Writer’s block, the inability to be able to focus on writing and move forward with a project, can be an incredibly frustrating problem to face. However, it is also quite common. In fact, 70% of people experience writer’s block occasionally while 24% of people struggle with it often. If you are going through a bout of writer’s block, here are some tips for solving it.
1. Try the Pomodoro Technique
It’s true that different people prefer to write in different ways. Some can labor for hours while others work in small sprints. However, the Pomodoro Technique is based on research that suggests people are most efficient when working in intense 25-minute intervals. Try setting a timer for 25 minutes and cranking out what you can write.
2. Read
Reading a book may sound like a weird tactic for addressing writer’s block, but it can help reduce your stress while also perhaps providing some inspiration. Different books provide glimpses of different writing styles and character development which can help motivate you to resume writing on your own.
3. Shift Your Environment
Some people do well when functioning in the exact same environment for their writing. However, if you get a bout of writer’s block, a useful solution for many people is to shake things up. For many people, taking your notepad or laptop to a beautiful outside location may help renew inspiration. For others, being around people like going to a local coffee shop or coworking space could help.
4. Try a Writing Prompt
Perhaps the reason you are struggling with writer’s block is your focus on the topic at hand. Instead, find a writer’s prompt online and simply write for 15 minutes about a random topic unrelated to your book. This can often help you to get back in the habit of writing without overthinking your content. Writing prompts have been quite helpful for many people who feel stuck.
5. Exercise
This is another item that you may be a bit surprised to see on this list. However, exercise has major benefits not only for your body but also for your mind. Endorphins you get from exercise can translate to added energy. Exercise also improves your mood, gives you more clarity, and enables you to focus more. Going for a walk, a short run, or doing some aerobics at home could all be the solution you need.
6. Focus on Stress Relief
Many people have writer’s block due to stress or simply having too much on their minds. Thus, a good way to address it can be to work on relieving stress. Things like yoga, meditation, and guided breathing are all excellent ways to help remove intrusive thoughts from your mind while reducing your stress. If you have an affinity for one of these practices, try it out the next time you have writer’s block.
While writer’s block is something many people experience, it doesn’t have to prevent you from writing your book. Try these six tips to be able to focus and get back to work on your project.
