So, you've sat down with an idea and a notion to write and all that's come of it is a blank screen or page? Firstly, don't panic, it is completely fine to experience writers block every now and then. Generally, it clears eventually and is a normal occurrence be it for a class essay writer or a best-selling novelist. However, let's say that your block hasn't cleared after the usual steps, or you need it gone fast. What are some ways to help chug on past that "oh shit, nothings coming to me" moment?
Feed the beast!
Writing is a monster, as is the inspiration and motivation to complete it. Just like all animals, it needs nourishment to thrive. This is true of almost every creative process, and a crucial part of keeping the cogs turning in your brain. If you are experiencing writers block or find it to be a common hurdle to clear set aside time before your writing --- be that right before or whenever you can afford the extra time during the day --- to look at inspirational things. Create Pinterest boards related to your writing topic. Listen to your favorite authors talk about their processes and creations. Find some music that sets you in the world you want to create. Whatever your inspirational means, use it to feed the need to write. We all find it easy to put words onto paper when we're inspired, but inspiration doesn't come from thin air, it comes from experiences. One of the best practices is to find what helps to motivate and inspire you and set aside at least an hour of time devoted to just indulging in that media.
Time tic-tic-tics!
One of the biggest issues with writer's block is that time passes oddly while we're staring at that blank screen. Minutes feel like hours and hours minutes, the pressure of doing "something" looms over your shoulder whispering about all the reasons this should have been easy. But no dice, the minutes pass and that screen is still blank. So, what to do? A great way to help bypass the overwhelming need to write something even when nothing comes is to set a timer. Odd right? You'd think the introduction of a clock ticking away the seconds would create more pressure but more often than not it can provide a relief. Knowing that however many minutes from now that you can take a breather can frequently be just what the doctor ordered. On the flip side, the anxiety to write something in that timeframe counting down to an alarm can be just the kick the butt to get the words flowing. Try setting short 10–15-minute timers, no phone, no music, no distractions and focus. Once the alarm has sounded, stand up, stretch, get a snack, do something that is unrelated and come back in a few minutes to repeat.
Change'er up!
So often we get stuck in the same routine. You use the same writing method, the same seat, the same everything. Humans really are creatures of habit. But habit leads to stagnation and writing is a creative focus. Creativity needs to grow to improve, and sadly that means stepping out of your comfort zone. If all else fails, give a change a try. Sit at a different table at the coffee shop, maybe even a different coffee shop. Give digital a try if you are a paper and pen lover or vice versa. Snuggle in bed to do your writing or sit outside in the sun if that's something you don't normally do. Whatever the change, however small or large, alter your writing habit in some way. While often clanky at first, the change in scenery or routine can often provide just the right amount of "new" to help us forget the block and just get down to business.
Whatever your preferred method of overcoming writers block, the one biggest factor will always be you. You have to work to jump that hurdle, whatever the method. A strong will, good attitude, and solid determination will take you farther than you honestly can imagine.
So, buckle down my friend, break out the coffee, and get those words sprinting!
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