8 Tried and True Ways to Get Over Writer’s Block

Writer’s block—those two dreaded words that can turn even the most seasoned writer’s day upside down. Whether you’re working on a novel, a blog post, or even a simple email, the inability to translate your thoughts into words can feel frustrating and demotivating. But don’t worry! Writer’s block is something every writer encounters, and with a few tried and true creative strategies, you can break through that wall and get back to doing what you love.

Change Your Environment

Sometimes, all it takes to shake off writer’s block is a change of scenery. If you’ve been sitting at the same desk for hours, try moving to a different room, a coffee shop, or a park. A new environment can offer fresh perspectives, stimulate your senses, and inspire new ideas. Even rearranging your current workspace or sitting by a window can make a big difference.

Freewriting

When the words won’t flow, freewriting is an excellent way to unblock your mind. Set a timer for 10-15 minutes and write continuously without worrying about grammar, structure, or whether the content even makes sense. The key is to keep your hand moving and allow your subconscious thoughts to take over. Freewriting often uncovers hidden ideas and can help you find new angles to approach your writing.

Talk it Out

If you’re stuck, try discussing your writing project with a friend, colleague, or even a voice memo app. Verbalizing your thoughts can help clarify what you’re trying to say, and your conversation partner might offer valuable insights or ask questions that spark new ideas. Sometimes, just hearing yourself speak can untangle the mental knots blocking your progress.

Write by Hand

In today’s digital age, we often default to typing on keyboards. But there’s something about the tactile experience of writing by hand, and the lack of distractions, that can help get ideas flowing. Grab a notebook and pen and start jotting down thoughts, outlines, or even doodles. The slower pace of handwriting allows you to think more deliberately, often leading to deeper connections and fresh inspiration.

Take a Break

Yes, sometimes the best way to deal with writer’s block is to step away from the work altogether. Engage in a different activity like taking a walk, doing some yoga, cooking, or listening to music. These activities allow your mind to wander and reset, often leading to a breakthrough when you least expect it. Stepping away from your writing gives your brain time to process ideas in the background.

Set Smaller Goals

Writer’s block can feel overwhelming when you’re staring at a large, daunting task. Try to break your writing into smaller, more manageable chunks. Instead of aiming to complete an entire chapter or article, focus on writing a single paragraph or even a sentence. Setting smaller goals makes the task seem less intimidating, and each small achievement will build momentum.

Change the Medium

If you’re stuck writing in one format, try switching things up. For example, if you’re working on a novel, experiment with poetry or journal writing for a while. If you’re crafting a blog post, consider writing a fictional scene. Changing the medium allows your brain to approach writing from a new angle, and that shift can help reignite your creativity.

Incorporate a Writing Prompt

When you’re staring at a blank page, sometimes you just need a little push to get started. Try using a writing prompt to kickstart your creativity. Prompts can be as simple as “Write about the sound of rain” or as specific as “Describe a childhood memory that still makes you smile.” There are countless prompt resources online, or you can create your own based on your current project. Let the prompt guide you into writing, even if it’s unrelated to what you’re working on—it might just lead you back to your original idea with fresh energy.

Writer’s block is frustrating, but it’s not insurmountable. By incorporating one (or several) of these unique strategies, you can break through the block and get back into the flow of writing. Remember, creativity isn’t always a straight line—sometimes, a little detour is exactly what you need to find your way back to the words.