Blog 6 Top Tips For Getting Over Writer's Block
By Ross | Kids, Toolkit, Top Tips, Writing Tips
As a writer, you know that the blank page can be both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, it's a clean slate, ready to be filled with your thoughts and ideas. On the other hand, it can be incredibly intimidating, especially when you're suffering from writer's block.
Writer's block is a common problem that many writers face at some point in their career. It can take many forms, from simply not knowing what to write about, to feeling overwhelmed by the task at hand, to feeling like you're not good enough to write at all. But don't worry, there are ways to overcome writer's block and get back to writing.
Suffering from writer’s block?
Here are 6 tips that can help:
Sometimes all you need to overcome writer's block is to step away from your work for a little while. Go for a walk, read a book, or do something else entirely. When you come back to your writing, you may find that your mind is clearer and you're better able to focus. A change of pace can help stimulate the brain and give you new perspectives on your writing.
Don't worry about grammar, spelling, or structure when you're first getting your ideas down on paper. The goal is simply to get words on the page, so don't let the fear of making mistakes hold you back. Free writing is a great way to get your thoughts out of your head and onto the page. Write whatever comes to mind and don't stop to edit or critique yourself. You can always go back and edit later.
Remember: The enemy is the blank page. It’s easier to make something perfect, than to create something perfect from scratch!
If you're used to writing in one particular place, try moving to a different room or even a different location. Sometimes a change of scenery can help stimulate your creativity. Maybe you can write at your favourite coffee shop or park, or if you are used to writing at your desk, try writing on a couch or bed. Experiment with different places and see if it makes a difference.
If you're struggling to come up with ideas, try using writing prompts to get your brain working in a different way. You can find prompts online or in writing books. These prompts can be a word, a phrase or a question. Prompts can be a great way to get over writer's block, as they can help to jump-start your creativity and give you a starting point for your writing.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by a large writing project, break it down into smaller chunks. Set yourself small goals for each day or each week and focus on completing those rather than worrying about the whole project. For example, if you're writing a novel, set a goal to write a certain number of pages or chapters each day. By breaking the project down into smaller parts, it will feel less daunting and more manageable.
It’s easy to get bogged down with the writing process – when you’re busy thinking about what you need to do to take your book from an idea to a printed book, it can distract you from the creative process. Using a writing toolkit will help guide you in the writing process and make sure that you have everything you need to create your vision.
Sometimes, what you really need to do is bounce your ideas off someone. This can help you get to the root of a problem. Something that programmers and coders do when they’re trying to figure out what’s wrong with their code is a technique called “Rubber Duck Debugging” where they’ll tell their trusty rubber duck what they’re trying to do. Sometimes, just trying to explain things can help you realise where you’re stuck and help you think of a way forward – it might sound weird but give it a try!
In conclusion, writer's block is a common problem that many writers face, but with the right approach, it can be overcome. By taking a break, writing freely, changing your environment, using prompts and breaking down the task, you can help to get your creative juices flowing once again.
Remember to be patient with yourself and don't be afraid to seek help if you need it. There are many resources available online, such as writing groups and forums, where you can connect with other writers and get support and advice.
Thanks for reading, and until next time, happy writing!
Published: Tue 31st Jan 2023