How To Overcome Writer's Block?

Writer's block is a painful condition where you cannot express what you want to say, even though you seem to be able to express yourself normally. It usually occurs when you are trying to express something specific, such as describing a scene in detail or writing a poem. Writer's block can also occur when you try to concentrate on too many things at once (e.g., writing part of a project and reading other parts at the same time).

Writer's block occurs because you are thinking too much. To break this cycle, take a step back and relax. This allows your mind to let go of the thoughts and worries that have accumulated during the day. You can also meditate, which can increase your creativity and productivity.

How do you overcome writer's block?

Create A Daily Routine.

A regular writing routine is an effective way to overcome your writer's block and get into a flow state. A flow routine includes writing and taking breaks.

Go for a walk or stretch your legs. 

Take time out and breathe deeply. Take a walk around your house. Take your pets (dog or cat) outside and walk them or just let them entertain themselves for a while. This way you can think about something else while you concentrate on your writing. Get a digital clock in the shape of a dog to remind you to set a timer. I like the Anova app because it syncs with my phone and I do not have to worry about resetting my clock.

If you are trying to write an essay, bring a pen and paper with you and schedule a time to write. There are plenty of motivational phrases to help you get started: 

Do it for joy...

"I've written because it fulfilled me. Maybe it paid off the mortgage on the house and got the kids through college, but those things were on the side - I did it for the buzz. I did it for the pure joy of the thing. And if you can do it for joy, you can do it forever." 

- Stephen King

 

You must write it...

"If there's a book that you want to read, but it hasn't been written yet, then you must write it."

- Toni Morrison

 

Blank page...

"You may not always write well, but you can edit a bad page. You can't edit a blank page."

- Jodi Picoult

Better than perfect...

"Done is better than perfect."

- Sheryl Sandberg

 

Persistence...

"You don't start out writing good stuff. You start out writing crap and thinking it's good stuff, and then gradually you get better at it. That's why I say one of the most valuable traits is persistence."

- Octavia E. Butler

To discover…

“I write to discover what I know.”
- Flannery O’Connor

Adverbs…

“empty your knapsack of all adjectives, adverbs and clauses that slow your stride and weaken your pace. Travel light.”
— Bill Moyers

Keep it simple…

“I do not over-intellectualise the production process. I try to keep it simple: Tell the d*mned story.”
- Tom Clancy

Writing is easy…

“Writing is easy: All you do is sit staring at a blank piece of paper until drops of blood form on your forehead.” 

- Gene Fowler

Look for new ways to express your thoughts

This works best if you write something in your own voice and have no desire to publish what you have written. You are free to use or share what you have written. Try writing it to a loved one. Ask for their feedback. Ask for a description of what they like or dislike about what you have written. Try expressing your feelings by writing to a friend who has a similar writing style.

There are many ways to express your thoughts, so try something new. Some options include short stories, poetry, fiction, nonfiction, and even a children's story. You can also explore writing prompts and ask friends for their suggestions for writing prompts.

Change your writing habits

Depending on your style, it can be helpful to write in different ways. You may want to work on short essays and creative non-fiction. You may also want to write more for yourself and not necessarily for others to read. You may also want to write fiction or poetry. The most important thing is to try new things and if they aren't helpful, go back to your tried-and-true writing routines.

Even if you don't like a new writing routine, it's important to try it at least once to see if you like it or not. Sometimes you are not meant to be a writer, and that's okay. Allow yourself to write if you enjoy it, and if not, find something that makes you happy. But at least give yourself a chance to try new things.

Copyright ©2022 by L. Lewis