutes of free writing, and a break. This will trigger your right brain and get the creative juices flowing.

9. View things differently

It doesn't matter what it is - a child, your mother's laugh or the way a friend tells a joke. Experience this one thing for what it is without judgement and really enjoy it for what it is.

10. Be unpredictable.

Change your hairstyle, say good morning to a stranger or express an opinion you've never revealed. Breaking out of your old routine can free up energy and invite new opportunities.

(c) Karen Fultz 2007

About the Author

In additon to being a certified yoga instructor, environmental consultant and vegetarian chef, Karen Fultz also writes succinct, well-organized and creative copy for businesses, large and small. She currently lives in Brooklyn, NY. Check out her website at http://kfultz-consulting.com