Breaking Through Writer's Block

Writing blocks are inevitable. They're just part of the writing journey. When they happen, they're frustrating and sometimes you feel like you're never going to get through them.

 

 

Here are some tips and tricks on how to break through your writer's block:

 

1. Make A Move

If you're used to writing at your desk, maybe move to the dining room table. Go to the library, or maybe the local coffee shop. Sometimes new surroundings can get those creative juices flowing again.

 

2. Set Realistic Goals

As creatives, we tend to shoot for the stars even if that isn't realistic. So instead of setting large goals like finishing the book you're working on, break it down into smaller, short term goals. That could be finishing a chapter, or even a single paragraph. Progress is progress.

 

3.Take A Walk

Sometimes the best way to inspire creativity is to step away from your writing and go for a walk. I've broken through many blocks in my writing by going for a walk and talking out a scene or a character's motivations. Nature can be really inspiring!

 

4. Just Write

This may seem counter intuitive, but hear me out. Sometimes we, as writers, want to sit down and write a master piece right out of the gate, but that's not realistic. There's a reason successful authors don't publish their first drafts. But if you're trying to push through a creative slump, it doesn't matter how good it is. No one's going to see it but you. The goal is to let your mind wander until something clicks and the story starts flowing again.

 

5. Explore Your Creativity

If you're struggling with writing, maybe try another creative medium. This might be Painting, drawing, or scrap booking. For me, it's singing. I'm able to focus on both the creativity and the technical aspects of music while losing myself in the song. It both relives stress and gives my brain something else to focus on.

 

6. Re-find Your Inspiration

What made your want to write books? Was it a book? A movie? Did your love a reading make you want to create stories of your own? For me it was a need to give the couples I love their happily ever after.

 

7. Set Time To Write

It's so easy for life to get in the way of writing. My life is a perfect example of that. Being a small business owner on top of my writing and author career makes balancing everything a challenge. I'll be the first to admit, I'm not perfect at finding balance and I prioritize my mental health above all, so sometimes the writing doesn't get done. But having a schedule, a time set aside each day or week for writing, will not only allow you to make progress in your story, but the structure can remove a lot of stress so you're not constantly thinking about your writing during family activities.

 

8. Writing Prompts

Do you remember when you were given writing prompts in school and told to write a 500 word essay? You can still do that! It can be anything. I used to be in a Facebook group where every Friday where we were given a picture and asked to write exactly 100 words. It was fun, and yes, it got those creative juices flowing.

 

Writing blocks are a natural part of the writing process. Creating something out of nothing, even if it's all occurring in your head, takes a lot of energy. Give yourself permission to work through your creative block. Just because someone else can pump out 10 books a year doesn't mean you have to.