Writer’s block is a real thing. It doesn’t happen to me often, but when it does it’s usually because I’m sitting at my computer, trying too hard.
Here’s what I do to combat that:
Have a plan.
When I have a general idea of what I’m writing about before I sit down at my computer, I’m more likely to get words down on the page.
Skip to the good part.
When I hit a roadblock, one that feels like I’m pushing against a brick wall, I sometimes skip ahead to a scene that’s easier to write. I’ll highlight the difficult section and write “add something else here!” and move on. It’s a waste of time to force it when I could come back to it later when I do have a plan.
Do something mindless.
Doing mindless tasks always frees up my mind to be creative. I’m sure you’ve all heard this before. If you fold laundry, wash the dishes, take a shower or a drive, great ideas will come. That always works for me. The monotony of everyday tasks encourages my mind to wander. Scenes eventually take shape and then I get back to work.
Focus on something inspiring.
There are certain things that inspire my creativity. Bright colors and shapes in fairy tale settings are one of them. I write positive, chase your dreams, happy ending books for kids so it makes sense, I guess. Inspiring triggers are different for every writer but they work the same for all of us. Walking away from the scene that’s stumping me and surrounding myself with images and sounds that encourage my creative, problem-solving mind, always works.
Wondering what images are inspiring me today?
These four bright walls! Not only are they pretty to look at, but my imagination jumps to life when I stare at them for a while. I imaging the flowers turning. I wonder what’s in between the petals. I wonder if the diamond-shaped panels open. And what they lead to. See what I mean? Our writer’s brains don’t have to stay blocked for long. Sometimes all it takes is staring at a few pretty walls—instead of banging your head against a brick one!
I hope these tips help you the next time you’re struggling to write a scene—or solve a problem. You never know! Thanks for checking out this post. As always, I appreciate it!
BTW, as you can see, I published this post on the very last day of May… just under the wire. I promised myself, I would write four blog posts each month this year like I used to when this blog was new. It’s not always easy keeping to this schedule but I’m committed to NOT breaking this promise to myself. Keeping myself accountable on things like this has had a ripple effect over the last few months. I tend to follow through on other things better too now. So, my strategy is working! But what about you? You should try it too! What promise to yourself are you going to keep?
Just something to think about…until next time!
