How To Defeat Writer's Block | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Politics and Activism

How To Defeat Writer's Block

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

31
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.



Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

1805
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
college

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

1002
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

785
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

11 Signs You Live At The Library As Told by 'Parks And Recreation'

A few signs that you may live in the library whether you'd like to admit it or not.

739
brown wooden book shelves with books

Finals week is upon us. It is a magical time of year during which college students everywhere flock to the library in attempt to learn a semester's worth of knowledge in only a week. For some students, it's their first time in the library all semester, maybe ever. Others have slaved away many nights under the fluorescent lights, and are slightly annoyed to find their study space being invaded by amateurs. While these newbies wander aimlessly around the first floor, hopelessly trying to find a table, the OGs of the library are already on the third floor long tables deep into their studies. Here is a few signs that you may live in the library, whether you'd like to admit it or not.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments