I’m stuck. I can’t think. Just like when I was in college cramming for finals and needing a distraction, I’ve eaten all of the chocolate in my home and I simply can’t think.
I have writer’s block.
You’ve been there too, right?
I keep thinking about the emails I haven’t answered, the calls that have come in, the laundry needing to be done, my small people and ALL. THE. THINGS. they need, and yes the piles of work I need to do. Yes, the same piles that REQUIRE writing.
But there comes a point when I need to find a way through.
Here are 6 ways to fight writer’s block:
Walk Away – sometimes you need a break from writing. Taking the time you need to walk away will leave you feeling refreshed and renewed. And what if (gasp!) if you give your self permission to simply walk away for the day and NOT WRITE at all today. Or tomorrow.
Read – pick up anything and start reading….a book, a magazine, your favorite websites. You will be amazed how many thoughts and emotions are stirred as you expand your mind. You may just come up with a few topics you have to write down.
Just start writing – or typing as the case may be. Let your fingers roam wildly over the keyboard and see what happens. Write about your morning, your kid’s antics, your next travel location, the friends you talk to, the news that disturbed you, the laundry you hate to do. When you re-read….look for the gems you find interesting and edit.
Do what inspires you – yoga, playing the violin, drawing, tennis, cuddling your kids. Allow the activity to take over your mind – you’ll start writing again with a clean slate from a place of calm and happiness.
Answer the question, “what do you love?” The sound of the ocean, holding your children’s hand, your favorite song, the color red, guacamole, helping others, scrapbooking, politics, reading biographies, wine-tasting, technology. Hidden among these loves are the inspiration you need to find your writing mojo again.
Take a walk. Or a shower. Listen to music. Clean the kitchen. Or your closet. Allow yourself to breathe. Do something mindless that has absolutely nothing to do with writing. You will accomplish something and that will feel good.
Good luck. (says the girl who is now getting ready to take a walk!)
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