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Simple Ideas to Overcome Writer's Block

Updated on October 25, 2012

Writer’s Block is something that all writers are familiar with. For those who write as a hobby, writer’s block can be an annoyance, but for those who write to earn their living, writer’s block can become a much bigger evil, as it affects their way of life. Writer’s block is very common, and every writer at some point suffers from the dreaded frustration caused by it. But, by keeping in mind that writer’s block is only temporary, and by using these simple tips and tricks, you can win your battle with writer’s block quicker and get back on the road to writing.

Writer's Groups

Although not every book store has one, sometimes you can find a local book store that offers a “Writer’s Club”. Call around to some of your local stores, especially the larger chain book stores, and ask them about it. If you aren’t able to find one locally, then hop online and check into an online group. See if you can find a group that is geared towards the topics you generally write about.

A writer’s group is a great way for you to get in touch with other experienced writers who can give you tips, pointers, and advice. You can also tell them your ideas, and they will provide you with some excellent feedback. As they share their ideas with you, it may trigger a thought that will help you out in your own writing.

Take a Time Out

Time out is not just for wayward toddlers. Taking a time out from writing may seem counter-productive, but getting away from your desk, out of your home or office, and into places that are filled with people can actually be a great way to overcome writer’s block. As you surround yourself with people, you can overhear things they say and observe their actions, and this can give you some insight to that piece of your writing that is missing.

Research

A key element to writing is to have knowledge about your topic. When you know something inside and out, it seems as though the words just flow naturally from you to your paper or computer screen. If you are stuck on writing, try doing the opposite- spend some time researching your subject. Commit yourself to an hour, two hours, even a day of nothing but research. Gather every piece of data and all the facts you can, and study them until you know them by heart. Take a break, and come back the next day to your computer and try writing again. With all your new found information, you may just find that the words you were stuck on before are no longer a hindrance.

Brainstorm on the Go

Many writing classes try to stress the important of brainstorming. These classes are correct. Brainstorming is a great way to pool all of your ideas and get them into one place. However, it is near impossible to brainstorm when you are drawing a complete mental blank.

Instead of sitting, staring at a blank computer screen, try this: Place a sheet of paper and a pen on your stove, forget all about your writing, and clean your kitchen. Or place them on your coffee table, and watch a movie. Do something that will take your mind completely off your writing, but keep a pen and paper handy. Continue with your day to day task, and watch how many ideas sneak up on you when you aren’t so focused on getting them. Use your pen and paper to jot them down so you don’t forget, and continue on the task at hand. Later, when your sheet of paper is full of ideas, try your hand at writing again.

Relax

As your wife, husband, friends, family, and fellow writer’s will all tell you- just relax. Of course this is much easier said than done when you are so frustrated. But the truth is, the more frustrated and stressed you allow yourself to become, the harder it is to write. You have to find a way to release the stress and tension you are feeling. Relax, read a book, take your significant other out to dinner, play catch with your son. Remember, writer’s block is only temporary, and it will eventually go away. Until it does, get out and enjoy your life.

Just remember, everyone suffers from writer’s block at some point. Although it may feel like, your writing skills have not left you permanently. Take a step back, take a breather, and when you are less tensed, try to again.

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