If you are a writer like me then I am sure you must have faced writer's block and have been looking for ways to overcome it.
How to overcome writer's block?
Before we set about sharing some tried and tested tips on how to get through writer's block, let's look into what it actually is.
What is Writer's Block?
A writer's block, as the name suggests, is a phenomenon where the writer's writing capacity e a pause. No matter what, when a writer is unable to produce any content, it is referred to as writer's block.
The duration of this block varies from person to person. If not tackled in time, this could result in extremely low productivity and delayed deadlines.
Causes of writer's block
Now, since writer's block isn't a scientific concept, there are merely theories of what causes it. There are many reasons for it, here are a few that we think are the most common ones.
1. Personal problems
You may be facing a personal issue, which could be family or friends. If there is something that is bothering you in your personal life, it will surely impact your work.
2. Overworked:
This is something that happens to almost all newbies who commit far too much work. Having loads of work on your agenda can create a mental block for you where your brain completely shuts down, thus resulting in writer's block.
3. High distraction
Amidst many things that the Covid-19 had taught us, a very important lesson is that of home offices. This is something all freelancers would agree to, working from home is full of distractions. There is your family, pets, mobile phone and the TV, all of these hinder productivity greatly.
4. Unsatisfactory rewards
This could be a monetary reward or the non-monetary one as well. Either you are underpaid or are undervalued, these would result in lower motivation which will then create writer's block.
5. Fear and Self-doubt
Your biggest enemy is fear. If you are a person who has a habit of second-guessing yourself, then your fear can truly affect your creativity. If you are constantly doubting your work, you are surely entering writer's block.
How to Overcome Writer's block
Getting rid of writer's block can be challenging. However, it is not impossible. These tips and tricks will definitely help you overcome writer's block.
1. Exercise
Exercising does wonders for your mind and body. It will help release any stress build-up and increase your focus. Now, let's be honest, you can never come up with anything new if your mind is fogged and you have loads of pressure. With exercise, you can truly get rid of writer's block.
2. Read
Since writing is part of the literary world, reading an array of books will help you realign with your creative side. Also, it will rekindle the spark of writing with you and will give you ideas of different writing styles as well.
Here are a few of our favorite books that will surely answer the question of how to overcome writer's block. When choosing to read, make sure you opt for different genres. A multitude of genres helps you get in touch with the creativity in you.
3. Change tasks
Often at times being stuck with similar tasks make them boring. If that is the case with you, try changing tasks. Write on something else, or do some organizing. Changing tasks helps you focus on something else besides your task at hand and helps get rid of writer's block.
4. Seek inspiration
The world is full of inspiration. A few good options of seeking inspiration is to read books, review blogs and the work of other writers, listen to podcasts or go visit a mentor. Either way, make sure to open your mind and let the inspiration enter you.
5. Meditate
Whenever you feel yourself losing amidst the fast-paced world, put yourself to pause with meditation. Meditation helps you relax and realign. It helps clear your mind and organize thoughts. It also helps nurture your creative side. All of this, in return, helps you overcome writer's block.
6. Change work location
If you have been working on a project in the same place for a long time, try changing places. Go to a cafe or a library and see how it works for you. Often at times, all you need is a change of scenery to get that creative juice flowing. changing location will surely answer your question as to how to overcome writer's block.
Writing is truly an art, and there is no rushing art. But how to overcome writer's block? Make sure to reward yourself every now and then. Also, never stop seeking inspiration and always take a break.
We would love to hear from you. How do you overcome writer's block? Let us know in the comments how these tips and tricks helped you get rid of writer's block.