Whether you're a new writer or an experienced one, being productive and achieving your writing goals undoubtedly feels good. The more you write, the more your writing improves, and the more money you can make. However, what do you do if you experience the dreaded writer's block? Here are five smart ways to combat writer's block so you can get back to your old, productive self.
What is Writer's Block?
Writer's block is a period when you're completely unmotivated and unable to write. You might sit at your computer for a while, trying to formulate ideas in your mind, but they just don't come. You sit there with a blank or wandering brain, which can make you feel like a buffoon. Writer's block is no reflection on your writing abilities, and it's simply something that nearly all writers experience at some time in their careers.
What Causes Writer's Block?
There can be many causes of writer's block, and some of the main causes are stress, lack of sleep, and even feeling overwhelmed. This certainly isn't an exhaustive list of possible causes, because there could be any number of other reasons why you can't seem to write. Regardless of the cause, these tips can hopefully help to reverse it.
Smart Writer's Block Combat Technique # 1 - Seek Out Some Writing Prompts
If you're unable to come up with any ideas on your own to write for the day, then why not seek out some writing prompts? There are numerous websites online that offer free writing prompts, and there are even free and paid subscriptions that enable you to be regularly emailed writing prompts. Writing prompts are great for combating writer's block because they force you to think and get your creative juices flowing. While not all writing prompts will be effective, the right choices should work like a charm.
Smart Writer's Block Combat Technique # 2 - Give Your Mind a Break
Some writers experience writer's block because they are simply overworked and mentally exhausted. A nice break can work wonders for reversing writer's block, whether it's for the rest of the day or an entire weekend. In fact, you should give yourself regular breaks. If you absolutely must write seven days a week, be sure it's not 10 -12 hours daily because you're only setting yourself up for failure, as you'll likely become mentally exhausted. Whenever you do work, be sure to take regular breaks, get at least seven hours of sleep each night, and eat a diet full of healthy, high-quality foods, while drinking plenty of water.
Smart Writer's Block Combat Technique # 3 - Create a Routine & Adhere to It
By creating a writing schedule for yourself, you're more likely to be motivated to write during those times. Freelance writers who work full-time from home often feel as if they can write "whenever they want". While this is true, it can sometimes be hard to write, because there is always going to be something else that seems to take priority. If you set a schedule for yourself, you're a lot more likely to write during that time, as well as feel inspired.
Smart Writer's Block Combat Technique # 4 - Opt for a Change of Scenery
You might be surprised at how effective a change of scenery can be at motivating you to write. It can be something as simple as working in a different room inside your home instead of your office. Weather permitting, you might even want to sit outside and write. Sometimes, it might even be necessary to leave your home to find the best temporary writing environment. A local coffee shop can be a great place to combat your writer's block, because not only can you sip coffee and enjoy a snack while simultaneously becoming inspired, but you might find some interesting things to write about while you're out.
Smart Writer's Block Combat Technique # 5 - Make Certain Your Environment is Quiet
Sometimes, when you're motivated to write, you're probably likely to work with the TV or radio on in the background. But when you're dealing with writer's block, you need things to be absolutely quiet, so be sure to do the following:
Turn off your cell phone or place it on "do not disturb"
Be sure the TV and radio are off
Work in a room where you won't be disturbed
Do a brief meditation before you begin working, to help clear your mind of mental clutter
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