According to Dictionary.com, writer’s block can be defined as, “a usually temporary condition in which a writer finds it impossible to proceed with the writing of a novel, play, or other work.” I believe that almost everyone at some point in their life either has, or will experience and struggle with writer’s block. Personally, I encounter it almost every time I sit down to write something. For those of you that are in the same brain fart situation as me, here are some helpful tips on getting over the writer’s block.
- Clear Your Head: The reason you could be encountering writer’s block is that your mind is full of everything that is going on around you. Take some time to clear your head. Wash away all the distractions and unnecessary junk that’s rattling around in your idea factory. Try taking a walk or do some reading in a quiet space. Whatever gives you some momentum, makes you feel good, and gets you away from distractions. I like listening to music and free writing to get my creative juices flowing.
- Get Started: Even if you don’t have an idea on where to begin your writing or what to write about, just by doing some free writing can help you break loose from the clutches of writer’s block. Start out by writing down the first thing that comes to your mind or describing the last thing you did. Putting your pen to paper may just be enough to give you the push you needed.
- Write Pieces: If you are working on a writing project that has a far away deadline, writing a few sections and then bringing them together may help you. That is, don’t write your entire work in one sitting. I have a tendency to write backwards. For example, I write the ending first, the middle second, and the introduction last and in between each section, I take a break and come back to them at a later point when I have a fresh perspective.
- Talk: If you are unsure of what to write about or how to go about writing a certain topic, ask a friend. You may be seeing your topic in a different light. By going to a friend, they can give you a different perspective. A friend, teacher, family member, or even a stranger can provide you with several ideas and perspectives that will surely assist you. I have found this method very helpful when struggling on what to write about or on how to write about something.
- Write At Your Best And Worse: I know this step doesn’t seem to make too much sense; however, I have been told to write at my best whenever my mind is clear and focused, perhaps when I am wide awake and to write at my worst when I can’t seem to focus or am tired. When you write at your best and worse, you are writing from two different perspectives. You can then bring those two perspectives together to create something that fits both view points.
These tips have helped me greatly when I couldn't think or focus on my writing. I hope they can do the same for you! Also, they tips can be used when you're writing for fun, not just for serious writing.
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