5 Strategies to Overcome Writer's Block
At some point, every writer (probably even you) has faced the dreaded wall of writer’s block. It's that moment when the words refuse to flow and the blank page seems to stretch on indefinitely. That little blinking cursor sits on the blank page, taunting you to write something profound. Whether you’re a speaker or coach trying to write a book for your clients, or a freelance writer juggling multiple projects and tight deadlines, writer's block isn't just frustrating—it can be career-damaging. Fortunately, I have numerous strategies to help you break through the block and unleash the creativity within.
Understanding Writer's Block
Before we dive into solutions, let’s first get clear on what writer's block really is. It's not just a lack of words; it's usually a symptom of deeper issues. The five most common causes of writer’s block that I see in clients include:
Fear of failure – “What if no one buys the book I’m working so hard to write?”
Desire for perfection – “I can’t write something unless it’s profound and amazing.”
Exhaustion – “I’ve been writing for months and now I’m tired and stuck.”
Imposter syndrome – “Who is ever going to listen to me or read anything I write?”
Overachieving – “I’m juggling so many projects and obligations right now that I can’t slow my brain down enough to write.”
Do any of these sound familiar? Recognizing the root cause of your block is the first step to overcoming it.
If you are experiencing writer's block, realize that you are not alone. It can strike anyone, from seasoned authors to business leaders, and recognizing its universality can be oddly comforting.
Strategies to Overcome Writer's Block
Working on the root cause of your writer’s block is key to overcoming it. But that often takes time, and you need to write some words now. So here are a few tried and true strategies that can help you make the first steps to overcoming your hurdles and putting some words on the page.
1. Give yourself permission to write garbage.
Most professional writers will tell you that they write garbage every single day. I certainly do! Give yourself permission to do the same. Just because you write some “garbage” doesn’t mean it will stay there forever. The goal is to get something—anything—out of your head. No one else ever needs to see it.
When you give yourself permission to write “garbage,” you also give your brain permission to generate new thoughts, and you will be able to turn the “garbage” into something worth keeping. Most important, you will no longer fear the blank screen.
2. Establish a Routine
Even if you are a spontaneous spirit, establishing a routine can help you break through a block. Set a daily writing schedule and stick to it, even when the writing feels forced. (Refer back to tip 1.) Actually schedule writing time in your calendar and honor that commitment to yourself.
Part of the routine could include some warm-up writing exercises to get the creative juices flowing. For example, instead of diving into writing chapter one, start by writing a small poem or haiku about your topic. You can even write a poem about writer’s block. Make whatever pre-writing exercise you do a part of your process to loosen up your brain and spark some creative ideas.
3. Break Down the Task
Looking at the entirety of a project can be overwhelming, especially if you’ve mapped out a 15+ chapter book. If you’re feeling blocked, forget about the big picture for now. Instead, divide the work into smaller, manageable tasks. Focus on one section (or even one paragraph) to maintain a sense of progress. If you’re on a deadline and don’t have the luxury of doing things slow, prioritize tasks using the Eisenhower Box or similar methods to tackle urgent and important tasks first.
4. Change Your Environment
Sometimes a change of scenery can jumpstart your brain. If you always write in your office, try writing in a new location, like your living room or back patio. Or, go to a cafe, library, or park to write. Additionally, alter your writing hours to find a time when your creativity peaks. Perhaps you always write late at night before bed. Try skipping that one day and instead wake up an hour or two earlier to see if early morning hours are more productive. You don’t know until you try!
5. Engage in Creative Cross-Training
Engage in other creative activities to get your creative juices flowing. For example, draw, paint, or engage in a craft. You don’t have to be good at it; you just have to do it. Remember, you’re not trying to sell this creative project, so don’t worry about its “goodness.” Another idea is to play an instrument (no matter how it sounds) or listen to music known to enhance creativity.
Your Breakthrough Awaits
Overcoming writer's block involves a combination of practical strategies, self-awareness, and sometimes, professional assistance. The good news is that everyone eventually conquers their writer’s block. Just remember that creativity thrives within structure, and even the most stagnant periods can lead to a wellspring of inspiration. So, take a deep breath, employ these strategies, and watch as the words begin to flow once more.
Need more help? Contact me for one-on-one guidance and let’s get your words flowing.