Few things scare students or writers more than writer’s block. And, of course, writer’s block shows up at the worst times. There’s nothing like an impending deadline to bring on a severe case of writer’s block. Over the past couple of weeks, I’ve had two major writing projects due. I couldn’t afford to lose valuable time by simply staring at the screen. In order to avoid getting stuck while writing, I have a few tricks that I use. In today’s post, I’ll share my suggestions for how to overcome writer’s block.
There are many different ways to kick writer’s block to the curb. These are my five go to approaches when I’m stuck.
1. Get some exercise. My favorite thing to do is just walk around campus for five minutes. Some prefer jumping jacks or running in place. The goal is to get moving and then get back to writing.
2. Break out the pen and paper. Yes, go old school. There is something comforting about an analogue approach to writing. I find that even writing a few notes from a research article or just doing some free writing gets me moving. Writing long hand seems to get the mind moving in different ways from typing that can help get you back on track.
3. Work on a mindless part of writing. I often work on references for a few minutes. Getting a few references entered into my bibliographic software gives me a sense of momentum that transfers to my writing. But be careful to set a short time limit of 5-10 minutes to not let this turn into procrastination.
4. Talk with a colleague. We often think of writing as an isolated process, but there are great benefits to making writing a social activity. If you’re stuck with writer’s block, talk to a colleague for a few minutes. Even the act of explains why you are stuck can help get you going.
5. Get a snack. When I’m suffering from writer’s block, a quick pick-me-up snack hits the spot. There’s nothing a cold Coke and a Snickers candy bar can’t cure. I will often combine my exercise trick with getting a snack. Two-for-one!
It is easy to get frustrated or let writer’s block ruin your daily writing. And if you’re not able to get moving one day, it can often bleed into the next as well.
Although it is important to break out of writer’s block, try not to let it frustrate you. Every writer faces challenges that they have to work through. It is what can make successful writing feel so rewarding. Just recognize writer’s block for what it is, a moment in time that will pass.
I hope my tips for how to overcome writer’s block are helpful. I’d love to hear what strategies you like to use. Join me on Twitter @HEProfessor to continue the conversation!
