Are you suffering from a mild bout of Writer’s Block? If so, worry no more, because Guides is here to help.
We all get it from time to time: sitting there in front of the computer staring blankly at what will one day be Chapter 12 of our novel. But with the best will in the world, the words just won’t come. It’s a veritable nightmare. However, you must not give up, and to prevent Writer’s Block, try some of these tips:
1. Take a break
It may sound a bit lazy, but sometimes standing up and walking away from your computer is the best thing to do. Go and have a coffee or a bite to eat. You’d be surprised what a rested mind can do.
2. Brainstorm
What is your subject matter? Write it in the middle of a page and scribble down the first words that come to your mind. Your subconscious may have a surprise for you.
3. Change your scenery
Try packing up your laptop and going somewhere else. Whether you prefer private or busy places doesn’t matter, find somewhere comfortable.
4. Related words
Pick a word of relevance, and then aggressively write down every associated word you can think of. Take “Car” as an example: write road, wheel, driver, traffic light, engine, petrol, and so on. It could kick-start a creative burst.
5. Look out of the window
No, it’s not lazy – show this article to your boss if they don’t believe you. Sometimes the inspiration you need is on your doorstep. Are you a journalist looking for a good story? Well why don’t you go and talk to the taxi driver parked outside?
6. Talk to someone
There’s no shame in Writer’s Block, and if you’re up against it, why not simply tell a friend or colleague? They may have a couple of good suggestions for you.
7. Keep your notebook close
You’d be amazed at how often you can be in bed ready to go to sleep when a top-notch metaphor or delicious oxymoron pops into your head. Keep a notebook by your bed and jot it all down.
8. Make a list
If you’re struggling with creative writing, make a list of 10 or 20 creative works that have inspired you or touched you in some way. It’s not plagiarism, it’s getting your mind attuned.
9. Re-read it all
If your writing is slowing down, give it a rest for a few hours, or even a few days. Go back and read it from the start, but try to read it as if you didn’t write it. You will be amazed at how that can help.
10. Err
As a result of sudden writer's block, there is no number 10.
