Writer's Block? Conquer it using these 11 Effective Strategies

You started your year determined to meet your 2024 writing goals. In January, the ideas gushed out of you as fast as a burst water pipe. In February, you wished you could type as rapidly as your brain spat out the words. Then comes March … er … uhm, the flow has slowed considerably. Then nothing; the cursor's blinking, "I'm waiting," it seems to say accusingly.

Writer's block - a demotivated male writer with head on desk, staring at laptop screen — Writer's block got you?

Every writer knows the struggle of staring at a blank page, waiting for inspiration to strike. Writer's block can be frustrating and demotivating, but it's a common hurdle you can overcome.

Conquering Writer's Block

Try these tips to help you get past writer's block and get back to writing.

Take a break
Change your routine
Change your environment
Set realistic goals
Use writing prompts
Write freely
Read for inspiration
Chat with other writers
Practice mindfulness
Seek feedback
Engage in the comments

1. Take a break

I know, I know, everyone says 'take a break', but trust me stepping away from that blinking cursor for a short while does work.

A study on the analysis of writer's block, found that the most common causes described by respondents were physiological and motivational. Writers stated that one of the most useful strategies for overcoming writer's block was to take a break from writing.

Not sure what to do in this "break"? Try engaging in a different creative activity or do some stretching exercises. Physical activity can improve your mental clarity and focus. I find that a refreshing beach walk or pottering in the kitchen works for me.

Giving your mind a break from your writing project helps refresh your creativity and perspective.

Take a break: Female writer dancing on bed while listening to music. — Try a different creative or physical activity.

2. Change your routine

If it's your habit to write in the mornings, try writing in the afternoon or evening instead. Switch it up for a week or two and see what happens. Sometimes a simple switch in routine can positively influence your creative processes.

3. Change your environment

A change of scenery can do wonders for your creativity. Try writing in a different location, such as a coffee shop, park, library, or even a friend's patio. A new environment can stimulate your brain and inspire new ideas.

New environment: A male writer sitting on a park bench, writing on laptop, coffee in hand and his dog sitting next to him. — A combination of a walk and a change of environment can work wonders.

4. Set realistic goals

Break your writing task into smaller, manageable goals. Set a timer for 20-30 minutes and focus on writing without interruptions. Celebrate small victories to stay motivated.

5. Try writing prompts

Writing prompts can help jumpstart your creativity. Use prompts to write about a different topic or explore a new genre. You might discover a new story idea or writing style.

6. Write freely

Don't worry about writing perfectly. Permit yourself to write whatever comes to mind. The goal is to get words on the page, even if they're not perfect. You can always revise and edit later.

Perfection: An old typewriter with a quote by Margaret Atwood on the paper in the reel. — Write first, edit later.

7. Read for inspiration

Reading books, articles, or poems by writers you admire can spark new ideas and help you see things from a different perspective. Pay attention to the writing style, structure, and themes in the works you read. Read content in your genre, or explore something completely different.

8. Talk to other writers

Join a writing group or connect with other writers online. Sharing your struggles and successes with fellow writers can provide encouragement and new insights.

9. Practice mindfulness

Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing, can help calm your mind and reduce stress. A relaxed mind is more open to creative ideas. A book that helped me pick up some great breathing techniques Think Like a Monk, by Jay Shetty, is worth a read.

Mindfulness: A woman practising deep breathing. — Try some breathing techniques.

10. Seek feedback

Getting feedback on your work can provide valuable insights and help you see your writing from a different perspective. Consider joining a writing workshop or hiring a writing coach for personalized feedback.

11. Engage in the comments

Commenting is something that works for me when I scroll social media platforms. Dropping meaningful comments works particularly well for LinkedIn (where I spend most of my SM-allocated time). Reading posts that spark my interest enough to get me to drop a comment inspires me. Engaging gets the creative juices flowing again. New ideas are frequently born from the comments section of posts. Try it for yourself and see what happens.

Final Thoughts: Stay Positive

Writer's block is a common challenge that all writers face at some point, but it is a temporary setback. Yes, it can be frustrating, but don't let it stop you from writing.

Remember that every writer faces obstacles. Overcoming them makes you a stronger writer.

By trying different strategies, staying consistent, and seeking support from other writers, you can overcome writer's block and continue your writing journey. The key is to experiment and find what works for you.

Happy Writing

Shamila