What is writer’s block?
Writer’s block is a familiar foe of mine. One minute I am on a hot writing streak and then…nothing. The blinking cursor has mocked me on more than one occasion. Each time I overcome it, but it doesn’t make it any less frustrating. It helps to have some idea how to beat writer’s block. I have tried various techniques – taking breaks, reading books on improving dialogue, structure, etc. Once you have some strategies in your arsenal, writer’s block becomes less of an enemy. Instead, it is part of the creative process.
Write anything.
Shopping lists, doodles, every inane thought that pops into your head. I like to find and answer questions about the writing process. It gets me writing while reminding me why I enjoy it so much. I keep a daily journal, so I consistently write, even though it isn’t creative. Recently, I have started tracking each writing project using a spreadsheet. I see everything at a glance and move on when my main project has hit the brakes. This way I have a group of stories I am consistently working on.
Talk to other writers
Some of my best writing has come from collaborating with other writers and getting them to read my work. Bruna Martins Garcia, a PhD Student from Brazil, managed to gain confidence in her writing. She did this by setting up a writer’s club and sharing her work with other people. It always helps to have fresh eyes look over your work. It’s even better if they are your peers working in a similar field or genre. Receiving feedback, praise and compliments in a judgment-free environment can do wonders for your writing.
Read more
I have lost count of how many times reading has inspired me to pick up my writing. While reading can be done for fun, it is also helpful for the aspiring writer. Why did the author choose that description? Why did they make the choices they did? Reading allows us to ask these questions, and we find the answers in our work.
Set word count goals
I don’t find this helpful but I know some writers who swear by it. Their main goal is to get words out. There is even a year-long challenge/writing community of the same name. The challenge, called Get Your Words Out, promotes working towards set writing goals.
Get some rest
Sometimes you’re tired and taking a break is necessary. Forcing yourself to write can cause more harm than good. I tend to get my best ideas when I’m exhausted and can’t string a sentence together. I have started taking notes to come back to later. This allows me to take the break I need without feeling like I am losing time.
…and sometimes you have to wait it out
Writing is not easy. Sometimes I will not write for months (*points at this blog*). And times when I am cranking out thousands of words a day. Writing is not just putting words on paper. It’s editing and manipulating them, turning them from blinking ashes on a screen to a phoenix with a special title. There is nothing wrong with putting writing on hold and giving yourself time to come back to it naturally.
Further reading
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