How To Overcome Writer’s Block
Overcoming writer’s block. This is something that almost all writers deal with at least once in their career – if you’ve never had to deal with this beast, you are the chosen one. Firstly, before we can comprehend how to overcome writer’s block, we need to understand what it really is and why you as a writer might be struck with it. So, let’s ask ourselves: What really is writer’s block?
Definition:
the condition of being unable to think of what to write or how to proceed with writing.
“the novelist recovered from a two-year bout with writer’s block”
In other words, it’s the true monster of the writing world!
The most common reasons for writer’s block are as follows:
- Fear. This is a very common reason for writer’s block as authors are often scared to put themselves out there. Fear of rejection and criticism is a struggle for many but there will never be a yes if you don’t first try.
“I love my
rejection slips. They show me I try.” – Sylvia Plath
- Self-criticism. Whilst important, this
can also become a dangerous habit. Without our own self-criticism, how can we
improve? However, it’s crucial to know when to stop criticising yourself and
let others take a look at your hard work.
“You’ve been criticising yourself for years and it hasn’t worked. Try approving of yourself and see what happens.” ― Louise Hay
- Perfectionism. This is one of the most
common reasons for writer’s block. We want everything to be perfect and will
take nothing less. Sometimes this even stops us from writing anything,
but it’s important to remember that everything can be improved, and nothing is
perfect.
“Don’t aim for perfection. Aim for ‘better than yesterday’.” ― Strider Marcus Jones
How Do I Overcome Writer’s Block?
We’ve put together a few of our top tips for getting back into the flow of writing.
PLAN YOUR WORK
Firstly, you should think about planning your work. While it’s great to let the words flow freely and see where the story takes you, it’s also a good idea to have a clear picture of what’s going to happen. Even if it’s just something to refer to when writing. This often keeps that pesky writer’s block at bay! So, if you’re having trouble with what’s next, pull up a blank document (or get out your trusty notebook and pen) and jot down the key plot points in your story. Perhaps a mind map might help you best? Just make sure that you have some notes to help you push the story along.
FIND YOUR COMFORT ZONE
Where do you feel most comfortable and motivated to write? Maybe it’s in a crowded coffee shop because you love the atmosphere, or perhaps it’s tucked up in bed because you love the silence, for example. Wherever it is, find it and create a routine. Us humans are creatures of habit and it’s easy to fall into something (such as writing) when we’re in an environment that is serene to us.
READ
Reading is often just as important as writing; how can you learn without first studying? Therefore, you should look at reading as a fun and creative way to research. Take the time to read the genre that you’re writing, and you’ll soon notice an improvement.
TALK TO OTHERS
If you’re really stuck and don’t know where to go next, look to friends, family or other authors that might be able to help you. Talk to them about your book and bounce some ideas around. It’s amazing what a bit of brainstorming with another person can achieve. Just speaking to someone can also help excite and motivate you to start writing again!
FINALLY, TAKE A BREAK
Most importantly, take the break you deserve. Whether it’s a quick break to brew some coffee/tea and refresh your mind, or a week-long break to regenerate. In conclusion, whatever you need, take it, and I’m sure you’ll come back ready to write again.
“When words don’t come easy, I make do with silence and find something in nothing.” ~ Strider Marcus Jones, Poet” ― Strider Marcus Jones
So, you’ve moved on from the writer’s block beast and you’re ready to get typing again. Well, we want to read it! Be sure to share your story with us here: http://s915487432.websitehome.co.uk/submissions/
