Oh no. It’s the dreaded writer’s block. Ah well . . . Better give it up then, right?
Not so fast! Just because you’re feeling stuck doesn’t mean you have to let it derail your progress. Here are a few tricks to shake things up and get back into your writing flow.
For example, you could look up some basic writing prompts and see if that gets your creative juices flowing. Alternatively, you could vividly describe a scene you witnessed or experienced earlier in the day. Even better, just skip the section you’re stuck on, leaving a note like COME BACK TO THIS LATER, and write some content you’re more excited about. Whatever you do, just keep flexing that writing muscle. If you stop, you may never get started again.
If you just can’t write at all anymore, shift your mindset from writer to reader. Pick up a book from an author you admire and pay close attention to their writing style as you peruse the content. Or start reading a book that has similar themes to the one you’re working on. Whatever can ignite the spark that helps you jump into writing again.
You know who understands your pain? Other writers. Every author has hit a brick wall during the creative process, so you can find someone to commiserate with through online forums or local writing clubs. Even better, fellow writers may have some helpful advice to help you push through the ennui. You might even get a new accountability partner or motivation buddy from the relationships you form this way!
If you’re struggling to write, maybe you need to switch from written communication to verbal conversation. Meet a coworker for lunch to talk through where you are in the writing process and what you’re trying to accomplish. Call a family member to describe the challenge you’ve encountered. Invite a friend over to discuss your project. Sometimes, you may feel stuck when looking at words on a page, but when you engage in a casual, back-and-forth conversation with someone you trust, it can give you the language you’ve been searching for all along.
This is NOT an invitation to doomscroll. Set an intention and focus your online exploration accordingly. For example, if you’re writing nonfiction, do some research on your subject matter. If you’re working on an epic fantasy, read some blog posts by other fantasy writers. Review articles on sharpening your writing skills, incorporating sensory details, or enhancing character development. Whatever makes sense based on what’s currently getting you tripped up.
Having a dedicated writing space can signal to your brain that it’s time to buckle down and write. But sometimes, the familiarity can feel suffocating for your creativity. That’s when it’s time to mix it up by going somewhere new—a different coffee shop, a library you’ve never visited before, even a beloved hiking trail. Seeing and experiencing something different can stimulate your brain in a new way and give it the fuel it needs to power through the writer’s block.
Yep, you read that right. Have you ever woken up with a fully formed plan in your head, as if your brain developed it while you were asleep? At the very least, you’ve probably had some vivid dreams. Whatever the case, there’s something to be said for “sleeping on it.” You may be surprised by the fresh insights you have when you open your eyes and your laptop (or notebook) again.
Writer’s block usually stems from fear of failure, unreasonable commitment to perfectionism, or good old-fashioned procrastination. Don’t let these distractions keep you from your goals. Remind yourself why you began writing in the first place. Imagine how amazing it will feel when you finally finish your draft. Give yourself some grace—no one’s manuscript is perfect right out of the gate. And that’s what editing is for—later once the rough draft is done. With a little bit of self-love and sheer determination, you can bust through the unproductive thoughts that are holding you back and find a new burst of motivation.
If all else fails, and you’re just not enjoying yourself, then go ahead and take a break. Writing is supposed to be fun, not a chore on your to-do list. Try again tomorrow when you’re in a better headspace!
Still battling some major writer’s block? Don’t worry—you don’t have to fight it alone. Visit the Ballast Books website to find the perfect author coach (aka accountability partner, developmental editor, and relentless cheerleader).