Overcoming writer’s block

November 28, 2011 — 34 Comments

Do you ever have those days when you just have nothing to write?  You try to write but nothing comes to mind and you end up just staring at the screen blankly for what feels like hours?

I hate this feeling but it is inevitable for anyone who writes on a regular basis.

It is good to have a strategy before you find yourself in this situation.

Ten ways to overcome writer’s block:

1.  Read a book or other blogs – This always helps me when I am struggling for new ideas.

2.  Listen to music – Music is a great inspiration for me.

3.  Go for a walk – It helps to get the blood moving and you never know what you are going to see.

4.  Take a break – Don’t force yourself to write.

5.  Change your surroundings – Try moving to a different location.

6.  Have a cup of coffee - Caffeine helps stimulate your brain.

7.  Play with your kids – You can learn a lot from them.

8.  Take a nap – Rest will help refresh you.

9. Spend time brainstorming – Instead of writing think of ideas for future posts.

10. Write a post about overcoming writer’s block. :)

How do you overcome writer’s block?

Kevin Martineau

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I am the Pastor at Port Hardy Baptist Church on Northern Vancouver Island, British Columbia. I am married to my best friend and I have three beautiful daughters.

34 responses to Overcoming writer’s block

  1. I do six out of those ten things. Glad to know I’m not the only one.

  2. Good suggestions. I don’t have kids to play with, but I can always visit someone or get my mind re-directed. Thanks.

  3. For me I do 7 of those everyday because those are my daily routine, and I’m glad that I see those in here..

  4. good on Kevin, I’ve used all of these and would sum them up as just living life and letting Him lead the way.

  5. I try to think of the absurdities that happen to us during our lives. This usually helps. And sometimes causes spontaneous outbursts of laughter.

  6. Good Morning Kevin
    Great tips I do 5 out of 10, I never use to write before I found that I really like it. Sometimes I am at a loss for words
    I will try the other 5 ans see if that does help
    Great Information
    To Your Success
    Sharon

  7. I have to experience some life instead of just thinking about it (if that makes sense). That happens in the ways you describe and through prayer and praise. Good stuff, Kevin! Thanks.

  8. Steve,
    very clever in getting this article out by writing about what you are experienced at that time. Blocked…

    I find that when pushing it to the limit to read as many others blogs. This inspires every writer to pop up with so many different subjects to express their passions. Just start writing as a response and then you have create an article.

    The only thing that is difficult is when you overthink it. Making key words and all the other stuff making that every attempt to rank high on platforms.

    Hey, just write from passion and experience. The rest is not important. People will find your style and content warming. They will spread your messeages and others will start. WOW! You just went virual and I am one of those kind of people to help.

    Steve, always a pleasure and adventure visiting your location. I love your site and will be back. Thank you for all you have done for countless others in our industry. You Sir, have character and one of our great visionaries.

  9. I look around to see what I am missing. It is amazing the amount of articles that can come out of everyday experiences. Sometimes just reviewing what I have been working on recently is enough for me to create a blog post.

  10. I think what works best for me is reading and exercise. Also just stepping back, taking a break and coming back to it later with a fresh mindset.

    Great list!

  11. Hey Kevin, great idea for a post. Writer’s block definitely does creep in for anyone who attempts to regularly blog daily. For me, I always try to listen to a great audio or read part of a great book each day to ensure I’ve got ample material to create a great blog post (for me, my favorite topic is creating wealth so I try to listen to a great financial podcast each day).

  12. this is my biggest favorite: 3. Go for a walk – It helps to get the blood moving and you never know what you are going to see. although they are all great. One thing for sure trying to force it never works. I sometimes get the same thing with when I make video, so when I am inspired I do several so when that dreaded day comes I have content ready!

  13. Great tips. I hate when writers block hits. Some days we need help. Thanks.

  14. When I have writer’s block, I go out and spend time with friends :) Works for me.

  15. Sounds like good advice Kevin. I have to say I am normally not plagued by writer’s block – but about a week ago I was blindsided big time and it really caught me off guard. I got through it, but still tried to figure out what happened and I think it was because I’ve been pressuring myself to finish a new book and my mind has been so focused on that it just created a block when it came to try and think of any other subject. Not fun!

  16. I think stress is probably my biggest enemy when it comes to bringing me writers block. Or sheer burn out. Also noise pollution. My children are extremely noisy. It means I can not concentrate. And am too limited if I leave working to times they are not around me.
    Because of these circumstances I have to try and work through this.
    I am also a writer who works a lot better in my creative flow with old fashioned pen and paper. I want to grab a notepad so I can scribble ideas at all times.

  17. I like this sharing of advice..I really like it because it help a lot to me..

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