Fighting Writer’s Block

Writer’s block is tough. Every writer knows what it feels like but few can describe the mental process behind it- why sometimes when someone begins to write, their mind is blank and they can’t focus. What is the cause of writer’s block? What can we do about it?

Some writers don’t believe in writer’s block. They say it’s an excuse for not working. There might be something to that- if you don’t believe in writer’s block, you can’t have it can you?

However, for those who have consistent problems getting their ideas on paper, saying writer’s block doesn’t exist is infuriating and not at all helpful. If mental blockage is drying up your creativity, try a new approach.

1. Start A Ritual

A writing ritual can help you get “in the mood” for each piece you are about to write. No need for candles and pentagrams, just get a routine for when you start to write. Arrange your pens, have a cup of coffee, recite your favorite poem aloud. The ritual becomes a habit that tells your overactive mind: “Settle down, it”s time to write.’

2. Fix Your Feng Shui

Your mother told you to keep your room clean, didn’t she? The state of your work space is the state of your mind. The color, objects and layout of your work space influences your mood. For example, the color green is conducive to creativity while red stimulates the appetites. Keep your desk neat, with everything you need- paper, pens, receipts, etc – in order. Don’t keep pictures or objects around that stir up strong emotions.Keep inspirational objects only.

3. Read

Writers draw inspiration from other writers. Sometimes, reading an article, poem or chapter from a work that you admire will turn on that little light bulb in your head.

4. Set Realistic Goals

Every so often, in a fit of zeal and zest, a writer will take it into their head to write 500 pages in a week, or seventeen article sin a day. If you can do it easily, fine, but don’t stretch yourself thin. Stay at your own pace. If you sit there saying ” I have so much to do, I”ll never finish it all’ then you probably won’t even get started, let alone finish.

5. Just Write

Writers often act like little children being forced to go to bed early. First, they want some water. Then, they have to go to the bathroom. Then, they want to play one last game of Tetris. Then, they have to watch Matlock because it’s their favorite episode.

Make yourself sit down and write. No excuses. Have a buddy hold a gun to your head if necessary. Writing every now and then is the worst thing for writer’s block. Your writing will dry up if you don’t use it. Make journaling an everyday habit. If you can’t write a traditional “here”s what I did to day’ journal, just write down random thoughts and ideas.