How to Get Rid of Writer's Block

You've been staring at your computer screen for hours. You know that fast-paced feature article or short story is there, somewhere, just waiting to come out. If only you could write something - anything! All writers know about writer's block. But you needn't let writer's block ruin your writing aspirations. Move those annoying, invisible writing obstacles out of the way.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Typewriter Paper
• Incense
• Journals
• Colored Ink Pens
• Pencils Or Pens
• Fountain Pens
• Aromatherapy Candles
• Writing Papers

1. Choose a subject for your piece that gives you a surge of energy. Are your emotions invested in this project? If not, look for a new subject or a fresh idea. A less-than-interesting topic will make the best of writers feel blocked.

2. Free associate. Sometimes a writer's tendency toward perfectionism stops him dead cold in his tracks. Give yourself 15 minutes to be totally free of your "inner critic." Set a timer and start typing - write whatever pops into your head, even if it is total gibberish, a shopping list, words that rhyme - whatever. The idea is to get your creative juices flowing. Some writers do this exercise every day before they begin writing.

3. Read the work of your favorite writer. There is nothing like inspired, well-composed prose to make you want to pick up a pen (or put your fingers on a keyboard).

4. Think of your project as a pizza - eat one piece at a time. It is overwhelming for any writer to see a big project as a "whole" immediately. Start with one small section. When you finish that piece, you will feel encouraged to move on to the next.

5. Exercise. Go for a brisk walk around the block, do yoga, ride your bike or use your treadmill whenever you feel blocked with your writing. Physical activity increases the blood flow to the brain and releases nervous tension.

Tips & Warnings

• When you do complete a writing goal, be sure to reward yourself. Go to that new movie you've been wanting to see, eat a chocolate chip cookie or splurge on a weekend getaway. Acknowledge that you were able to move the mental obstacles and create. Your reward will energize you for your next project.
• Sometimes, the best way to beat writer's block is to write. A number of online communities offer the opportunity to write about an unrelated subject, which can help you take your mind off the writer's block.
• Make sure your work area is ergonomically healthy and well-lit. Choose a chair that supports your spine properly. Physical comfort will encourage productive writing.

[ashlibuts]

on 10/21/2009 O my gosh this article helped me so much because im new to writing songs and playing music and i never new how frustrating it could be to have writers block but i think that your emotions and personality can also give you insperation to write a song! But THANK YOU eHow! because u really helped me!

[aglobalbridge]

on 8/7/2009 Excellent article, with good solutions! Thanks for the hints.

[BCPASSIONS]

on 6/5/2009 This a very good article with great tips!!

[writer1076]

on 12/23/2007 WOW! I have been having writers block and this actually works!

on 8/8/2006 I always keep music playing to help me relax. I also just write as I go. I don't really think of what I'm writing, and even if it does get a little off topic, who cares? I call it casual writing.