Divorce is tough. It can leave you feeling lost, hurt, and unsure of what’s next. One way to heal and find peace is through creative writing. Writing allows you to express your feelings, release emotional pain, and explore your thoughts in a safe, personal way. The best part? You don’t need to be a professional writer to start.
In this blog post, I’ll show you how to start creative writing, share tips, and provide a list of helpful resources, guides, and tools that will make it super easy for you to begin your healing journey through writing.
Why Creative Writing Helps After Divorce
Writing is more than just putting words on paper. It’s a way to process emotions and find clarity during a difficult time. Here’s why it works:
- Emotional Release: Writing helps you let out feelings you may not feel comfortable sharing with others.
- Clarity: It allows you to organize your thoughts and understand your feelings better.
- Empowerment: By telling your story, you regain control over your narrative.
- Growth: Writing helps you reflect on your experiences and learn from them.
Step 1: How to Start Creative Writing
If you’ve never written creatively before, don’t worry! Follow these simple steps to get started:
1. Create a Comfortable Space
Find a quiet spot where you feel relaxed. It could be a corner of your living room, a café, or even your bedroom.
2. Start Small
Begin with short writing exercises like:
- Writing about how you’re feeling today.
- Describing a happy memory.
- Journaling for 10 minutes without stopping.
3. Set a Routine
Set aside 10–15 minutes daily for writing. Consistency is more important than perfection.
4. Don’t Worry About Grammar
This is about expression, not perfection. Let the words flow without worrying about spelling or grammar.
5. Try Writing Prompts
Writing prompts are great for beginners. Here are a few to try:
- “The happiest day of my life was…”
- “If I could change one thing, it would be…”
- “What I want most in life right now is…”
Resources to Help You Start Creative Writing
Here are some tools, websites, and guides to make your writing journey easy:
Websites for Beginners
- Writers.com
Offers online writing workshops for beginners.
(Affiliate Link) - Reedsy Prompts
Free writing prompts updated weekly to spark your creativity. - Grammarly
A free tool to help you with grammar and spelling. (Affiliate Link)
Books on Writing
- Writing Down the Bones by Natalie Goldberg
A classic book that encourages free, fearless writing.
Get it on Amazon (Affiliate Link) - The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron
Focuses on creative recovery and self-discovery through writing.
Buy here (Affiliate Link)
Magazines and Blogs
- The Writer Magazine
Great tips for beginners and inspiration for all types of writing. - Creative Nonfiction
Learn how to write personal essays and memoirs.
Podcasts for Inspiration
- The Creative Penn
A podcast about writing, creativity, and storytelling. - 10-Minute Writer’s Workshop
Short episodes packed with writing tips.
Online Writing Communities
- Reddit Writing Prompts
A friendly space to practice and share your writing. - NaNoWriMo Forums
A supportive community for writers of all levels.
Guides and Courses
- Udemy Creative Writing Course
Affordable beginner courses. (Affiliate Link) - Skillshare Writing Classes
Offers free trials for first-time users. (Affiliate Link)
Step 2: Keep It Fun and Easy
Creative writing should feel enjoyable, not like a chore. Here are a few tips to keep it light:
- Write for Yourself: Don’t worry about anyone reading your work. It’s for you.
- Experiment: Try poetry, short stories, or even song lyrics.
- Celebrate Progress: Give yourself credit for starting, even if it’s just a sentence.
Step 3: Share or Keep It Private
Once you’ve written something, decide if you’d like to share it or keep it private. Sharing your work can feel empowering, but it’s okay to keep it just for yourself. If you’re ready, consider joining a community like Wattpad to share your stories.