If you are a writer or blogger, you have probably experienced it. Sitting in front of your computer with the blank stare and motionless hands. Yes, most of us have hit that writer’s block before, and it is frustrating. Here are some ways to step away from your project for a bit, and come back with more creative words to write.
Overcome Writer’s Block
1. Get Organized
Above all, you need to have your writing resources organized. Jot down all your writing ideas and deadlines in one spot, and make sure it is with you wherever you go. If distractions are a problem in your office, find a quiet time (like in the morning!) when you will be able to concentrate without interruptions from kids, coworkers or electronics. Find those go-to resources that you can count on for content ideas, research, or feedback. A few examples include Google Alerts, Feedly, customer FAQ’s, your social media contacts and groups, co-workers, professional groups, and just brainstorming!
2. Read
Instead of concentrating on writing, take 20 minutes or so to go read. A good place to start would be either reading related to your topic, or reading related to creative writing (Write to Done is a great blog to read for this purpose – take a look at this post “How to use Reading to Become a Better Writer.”) You could also read something entirely different then what you are used to reading to get your creative juices flowing.
“If you don’t have time to read, you don’t have the time (or the tools) to write. Simple as that.”
– Stephen King
3. Exercise
Literally, walk away from your project. Go get some exercise, even it just means getting up out of your desk to stretch, hitting the gym, doing yoga or taking a short walk around the block and breathing in the fresh air. A new perspective can come from getting your heart pumping and the change of scenery. Plus your shrugged shoulders will thank you for it.
4. Get a Drink
Sure, getting a refreshing drink gets you up and out of your typical writing environment, but it can also spark your brain. Whether your drink of choice is lemon water, coffee, tea, or an evening glass of wine, it can help to bring you back to your project with a new frame of mind. Caffeine is a great boost and will wake up your creative brain.
5. Do Something Creative
Find your inner Picasso and paint, draw or create something with your hands. Even if is playing Play-Doh with your kids, tinkering in PhotoShop, or decorating a cake – you are still doing something creative. Go create something different, then come back to your blog.
6. Indulge your Other Senses
Go find a healthy snack (like fruit) that will give you some brain food. Besides taste, there are other ways to awaken you senses and spark your creative writing. For instance, light a scented candle or turn on your favorite music. Some people are actually more creative working with the background noise of a coffee shop. You may even want to consider getting a massage or meditating.
“The easiest thing to do on earth is not write.”
– William Goldman
7. Just Write! Did you notice that the last five ideas for dissolving Writer’s Block don’t actually involve writing? Of course, if you did all of these in one day, you would not accomplish much writing, but you will be very relaxed. Sometimes it is hard as bloggers to find our voice or style in writing, and easy to focus too much on perfection. Just start writing already!
