Writing can be a difficult and trying task even for the most seasoned of writers. At some point or another it’s inevitable that you’ll “hit the wall” and suffer from the dreaded curse of writer’s block. However, there’s no reason that your bout with writer’s block should spell disaster because there are some strategies that can help you push past that wall and allow those creative juices to start flowing freely again. Here’s some things to help get you started.

1) Don’t Stress It

The first strategy is not to let writers block stress you out. Yes, your deadline may be quickly approaching, but stressing and panicking about it certainly won’t help. In fact, if you let the stress consume you then you’ll find it even harder to push past this wall and get back to writing. Stress only serves to make the mental brick wall even harder to break through, so try to destress as best you can.

2) Walk Away from the Task

One of the best tips that can be offered for those suffering from writer’s block is to walk away from the task/project. Literally, you need to leave your desk and go do something else. The idea is that you need to get your mind off writing completely. You could go do some chores, grab a bite to eat, call a friend, watch a little TV, anything that allows your mind to take a break from writing. It’s amazing how helpful clearing your head can be. Getting some fresh air and enjoying beautiful scenery is also a great way to rejuvenate the soul and your mind.

3) Squeeze in a Workout

Another effective technique is to workout. While you may think this sounds foolish because you shouldn’t be wasting your time on a workout, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Once you start to work out, your mind follows suit and is able to function better and in a more creative way.

As for what kind of workout is best, that’s really up to you. You can take on something very physical like a run or a bike ride, lifting weights, a cardio class, or you can focus more on quieting and calming your body through Yoga or Pilates.

4) Change Locations

Sometimes, your writing location can be the problem. Maybe there are distractions or your desk area isn’t very inspiring. Perhaps, your work station is just uncomfortable. Consider other areas in your home where you could write and possibly be more productive. Ideally, you want to pick a spot that is quiet and where there aren’t any other people to distract you. The television blaring in the background isn’t usually a great idea either. For many people, a room with a view is often quite inspiring. If possible, try to set up your desk near a window so you can feel as though you’re part of nature in some small sense. It usually creates a very calming environment.

5) Don’t Procrastinate

We are all guilty of procrastinating at some point. Unfortunately, the problem with procrastinating is that it puts a whole lot of pressure and stress on you at the last minute. Rather than leaving your writing until the very last minute or the end of the day, try to get a little accomplished each day leading up to your deadline.

As far as what time of day to do your writing, most people would agree they tend to be more productive, focused, and creative first thing in the morning. Not only will the words typically flow smoother at this time of day, you’ll also get the task done earlier in the day which allows for a relaxing evening.

6) Create a Flowchart of Ideas

Sometimes, writer’s block is due to the fact that you just don’t know what to write or what direction to take with your story/article. In this case, you will probably find it helpful to create a flowchart of ideas. You can jot down all the points you wish to cover in your story, which will start to give it shape. From there, it’s almost as though you’ll be filling in the blanks, just finding information and additional content to support those key ideas.

7) Keep it to One Project at a Time

When it comes to the causes associated with writer’s block, juggling too many projects at once can certainly be a big factor. Rather than tackling a number of stories all at one time, stick to just one and finish it before moving on to the next. It gets rather difficult to keep the facts straight, ideas flowing, and creativity on point for too many topics at one time. This can lead to burnout, stories that don’t seem to flow well, and have too many research or grammatical errors.

You Aren’t Alone

While writer’s block can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you have a deadline that you have to meet, it’s important not to be too hard on yourself. Everyone suffers from it at one time or another. So, rather than wallow in the pity and frustration of writer’s block, it’s best to tackle the issue head on and use these techniques that will help you push beyond the wall. Are you ready to get past your writer’s block?

Sarah Robinson

Sarah is a passionate writer and advocate for donating stories to the less fortunate. She currently works for BookRazor.com and enjoys reading her favourite novels in her free time. She has a loving and very supportive family and enjoys visiting book signing events whenever she can.