Writer’s Block

Writers’ Block is a condition of being unable to think of what to write or how to continue writing. For many writers, ‘writers’ block’ is a familiar nemesis that stalks them while they sit grim-faced at their laptops or staring blank-eyed at their notepads while looking for inspiration for their next literary work. And whether you are a master writer or a newbie writer, ‘writers’ block’ will inevitably become well-known to you as you journey through the creative process. Below are some of the causes of Writers Block;
• Distractions: Few of us have the luxury of being free Sent from my iPhone
• High Expectations: A mistake which many writers make is by setting their sights too high. The best advice you can give writers is to write the first draft as quickly as possible. When you have the first draft, you have a solid base to build on, and all the “problems” you predicted will work themselves out as you massage and craft your resource.
• Alcohol / Drugs: If you frequently consume alcohol or drugs, it can adversely affect your reasoning and ability to express your ideas in writing form. Other drugs that act as depressants and reduce the writer’s ability to think consciously.
• Anxiety: Having any anxiety condition can make writing tough, particularly when done under pressure for a school project or something formal. Individuals with anxiety always feel that they will be judged by their readers based on every word
There are no fast and hard rules while confronting ‘writers’ block,’ but I believe it can be tackled. Below are tips that can help you to confront/tackle ‘Writers’ Block.’
• Take a Break: Overworking your brain can make it shut down, so it’s better you take a nap, watch a good movie on Netflix or do anything that relaxes your brain. Too much stress can stunt your creative process for a longer period.
• Pick up a Book: Reading a book that you love is a smart way to get the juices flowing. Reading stimulates the creative section of the brain. The point of the reading exercise is for inspiration, and sometimes that’s all we need to keep the writing flowing.
• Eliminate Distractions: Distractions does not only make the process of writing less effective, but they can make us lose the flow of our work. If you got a perfect start at the beginning of your paper, but suddenly got caught up texting a friend, you may now have writer’s block. Get rid of all distractions and concentrate on the topic at hand.
• Get Inspired: If you lack inspiration, do your best to discover a little bit. This may require reading some inspirational quotes, reading new stuff, or thinking about the people that inspire you. It could be as simple as having a conversation with a friend or writer that gives you your next idea.


5 comments

  • Great advice

    KEITH LONDON
  • Definitely going to try these tips. I’ve been in a slump for months now. Also goinf to testout Michaels advice with the small goals as well.

    Sammie
  • Definitely going to try these tips. I’ve been in a slump for months now. Also goinf to testout Michaels advice with the small goals as well.

    Sammie
  • I’ve been writing professionally for two decades, including 12 years as a creative writer. I recently completed my Bachelors in English and writing, which allowed me to work with authors and technical writers. If you’re writing professionally, you can’t afford to get writer’s block. Those tips you mentioned are helpful Elsa and I use all of them. For me, one of my biggest distractions is the Internet. It’s so easy to browse the web when you’re writing on a laptop or PC. Good tips!
    Michael Rickard
  • Hey there! I’ve been there before-sure we all have. Writer’s block is truly a killer for writers. You mentioned that picking up a book is great for freeing yourself from writer’s block. I agree. Another way I would suggest to find inspiration or at least get something onto paper is by setting a small goal for yourself daily. Even a small daily words typed quota could spark something in your mind that you could build upon.

    Michael

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