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Politics and Activism

How To Defeat Writer's Block

These are five ways you can get past this dreadful adversity.

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How To Defeat Writer's Block

Let me tell you, there is nothing I detest more than suffering from writer's block. It makes me question my life choices; if I can't figure out what to write at this very moment I am not a writer. That may seem dramatic, but I know I am not alone in this theatrical response. Seeing as though this is something I have been experiencing lately, I decided it only made sense to compile a few ways I try to defeat this evil affliction.

1. Read a book

Sometimes I feel a literal lack of words in my life. I tend to feel a sense of emptiness in my mind because I haven't read in a long time. Not only will reading bring about inspiration, but it will flood your creative space with words! What more could you want?

Easy read book suggestions: "The Girl On The Train", "Going Clear", and "The Time Traveler's Wife"

2. Write lists

I have never been a huge list maker, but recently I have discovered that maintaining an organized mind is the key to success! These past couple of weeks I have realized that part of the reason I have nothing to write about it because my brain is so chaotic.

3. Talk it out

Talking isn't really my thing. I would much rather sit back and listen to others. However, when I am feeling desperate and cannot, for the life of me, find inspiration it is so helpful to place your burden onto someone else! Just kidding. In all seriousness, talking to someone about why you need help can lead to revelations.

4. Read the news

To be frank, I am most inspired to write when I find something that fires me up. Some of the easiest articles I have written were about Donald Trump and women's rights because these are two things that light a fire inside of me. Although you may not particularly enjoy reading the news nowadays, it is an easy way to become an informed writer and also find something that might interest you.

Reputable news sources: Associated Press, The Economist, theguardian, The Wall Street Journal, PBS, The New York Times

5. Keep a journal

This is something I have always wanted to do, but can never stick to. When I was abroad I kept a journal and it was incredibly therapeutic. It is a great way to record habits, accomplishments, emotions, ideas, etc.



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