Avoiding Writer Block

Avoiding Writer Block

Writer’s block is a misnomer. If a writer had a block in front of them, they would have something to write about. But, all the same, it is hard to get the creative juices flowing from time to time. Here are a few ways that you can avoid this situation.

What is really going on when you can’t write? It could be a variety of things that are vying for your attention that are more exciting at the time than sitting down and pecking out a story on your computer. Writing looks like a lot of fun but it is actually hard work that begins with a great attitude.
1. Psych yourself out. If you are tired, that will overrule any thoughts of writing. Get yourself in the mood to write by thinking about all of the benefits of getting your articles written right now. For one, you won’t be pushed for time later when you really want to have fun. What do you do when you finish a writing project? Maybe you go for ice cream or spend the entire day watching your favorite movies. Think about how much sooner you can do these things if you get to work right now.
2. Set yourself up for success. Dedicate a section of your home to be your writing area. It could be the table in the dining room or a desk in the den. Wherever it is, design the workspace to be conducive to writing. Don’t do anything but write in that space. That way, when it is time to write, you have a place to go that inspires your writing genius.
3. Accept imperfection. Do you think that all of the famous writers out there became so with their first draft? The first draft is always about getting all of your ideas down on paper. Don’t try to wear the editing hat and the writing hat at the same time. It stifles your work. Instead, be happy with run-on sentences, notes in the margins and grammatical errors. You can always clean it up later.
4. Do more research. If you are having a tough time coming up with what to say, dive back into the research mode and find more information on your subject. The information you have is alright but maybe you are missing that one element that will make your article pop off the page with your readers. You can never do too much research anyway. It just gives you more to work with for future articles.
5. Take a meditation break. Maybe you are anxious about writing your article. Will it be well received? Do I have what it takes to be a writer? All of these thoughts can cause you to end up with a blank creative slate. Take a minute to relax your mind before setting to work.
Are you hitting the proverbial brick wall when you sit down to write? Try these ideas to get those articles written even when you don’t think that you can do it.