How do you cure writers block?

1. 61

   Elizabeth99posted 13 years ago

   How do you cure writers block?
   
   When writers block strikes, what do you do to help yourself get back in the writing mood again and come up with something?

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2. 61

   rachelsholidayposted 13 years ago

   Definitely a good question.  I find that doing something active really helps me when I have writers block.  I know this probably sounds lame, but sometimes I'll stop and cook my dinner or put away some laundry.  Otherwise going on a walk is always really helpful to me.

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3. 60

   THE DIVINE YOU.posted 13 years ago

   Read related materials. Take a break. Say some prayers. Remind yourselves why you need to write more.

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4. 80

   BenWritingsposted 13 years ago

   WOW, i hate writers block
   
   Sometimes music, or thinking of emotions that are normally strong within you
   
   Focus on the unseen. Open your mind to flowing of thoughts.
   
   Let your fingers simply speak for you

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5. 60

   SeenButNotHeardposted 13 years ago

   They say insomnia is the best cure for writers block. Usually any quiet space works for me (during the daytime hours). If that doesn't work there are a ton of writing exercises you could do to get your creative juices flowing again.
   Though I think the key is to just relax

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6. 60

   sam70posted 13 years ago

   I've found that browsing through the top 10 list of most article sites to be very motivational.  For instance, reading the top 100 Squidoo lenses helps me think of related topics.  My mind can wander easily, so the hard part is focusing.

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7. 60

   MickSposted 13 years ago

   Writers block has many causes, nearly all brought about by procrastination - I must sharpen my pencils - I'll just check my email - I'd better wash the dishes first, clean the oven, vac the floor...
   There is another cause - talking out:  you have this wonderful idea for a story/article and you tell your friends, your parents, other writers... before you know it, you told the story and your head feels satisfied that you've done the work.
   So, how to cure it
   A)  Don't procrastinate, the dishes can wait another hour.
   B)  Keep your mouth shut, so that the only place for the idea to come out is on the paper.
   There is sometimes the problem of just not feeling like writing, fine, take a break, go for a walk - take your note book with you, and if you still don't feel like it, just write any old rubbish that pops into your head, until it starts to make sense.

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8. 60

   Mark Ewbieposted 13 years ago

   I just stop writing.  Because this is not my main source of income.  The idea of having to write to a deadline, or as a job, is quite scary to me.
   
   If it's an article that I can't finish I just put it to one side, maybe for days.  Try something different.
   
   And yeah, walking, washing up, anything physical is great for unwinding the knots in your head.

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9. 61

   tinawehaposted 13 years ago

   drink heavily and write, then look at the writing a few days later and make it into something good.
   
   I'm just making that up but it sounds good.  I never have writer's block.

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10. 64

    Gyldenboyposted 13 years ago

    Writer's block is a myth. One, that is often a self limiting belief that can easily be broken.
    
    If your stuck, that just means your character's voices aren't loud enough. You don't know, enough about them. Interview your characters. Write down their desires, how they plan on achieving these desires, and their back story. How does it conflict, with other characters?
    
    Basically, research can help resolve the most common reasons for why writer's get stuck.
    
    Ultimately, writing like any art is about discipline. And, there are many ways to continue writing even if you think there's nothing to use.
    
    Sometimes, you gotta sit yourself down. And not allow yourself to move till you meet the quota you want in writing.
    
    You must also, never judge your first draft till it's done. That can wait till it's time to edit. I know some people who do, myself included at one time - but this can slow you down.
    
    Try to write ideas down regularly too, this should help ideas become more frequent. Never think, an idea is not good enough. Write it down anyways, even if it's just on a notepad.
    
    Surrounding yourself with people helps too. Not necessarily when your writing. But, people watching can generate new ideas. Sit in cafe, or watch people when your bored passenger. Imagine, what the back story of a person is you see. By what they wear, the accent they have when they speak. What does the jewelery tell you? The tattoos, if any? The scars, if any? One of the best tools for a writer, is curiosity.
    
    I don't drink, or do drugs. So, I know external substances are not needed. The power of creativity exists in you to write so long as you have the determination.
    
    If your still struggling - exercise is the number one key to creativity. More oxygen is drawn in, carried by blood through the body, in which there is now more moving through the mind. Increasing that brain power.
    
    Want another boost? Omega 3 pills using fish oils, is a natural addition that can help you if taken daily. It's safe, improves heart health, and more importantly helps the mind. Can find it in any vitamin section in grocery stores.
    
    At anyrate, I wish you luck madam. And, never give up.

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11. 59

    AmandaLBrantleyposted 11 years ago

    Writer's block is very frustrating. When it occurs, I write in my journal, write random words on paper, make word maps, or just try another activity for about ten mins. I draw sometimes and that usually helps to release any emotions I am holding on to. I also focus on my breathe. Relax and it will come. Most likely when you are ready to throw in the towel. It can be funny like that.

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