I'm following on from a previous post in which I shared some tips on how to make writing a tad easier.

One particular tip was to use the right writing instrument. Over the past few weeks this has proven true time and again as I've discovered the gentle joy of using fountain pens.

Where previously I'd use a trusty pencil to 'set down my stuff' I now use one of the 3 nibbed beauties in my new (and hopefully growing) collection. Despite my 'doctor-worthy' handwriting style, I've always enjoyed the act of writing on paper. Using fountain pens makes me think of it now as the art of writing on paper and how the process of writing is as satisfying as the result.

It's funny but each pen seems to possess its own personality. This means I can match the instrument to the mood I'm in or, alternatively, the mood I want to be in. And, each pen adds its own little idiosyncratic tweak to my handwriting ... which can look quite amusing if I decide to switch pens mid-piece.

For example, my fine-nib dainty little purple Jinhao with the red crystal clip is Little Miss Perfect. Everything has to be 'just so' and 'High Tea' refined. Its black ink means this one really is perfect for filling out official paperwork and signing cheques.

Then there's the black Classic medium-nib with a flashy scroll of a clip and heavy barrel. This pen oozes bold creativity with a bit of a cheeky edge. The dusky purple colour of the ink adds fathoms to one's sense of adventure when writing with this pen.

Lastly, there's the lavender-coloured Mabie Todd Swallow with another medium nib. This pen radiates an understated elegance and inspires writing with 'finesse'.

So there you have it. A tiny glimpse inside my desk at some newfound friends.

What are some of your favourite tools of the trade and how do they inspire you?

The first thing to remember is that in order to write, you don't have to be chained to your computer. Hey, technology's wonderful and I'm the first to admit that without my computer I'd be really stuck. But when it comes to writing, taking a break from that electronic comrade may be just what you need to set your creativity free.

Make a decision to enjoy the experience of writing - of expressing yourself in text and then set yourself up so that it happens.

1. Get a notebook. Now, I'm not talking about your average office style notebook. I mean a really nice hard cover book that's a reflection of your personality. Perhaps it's conservative and faux leather, maybe it's loud and groovy; whatever it is, it should make you smile when you see it.

2. Choose the perfect writing instrument for you. A pen that glides effortlessly over the paper and is comfortable to hold. Perhaps, like me, you like to write with a pencil - freshly sharpened and not too fine. When you feel comfortable with the instrument, you'll notice your handwriting will seem neater and you'll find yourself enjoying the simple act of putting pen (or pencil) on paper.

3. Location, location, location! Take your notebook and pencil somewhere nice. By the fireplace on a cold day or out on the terrace in the sunshine with a plunger of coffee beside you. I've written business proposals in a park and a sales letter on a mountain. Let yourself be inspired!

4. Just write. When you have the first 3 steps in place just write. Even if it's off topic - you'll either get back on topic eventually or create something else that you can still use and be proud of.

Happy writing!