Need Help Beating "The Block"?
Helpful tips and tricks to help writers overcome writer's block.
Writer's block Isn't only frustrating but extremely disheartening. For a writer that enjoys her craft, I have to say that at times it has made me question my career choice. It happens to the best as well as the worst of us, and no one truly knows the cause of it. Some psychologists think that writer's block is caused by anxiety or the lack of emotional fuel. Which basically means if you aren't emotionally connected to the topic then your creative flow could diminish.
We may not know what causes this nuisance to occur, but there are some proactive steps that writers can take to help conquer the fowl beast.
Drop the Act
One of the biggest culprits to writer's block is perfectionism. I have, to be honest with myself as well as my readers when I say that I have a thing for being "perfect." I mean...ok...I understand that perfection doesn't truly exist, at least not within humanity. But that doesn't stop me from wanting to deliver the best content to my readers. This strong desire can act as a two-edged sword. Yes, this mindset does motivate me to provide the best content that I can possibly create but at what cost? I'll tell you, writer's block. The constant desire to produce perfect material can cause any writer to become anxious and emotionally dissonant from their work. As a writer, it's important to deliver great content that your readers can connect with but it's also good to remind yourself not to take the project too seriously and that it's okay to have fun with it.
Get the Ball Rolling
Sometimes you just need to get your feet wet. Make those creative juices flow and get that pen (or fingers) movin'. The Center for Writing Studies has equipped authors with the skills they need to run, jump and dodge all the trials and tribulations that come with "the block." The author states that note-taking and brainstorming can be effective tools to ward off the enemy. "Jot down ideas and phrases as they occur to you. Free yourself from paragraphs and sentences for the moment--use flow charts, arrows, boxes, outlines, even pictures. Right now, you are worried about getting things down before you forget them." This step can be done together or in two separate parts. The idea is to exercise that creative muscle and give your brain the nudge it needs to start making magic again.
Stop Playing the Waiting Game
Don't wait for inspiration because it is fleeting. Instead be proactive. Doing things like taking long walks, meditating, or participating in acts of creative expression can also help writers regain their "mojo." Sometimes fresh air and a change of scenery can reshape a creator's outlook and provide them with the inspiration they're seeking.
If you or someone you know is suffering from "the block" remind them that it's okay. It's completely normal, and it happens to even the greatest of writers. Take them out for a latte or invite them along on one of your daily walks. They could be overworked, overstressed or be taking their work a little too seriously. Read Article on TheOdyssey
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