6 Proven Methods For Overcoming Writer’s Block

Writing can be tough, but it doesn’t need to be impossible.

The dreaded blank page.

Is there anything worse?

Well, being on fire while also being attacked by wolves. I imagine that could be worse. But the blank page comes in at a close second.

It’s going to be okay. We’ve all been there. Here are six proven tips my writer friends and I use to successfully get past writer’s block.

Don’t wait for the right time

Many people put off writing until they feel like it’s the right time — whatever that means. The trouble is that it’s fairly common to never reach that “right time” moment. There’s always a reason to put it off just a little while longer.

Instead, get the momentum flowing by sitting down and writing, whether ready or not. It may be the roughest of all rough drafts, but that’s still better than a blank page. Don’t worry if you haven’t finished your research. You can always incorporate your research and other details after you’ve pushed out that first rough draft or two.

Don’t over-prepare

Many writers start with an outline. These can be incredibly helpful in keeping your thoughts on track. Just the same, there’s no law that says you can’t start writing before you know everything that you intend to say. The writing process is creative and interactive. Your ideas will develop as you write, and you can always go back and edit later.

Write in short, quick shifts if you’d like

Does your schedule not allow for long blocks of uninterrupted time to write? Does your attention wander too much over an extended period? You might want to try working in short bursts of time spread out over the day. By the end of the day, you may find your productivity hasn’t been hurt, and you’re actually writing more than you intended for that day.

Scheduling your writing time like work

Are you still feeling stuck? Don’t treat writing like it’s an optional activity — not if you intend to be a professional writer. Approach your writing like any other job — something that can’t be postponed. Put it on your schedule. Make sure housemates or relatives understand you are working.

Designate a work area that is dedicated solely to writing. Treat it like an office.

Find a conversation

Don’t look at writing as a solo activity. If you’re stuck, seek an outside perspective. Find a friend — whether a fellow writer or not — and have a conversation about your work. Some intense dialogue about what you’re trying to accomplish could be the very thing you need to return to your writing with a fresh attitude and renewed energy. Depending on the conversation, you may even learn something new you can use or get some new ideas on approaching your topic.

Mix it up to stay fresh

Everyone gets tired and worn out. This can have an impact on your writing, which will then result in low quality work. If you feel fatigued, change the time of the day you write. For example, If writing late into the night is wearing you out, try waking up early and getting in an hour or two before breakfast time. If working from home isn’t working, try the library or local coffee shop (hey, coffee shops writing is a cliche for a reason).

Writing can be challenging at times, but a lot of what makes it challenging is how you approach it. I know a lot of writers and have been one myself for quite a while now. Try these simple, proven strategies and see where you end up.

Keep writing!

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