How I Beat Writer's Block!

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Writers never think it will happen to them.

“I’m full of great ideas!” They say.

But then the time comes to actually write and...nada.

We’re all different, but writers are all creative. Here are some of the creative ways I beat writer’s block. Please like, comment and share if these work for you too!

Listen To Music

This one seems so obvious, but it’s so often overlooked. I’ve been a performer for a good chunk of my life, so maybe I’m a little biased as to the ~magic~ of music. But, I really believe that it’s universal.

Music has the ability to take you on a journey. We listen to music when we’re sad, angry, happy, drunk and simply when we’re going about our day. Certain songs have links to memories, good and bad, and these are the feelings we need to create characters and stories!

Not sure what to listen to? Here’s a playlist I created on Spotify specifically for creatives. Go on, get yourself some #Headspace.

Take A Walk

There is nothing worse than staring at a blank page, willing your brain to come up with words to fill it. If you have a pet, this is the perfect time to take them for a walk. If you’re petless (I’m bummed for you), get yourself out of the house!

I recommend a walk on a nature trail or if you’re close to water, a walk on the beach. It doesn’t matter where you roam - just do it! Nature is beautiful, enjoy it! Take notes while you’re out. Describe the weather, the trees, the sky. Use your five senses. What does the ocean smell like? What do you hear? You get the idea. All of these things will help you to create a believable setting in your work.

Something about escaping the 4 walls of your home or office relieves tension. You would not believe how creative and recharged you’ll feel coming back to your work in progress (WIP).

Take A Break

Seriously. Don’t put the pressure on yourself. Take 20 minutes for yourself, then come back to your project. The more stressed out you are, the less likely a good idea will strike.

Eat!

I mean honestly, who can work when they’re hungry?! Fix yourself a snack and try again.

Doodle :)

This, or one of those trendy adult coloring books will work. It will focus your attention on the task at hand, so you’ll come back to your writing with a clear, fresh perspective.

Make a list of words that rhyme

This will certainly help if you’re wanting to get in the mindset for writing a poem. On that note, if rhyming is not your forte, make a list of words and then come up with 2-5 synonyms or antonyms for each. This will trigger your mind to think about word choice, and one word could even trigger the perfect description you’ve been needing.

Make an Outline

If you’re trying to write and nothing is coming to mind, this is the time to brainstorm. We all have a different writing technique. Sometimes sitting down to write for one person will not work for another. If the words aren’t flowing, get organized! What type of story are you trying to tell? What does your ideal character look like? Maybe once you clear up the details, you’ll be able to put a story together.

Shake It Off

Take this literally. Stand up. Touch your toes. Stretch your arms to the ceiling. Roll your shoulders back. Do the hokey-pokey and turn yourself around. Shake those muscles loose! Whether this means stretching or an all-out dance party- get moving! The creative juices will flow once you let go.

Field Trip!

Sometimes a change in scenery is all one needs to get back on track. For me, this means taking my notebook or laptop out on the patio. Or, if I have a pressing deadline, I head to the library. Surrounded by books and quiet, it’s the perfect place to get some words in.

Read <3

Good writers are also readers. Feeling stumped? Grab a favorite off your bookshelf or crack open a new book. Reading will spark your creativity because you’re literally reading someone else’s creation.

This is two-part, because sometimes people think of reading as a break. If this person is you, don’t let it be. Try actively reading. Grab a pen and notebook or just scribble in the margins of your book choice. What do you admire about the author’s writing? How could it improve? What are the themes? How do they use symbolism? How are their descriptors? Take notes on other authors to improve your own writing.

Can’t find a book? Here’s Chapter 1 of my YA WIP. No excuses!

Move on!

If you’re trapped in writer’s block and feel overwhelmed, just move on! This may mean moving on to another writing project you’re working on. Or, it could mean to just give yourself permission for a day off.

Don’t get discouraged! Writer’s block happens to everyone. Just don’t let it define you. If you’ve tried all of the tips above, then accept that maybe today is just not the best day to write. It’s your brain’s way of telling you to take a break, so ~listen~.

So, did any of these tips help you get rid of writer’s block? Let me know in the comments!

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