Every writer goes through writer’s block at some time or the other in his or her life. There can be many possible reasons for a writer’s block, like fear, anxiety or even the beginning of a new project. So, are you suffering from a situation where you just can’t seem to think clearly about what you want to write? Are you feeling like your writing is getting tired and sounding flat, and you can’t seem to write more? First of all, take a deep breath and relax! It happens to everyone. Here are 5 ways to overcome writer’s block.
1. Make Use of Your Hobbies
If you are stuck with writer’s block, leave writing for a while, maybe a couple of hours or even a day, and take time out for your hobbies. If you like listening to music, turn up the speaker volume and listen to songs. If you like dancing, put on your dancing shoes and dance. Move around, and get the blood flowing in your body. It will refresh your mind, and will be of great help. You could also go for a walk in your neighbourhood, and look at the things around you for inspiration. Find an interesting spot in your locality, it may be crowded or secluded. Sit there and observe.
2. Read Your Old Work
Do you feel like you have lost your touch? Sometimes, it’s good to look back on the work that you have written, for inspiration. It will help you remember how you used to write in the past and it will take the pressure off you. It will give you the confidence that you need to move forward. It will also help you remember why you started writing in the first place.
3. Take a Detour
If you are stuck in some part of the story, don’t be afraid to skip to another part of the story that you are comfortable with. If you are stuck at the beginning of the story, skip to the middle, or imagine how it will end and start there. Once you have written the ending, work towards reaching that ending that you have written.
4. Reconsider Your Workspace
Are you comfortable where you are writing? Is the place well-lit? Maybe you could settle for a change in your workspace. Try switching to a different room in the house, or maybe even go out to a coffee shop to write. Habitual behaviour may help you write at times, but when in a block, move around. Having a change in surroundings can often lead to a fresh perspective, and maybe this will help clear your block.
5. Start Writing First Thing in the Morning
As soon as you wake up, and before you get to work, take some time to try writing something, anything. Maybe write about the sunrise you just witnessed, or the dream you just had. Make sure you do this before you sit to read the newspaper, your e-mails, or listen to your voicemails. You can actually get the best out of your writing when your mind is fresh, after it has had a good night’s sleep. It may be a small piece that you write, but it will help you clear your mind and get back that confidence.
Image credit: Drew Coffman on flickr and reproduced under Creative Commons 2.0
Pranay Kanagat is a freelance writer who has a love for writing on various subjects. In particular, he enjoys creative writing. He is also studying for an Engineering degree.