Writer’s block is a familiar obstacle that seems to grow the more we focus on it. We know we must write, so we sit down at our desk, stare at our screens, and will ourselves to write something. Anything. Still, no words appear. The longer we sit there, frustrated that we’re not writing, the more likely it becomes that we will not write at all.
Even strong writers need strategies to cope with writer’s block and be productive. Here are 15 tips to overcome writer’s block and still create content you’d proudly show your colleagues. Not every tip will work for every writer, but something here will work probably for you.
“Creativity is a habit, and the best creativity is a result of good work habits.” - Twyla Tharp
Some writers may think Tharp’s approach is counterintuitive because they believe creativity is innate and unpredictable. But waiting for inspiration can be a formula for a constant battle with writer’s block. Try approaching writing as a set part of your routine: schedule time to write and write at that time, even if you’re not inspired by your words. Whether your schedule includes writing daily or every weekend, it’s important to stick to it.
The worst way to combat insomnia is to stay in bed and think about falling asleep. Fighting writer’s block is similar to fighting insomnia. Staring at a blank page or screen and hoping words appear won’t work. One way to break out of this mental paralysis is to talk to a friend–real or imaginary. As you talk, write down everything you say. Once on paper, that conversation may make a decent first draft.
To avoid or overcome writer’s block, think about what time of day you find it easiest to be creative. For many people, creative tasks are easiest in the morning when it’s quiet and emails aren’t piling up. Others prefer writing late at night. Plan to write when you’re naturally most creative, whether it’s at 6 AM or 10 PM.
Distractions can reduce your focus, interrupt your flow, or keep you from starting a project. Minimize distractions when you write. Try unplugging from digital distractions by turning off your smartphone and internet while you write. Remove distractions from your work area by cleaning your desk; a clean desk can improve calm and focus. Use time-blocking to schedule time for writing. Ask co-workers and family members to respect that time the way they’d respect your unavailability in a meeting or a webinar. Schedule chunks of at least three uninterrupted hours for writing.
You don’t have to write a piece in the order it will be read. For example, people often struggle with writing introductions. If you’re having a hard time writing a given section, work on another part and come back later. Writing some part of the piece will be more successful overall than staying with an idea that’s not yet ready. Writing out of order might even help you write the perfect introduction at the end, because you’ll have a better idea of how you’ve organized your piece.