Writer’s block is, surprisingly, a rather controversial subject. Some authors adamantly refuse to acknowledge its existence, or even to say the name, arguing that naming something gives it power. While the semantics are arguable, it is an indisputable fact that sometimes the urge to write leaves us. Whether it is due to procrastination or a section of text that is difficult to write, we may find ourselves staring at the blank screen and wishing to be anywhere but in front of it. The following tips can help you to keep this beast that must not be named at bay:
Set aside a spot for writing that is free from distractions and clutter. Having an “office” helps you to get into the mood to write because you feel like you are “at work” whenever you sit down to write.
Write through the urge to procrastinate. When it seems impossible, write something other than your current work in progress to help clear your mind. Write jokes, limericks, poems, puns, or skits; anything to get the creative juices flowing again. Form a habit of writing daily, at a specific time, so that you are primed for the activity. On days you do not feel like sticking to the habit, force yourself to sit at your desk and stare at the blank screen. One of you is bound to give in, and the screen is not going to be the first.
When you feel completely stuck, talk to a friend about your writing and how stuck you feel. Bouncing your ideas off a fresh mind will help you to organize your thoughts and brainstorm your way out of the quagmire.
When facing internal resistance, allow yourself to take it easy. Write small bits of whatever comes to mind. Try freewriting as a tool to declutter your mind and free your imagination. If maintaining focus is hard, try the Pomodoro technique of time management - working for short intervals of about 30 minutes and taking breaks in between sessions.
Take a walk whenever you feel writer’s block setting in. Allow yourself some time to reset and restore your energy supplies. Taking a walk in nature is therapeutic for most people. It revitalizes them and boosts creativity. Taking a break is not a mistake, especially when you are suffering from mental exhaustion. Working out also helps to refresh the mind and reduce background noise. A nap is also a great way to reset before going back into the thick of writing.
Reading is one of the best ways to gain ideas. Whenever you start drawing blanks creatively, try to read something. Read anything at all. As you think through whatever you are reading, your creativity will no doubt be ignited.
As you write, avoid editing for grammar and punctuation in your first draft. Do not nitpick on specific details either. Overthinking can cause you to get stuck before you get started. Rather, do your editing in the post-writing phase after the full picture is in view.
These tips should help you deal with writer’s block better and churn out more work. For those who wish to write a book but lack either the time or expertise, we offer ghostwriting services to ensure that the idea you have turns into a book. Call us on 0716680329! Let us help you get that book out there!
