5 Tips For Overcoming Writer’s Block

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Because we’ve all been there.

If you've happened upon this post it's likely you're stuck in a writing rut, and believe me, I know all about those. Staring at a blank screen can be incredibly frustrating, but the good news is that there are steps you can take to overcome the dreaded writer’s block.

Here are 5 of my favourite ways to clear my head and get back to writing productively.

Take a break

Sometimes, stepping away from the screen is the best way to recharge your brain and start thinking creatively again. Grab your headphones, load up a podcast or playlist and just go for a walk. 9 times out of 10 you'll come back to your desk filled with new ideas.

Change up your space

If you usually write in the same place, try going somewhere new like a local cafe, park, or library. Or, if you have a home office, it might be time for a little revamp. Try adding new art, plants, lighting—small decorative touches that will energise your workspace. I usually find that new surroundings spark new ideas.

Free Write

Close your laptop and pick up your favourite notebook and just write whatever comes into your head. Literally anything. Don't overthink it, don't try to edit as you go, just let your brain lead the way. If you can't think of anything to write, write "I can't think of anything to write" over and over until a different thought comes. Sounds a bit silly, but you never know what you might come up with. Some of my favourite work has come from doing this writing exercise. I like to set a timer for 15 or 20 minutes and just see what happens.

Read

We've all got our go-to authors, publications and blogs that we enjoy, so open one up and have a read. Take notes or highlight sentences you find inspiring and analyse why you like that particular style. Allow yourself be inspired by the work of others and see how it can positively impact your own work.

Talk it out

Sometimes the best thing to do is hash out your thoughts with someone you trust. Explaining your ideas to someone else will help you to better understand them yourself, and their feedback might even help you generate new ideas.

Above all remember, as a general rule: be kind to yourself, and the words will come.

~ prb