Caffeine

I hear so many writers who always drink coffee before they write, and that it helps them become more creative in their writing. I was wondering if there were any substitutes to coffee that anyone could think of that would do the same thing. I don't handle caffeine well.

 

There are. Most are illegal in the western hemisphere and have a tendency to lead to unspeakable acts in public restrooms, if celebrity tabloid gossip is any measure.

 

Do you know what's really good for you? That's right - water.

 

Cocaine.

 

A good night's sleep?

 

As one gets older, this commodity becomes more than gold. It becomes diamond encrusted platinum.

 

I find inspiration and motivation when I am dead tired or drunk. My focus and attention to detail crashes though

Write drunk; edit sober, eh?

 

I read somewhere that The Far Side would never have existed if it wasn't for the caffeine Gary Larson ingested just prior to sitting at his drawing table.

Not that it means much but I knock back a half dozen espressos a day.

 

Never drank coffee or other similar drinks in my life. I can't stand the smell.

If you feel like you're sluggish, tired or even a bit depressed—go join a gym. I started working out about two years ago, and after every session I always feel utterly epic! The endorphins released during a work out is way better than any caffeine drink. Admittedly, it is a tough routine to get into. It did feel like a chore when I first started, but now, I look forward to it.

 

I dont think so. I never get so much writing done as when I go on a 4-5 hour sleep per night regiment.

 

I hate to sound mundane here, but a good walk helps.

Especially a walk through familiar and unchallenging landscapes. If you have to think about where you're putting your feet, which direction you need to take or how to dodge double-decker buses and mad cyclists, this will not necessarily spur your creativity ...although it will certainly wake you up!

Walking in an even and unstressed manner always gets my brain (and circulation) going. I find I'm often overspilling ideas when I get back, and some of my most creative writing happens just after a walk.

I do also drink coffee and always get a good night's sleep - 8 hours is my usual. I go to bed early and get up early.

I know, I know. Boring...

 

I meant in the general sense, not so much related to writing output. 7-8 hours of honest, uninterrupted sleep is better than any drug for me.

 

What is this 7-8 hours of uninterrupted sleep you speak of? A myth I tell you! A myth!

 

TEA. I like a delicious cup of hot tea, normally a green-mint tea. Warms up the body, awakens the mind, and soothes my inner issues to begin my day. Speaking of which...I need tea! lol.

 

I think it's a block.

You're telling yourself that you need a coffee to write. Which means that you are less likely to do it in any situation without coffee.

 

Sex or masturbating releases the same endorphins that are released by doing opiates.

 

I have to say... I think I'm less apt to write after sex or masturbation.

 

That just means you are doing too much of the work.

 

Hilarious.

 

They also tend to put me to sleep. Can't write after those!

I agree with @Wreybies: There is nothing, but nothing, like a good night's sleep.

 

Nonsense. If its done right, all involved parties should be exhausted afterwards!

 

I have a friend named Mary Jane who does a very good job serving as my inspirational coach.

 

She is cheating on Spiderman?

 

She and I had a torrid love affair for a number of years. Two of those years, I can say with confidence, were spent in her company 24/7-365. Though she gave me ideas a'plenty and was a muse of muses, she was equally adept at keeping my hand from the page with her sultry kiss.

 

I tried this, and admittedly I love working out, but it doesn't help me write. I get swooped into my exercise mindset and my creativity crashes. I can't focus down on anything sometimes. However, the more active I am, the more productive I become. Though I can't sit and write immediately, over time my brain just starts thinking a bit more creatively.

To the OP, I actually only tried coffee for the first time earlier this month. I can't even say it was pure coffee, I had a caramel latte. The stuff gave me an energy boost and helped me get through hw, but I can't say it did much for my creativity. But then again, it is possible. I've had more creative spurts this month, but I don't think they are related. To be honest, regular exercise, decent sleep, and a decent diet help me. Oh! and meditation every so often.

Tea is also pretty good, but not for everyone. Really I don't believe in supplementing your creative process with anything like caffeine or any drug or alcohol. Just seems ingenuine to me. I mean I hear weed works well, might try it soon, but not for writing.