If you’re a writer, you’ve probably heard of or experienced writer’s block. This can be a frustrating experience for anyone who is passionate about creating. We’re here to help you understand what writer’s block is and provide some tips for beating writer’s block.
What is Writer’s Block?
Writer’s block is a phenomena that refers to a writer being unable to write or think creatively. Writer’s block can refer to a writer being unable to work on or finish a project, or to their inability to come up with new creative ideas. Writer’s block can last a few days to months.
It’s critical to note that writer’s block is NOT a medical condition.
What is The Cause of Writer’s Block?
There is no known root cause of writer’s block. Based on the writer’s we’ve spoken with, writer’s block seems to occur when:
- Writers feel as though they are under a strict deadline, causing nervous feelings and lack of inspiration.
- Writers feel general anxiety about a project and its direction.
- Writers are experiencing things outside of writing, in daily life, that are impacting their ability to focus intentionally.
What Does Writer’s Block Feel Like?
Writer’s Block can feel like general inspiration. It can also feel like you’re never going to be able to complete a piece of writing, which can be distressing if you have a history of seeing writing projects to completion.
Tips to Beat Writer’s Block
We’ve compiled a list of a few techniques to beat writers block. If you’re currently experiencing writer’s block, or even a lack of inspiration one day, these tips may help you feel more inspired and focused.
- If you have a novel outline or project outline, turn to it: Now is the time to lean on the plans you made before you experienced writer’s block. If you have to, skip ahead to a new chapter or section of the project to start fresh.
- Work through quick writing prompts: Set down your current project and change up your routine by focusing on a few quick writing prompts. Try to keep them shorter than 20 minutes, which should help if you find that concentrating is difficult.
- Read a book: If you can’t progress on your project, turn to a new book. This will help you clear your thoughts, plus you may discover a new author that you love or observe a writing or narrative technique you can utilize in your own writing.
- Recognize the mind body connection: Writers can get wrapped up in their creativity that they forget to or deprioritize their physical health. Explore your creativity in different ways. For example, consider cooking a new recipe, or taking a walk in a park. These activities can help get your endorphins flowing to “get you out of your funk.”
Ready to Get Over Writer’s Block?
We know how frustrating writer’s block can be. Know that you are not the only one to experience writer’s block, and use our tips above to reset your creativity.
When you’re ready to share your writing again, explore our submissions page.