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Any new writer coming into the fold hears about writer’s block before they even get to learn the golden rules of the craft. It also has a particularly charming ring to it when described by big writers.
But is writer’s block an actual thing or just another figment of the unbelievably brilliant minds of writers?
Non-writers have answered this question by saying that gardeners don’t have gardener’s block, which implies that the hindrance experienced by writers is more an issue of a blameworthy weakness of will, rather than an extrinsic cause they are helpless against. However, this claim falters when the assumptions are probed. It operates on the assumption that mental and physical labour are equal in nature and process.
Writing as a craft requires a writer to extend themselves beyond simply documenting information – a typist could easily do that. Rather, writers have a neural need to be surprised by their work. And as it happens every now and then, this mental state locks the writer out for reasons just as inexplicable as the answers to the oft-asked question of “where do you get your ideas from?”
So, how can you overcome writer’s block and write with greater frequency? Let’s explore them in detail:
- Sustain the Mental Buzz
As explained earlier, the writing process is hugely reliant on a distinct writ of mind different from the type that typifies daily life and used in carrying out other tasks. As a writer said, “writing is a socially acceptable form of schizophrenia.” A writer’s task is then better served by remaining fired-up by giving their brain a special diet of books, idea generation, contemplation, and micro-writing. These activities help the writer to stay active by keeping the mind in a state of perpetual preparation.
So, pick a book and a journal. Read as deeply as you can, ask questions and annotate your thoughts in the journal as the reading goes on. When this is done long enough, you will discover that you don’t have to confront the loneliness and horror of a blank page. Rather, you’ll just edit.
- Take A Walk
There are a lot of reasons people take a walk which ranges from exercise to enjoying nature. However, walking is just as effective for overcoming writer’s block.
Body movement is a reverse way to get the mind in an energised state. The optimal mental state for writing is characterized by motion. This is why peering out the window and looking at people and vehicles pass by helps stimulate ideas. It is no surprise them, that walking is a good way to get ideas overflowing through the act of movement and feel-good hormones called endorphins.
- Try A New Environment
If you work from home or use a work station, it helps to change routine by saying ‘hi’ to that friend you’ve long promised to visit. A sense of novelty lights up the brain, and gets it active for work in the same way reading or walking does. Plus, you get to move around by walking or taking a cab, which offer extra help in breaking the writer’s block.
In conclusion, writer’s block is a very normal occurrence that comes with the territory of writing, but a little creativity in daily routines work wonders to get the writing floodgates open again.
Need help writing that book, essay, or cover letter? Send us a message at hello@tweakmycontent.com and we’ll work with you to create magic!