Writer’s block is the inability to think of something to write, or continue with something you are writing. This condition is usually temporary and more a state of mind rather than a physical incapacity.
Overcoming writer’s block is always a popular blogging topic for writers but it’s not something I have much experience of. When I actually get the opportunity to sit down and write my books, the ideas are brimming over and it’s usually more a case of writer’s cramp than `writer’s block.
So whilst I don’t purport to be an expert on writer’s block here are a few ideas to overcome it.
Only write when you have something to say, if the words aren’t flowing, do something else. I know this is difficult, especially for those who must write so many words per day but a short break can work wonders. Let your mind drift and that insurmountable problem will suddenly have an answer.
My ‘go to’ relaxation is to walk my dogs but a little retail therapy or coffee with friends is often just as good.
If taking a break isn’t an option then work on something else. Writing is writing after all and a blog post or a book review is just as creative as a chapter of your novel. Once you realise you can still write… Well you get my drift?
So if neither of the above works, then just write. Even if the words you’re writing aren’t what you really want to say, sometimes just writing helps the creativity. Remember, you can always change it later but you can’t edit a blank page.
Finally if all else fails, sleep on it. I often problem solve most effectively when I’m asleep and that goes for real life problems too, not just creative ones.
If you have your own solutions to writer’s block comment below or tweet me at @jolliffe03 using #LifeBookswriting