Oct 02 2008
Writer’s Block - How do you beat it?
Almost all writers have experienced writer’s block in some form or fashion, and we’re all very used to the frustration that accompanies this phenomenon. For those of you lucky enough to have never experienced this, writer’s block is defined as a mental condition that results in a temporary loss of the ability to continue a piece of writing or begin a piece of writing due to a lack of creativity, ideas, or will. Sometimes writer’s block is a temporary thing that can be resolved by simply waiting for a bit of inspiration. Other times, it’s much, much more serious and can hamper the development of a creative process.
Defeating writer’s block can be harder than downing a 40-man raid boss, and it definitely takes more creativity. My first step always is to take a break and not try to force the issue. I go off and do something that is mind-numbing such as chopping celery or playing a few rounds of Chuzzle. Repetative action soothes me and allows my brain to rest. I can usually go back to writing after taking a short break.
If that does not work, I resort to more serious measures. Try either changing the space in which you write or changing the medium in which you write. So, if you always write on paper, try typing. If you type, try getting out the old pen and notebook. If that doesn’t work, move. If you always work at home on your computer, pick up and head to a bookstore, a coffee shop, or the library. If you always work at a bookstore, head to the park or a cemetery.
These are just a few steps I take to keep writing. I encounter writer’s block fairly frequently probably due to the massive amounts of text I have to create daily. I’ll post more tips at a later date!
Very good points. I find that with poetry, I do experience writer’s block - and poetry is my passion. However when writing articles, essays or even short stories, I never experience writer’s block. I guess it’s the creative side that is fleeting.
Jo
http://apoetsview.today.com
Another way to coax your mind into being creative is to do physical activity, especially something that requires mental use as well. This can be as simple as playing your Wii for a couple hours, or a game of something like tennis or badminton. Though just going for a jog can help.