Have you ever sat down to write, but the second your hand hits your keyboard or your pencil touches the paper, no words come out? If this situation sounds familiar to you, you’ve most likely struggled with the infamous writer’s block. Writer’s block is common among almost every writer, including authors of famous novels and series like Maya Angelou and even Mark Twain. The good news is, though it is quite bothersome, it’s easy to overcome!
Take a Walk
Going out in nature is one of the best ways to clear your mind, and it is very beneficial when you have writer’s block. Try taking a walk in your neighborhood, going out in your backyard, or taking a breath of fresh air on your patio. You might find some inspiration outside and it will help you relax.
Read a Book
Reading a book has been said to be very beneficial when you are battling writer’s block. This can boost your creativity and even inspire your story. Just remember to not take too much inspiration from a book; be original!
Take a Shower
A nice, long, shower or a bath can help you relax and get those creative ideas flowing. After all, some of the best ideas have come to us in the shower, right? Try adding some bath salts or a bath bomb to the water, or play some music for an even more relaxing experience.
Try Writing Exercises
Sometimes, your writing skills need to be exercised. A great method for practicing them is doing writing exercises. There are many free writing practices and prompts online that can help boost your workflow and creativity. They might even help inspire a new character or a plot twist!
Do Something Else You Enjoy
If you are struggling with writer’s block, there’s a chance your mind simply needs a break. Try doing something to relax or take your mind off writing, such as listening to music, painting, or cooking! You might find inspiration in one of these activities and it will help boost your mood.
Don’t Be Harsh on Yourself
If you are a perfectionist, like many of us writers out there, sometimes the best thing to do is to silence your inner critic and just write! Your writing doesn’t have to be perfect, especially on your rough draft. Give yourself time and be patient, kind and easy on yourself.
Take a Nap
Yes, you heard it! Your brain could easily be tired and you might just need to take a short nap to get it recharged and ready to go! Your mind needs rest and relaxation, so as a rule of thumb, make sure to get a good night’s sleep when possible.
Have a Friend or Family Member Help
Lastly, try discussing with a fellow writer/friend, or chatting to a family member about the plot of your story and what you are struggling with. Though it is a very simple trick, many writers find it helpful, since it can help you visualize the story and end your indecisiveness of what to write next.
Though writer’s block can be a constant struggle for most writers, these tips and tricks will hopefully make it easier and even end your writer’s block for good. Remember: be kind, forgiving and patient with yourself! You can do it.
Sources:
https://goinswriter.com/how-to-overcome-writers-block/
https://blog.reedsy.com/writers-block/
https://authornews.penguinrandomhouse.com/10-ways-to-beat-writers-block/
This is MAJORLY helpful, I face this with my school and sometimes with the stories I am trying to write. I will take your advice, great article.
This is great! I’m actually trying to write a novel to publish with Amazon (using an article I saw here recently as a reference), and I’ve been getting writer’s block very often. Thanks for writing this!