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Overcoming Writer’s Block: A Personalized Guide from Me to You
Ah, writer’s block. The dreaded, elusive infrastructure of the writing process, the condition that can doom even seasoned scribblers to bouts of inert fumbling like an infant trying to use a doorknob. No matter what you’re writing – from novel to blog post to doctoral dissertation of tortuous whatnot – it seems as if the blank page towers over you like the proverbial wall. Well, cheer up. Everyone’s been there, at some point in their writing journey, and there is much you can do to advance past the barricade.
Embrace the Pause
And, first of all, give yourself permission to stop for a while. Sometimes, the more you struggle against the block, the more unstoppable a block can become. I’ve found that switching from writing to other activities, such as going for a short walk, or meditating, or engaging in another hobby, can help renew my mind and restore inspiration.
Set Achievable Goals
It’s easy to feel discouraged at the thought of all the work that is ahead of you. One of the most valuable ways to begin is to think in pieces: what do I need to get done this week? Set the timer for 10-15 minutes and just write whatever comes to mind. Don’t judge your writing; don’t tell yourself that it needs to be good, only that you will immediately…
