How to deal with Writer’s block – 10 Steps

Many of you have been asking for more informative posts, so today I’m going to explain what is Writer’s block and how to deal with it.

So, What is Writer’s block? And no, it isn’t a cheese.

There you go. And actually, many people have Writer’s block, almost every writer suffers from it!

It isn’t that serious or grave as it seems, it is a temporary condition, but it can make people really struggle with putting pen to paper and can’t write at all!

What causes Writer’s block?

Many things. Depression, physical illness or even a sense of failure, and the list doesn’t even end there. One of the main causes is when you put too much pressure on yourself.

Is it common?

Yes, it’s very common. Many great writers have suffered from Writer’s block, and it can be very painful.

And as writers, it is very, very frustrating to stare at a blank page!

Luckily, I’m here to help you deal with your Writer’s block and overcome it in 10 steps.

1. DON’T BE AFRAID! This another common cause of Writer’s Block – Writers are afraid of putting their ideas and opinions for everyone to see. Don’t worry yourself by thinking about what everyone else will say about your writing, just let the words flow onto paper.

2. ACKNOWLEDGE THAT IT’S OK IF YOUR WRITING ISN’T PERFECT! As writers, it takes a lot of hard work for us to read our own words and say to ourselves that it’s perfect. If you just look for perfection in your writing, trust me, you’re not going to make it past the first page. You’ll scribble it out a hundred times before giving up altogether. Instead, write first, pages and pages, then edit it all together. And don’t be your own judge, ask someone else to read it and give constructive feedback.

3. READ INSPIRING QUOTES! Okay, I know this may seem like a tiny point or like it isn’t important or relevant, but really, it helps! Read inspiring quotes online and get motivated to pick up the pen and write.

4. IT’S OKAY TO TAKE BREAKS!

I’ve mentioned this in a lot of posts. Sometimes, Writer’s Block is probably your brains way of telling you to have a break. Go for a hike, do something different like painting or baking instead of being cooped up in your writing corner. This way, when you come back, your mind will be fresh and clear and ready to write.

5. TRY WRITING IN A DIFFERENT ENVIRONMENT! This really works. Changing your environment will give you more ideas. Sitting beneath a tree in the park, or in your back garden amongst nature, or in a coffee shop, inspiration will hit any time!

6. WRITE SOMETHING ELSE! Not forever, but just to keep the creativeness flowing. Try something different instead of worrying your mind over your current piece of writing. Try keeping a diary, writing a shopping list, a letter or literally anything that comes to your mind!

7. SWITCH OFF THE INTERNET! Internet is very distracting, maybe your brain is filled with the latest YouTube videos or hilarious memes, turn off all devices and try writing on paper.

8. MAP OUT YOUR STORY! Or whatever you’re writing. Grab some paper, brainstorm, jot down ideas, outline and map it out. Don’t start writing first.

9. WRITE WHAT YOU WANT TO WRITE! A common cause for Writer’s block is when the writer feels the pressure of people’s expectations. Don’t write what you think the reader would enjoy – although this is an advice most people give. And don’t write what you think would sell, if you do, more blocks are coming your way! Write what’s been bugging you to put down on paper. What you want to write. Follow your dreams!

10. TRY WRITING PROMPTS! Here are some writing prompts to kick that block out of town!

• Write a story from a villain’s perspective
• Pick up a book and rewrite your favourite scene using different characters
• Write about gravestones that keep disappearing
• Write about a boy who can breathe underwater
• Write about your favourite childhood vacation
• Write a letter to your future self
• Write about your biggest fear (apart from writer’s block)
• Tell a tale about a boy who discovers that humanity has ten days before aliens invade the planet

You can search up more awesome writing prompts online!

Thank you for reading and do let me know down below if this post was informative enough or helpful!

Stay safe,