Beating Writer's Block

Everywhere I find writers I find them talking about how to break through writers block. At first I thought, I'm a freak, I don't get writers block. I thought maybe it was like some sneaky ailment that was hiding in the shadows waiting for the right moment to pounce. I figured I would get it someday, I just didn't think I had.

Well I had, I just didn't know it. I was stuck on a point in my book the other day that needed something more, I just didn't know what. So I went and brainstormed with a friend of mine who is interested in the story. Presto, we came up with that something that was missing. One friend or another always helps me talk it out and figure out what the story needs. When I don't have access to a friend, I take a walk, go ride my horse, or contemplate the story while in the shower (which oddly works wonders). These methods relax me and get the creative side of my mind working.

One of the best suggestions I can give to those who get writers block is to find a friend that is really interested in your story and is willing to talk about it with you. Ask what's missing, ask what it needs, ask if there are any holes or places that don't make sense, ask what they would like to see in a story like yours. You'll be amazed at how much it will actually add to your story. Have trouble finding one? Jump on Twitter, it is full of writers who are always willing to help each other. Look for writer chats, they occur pretty much daily on there. My favorite (of course) is the #WritersRoad which happens the first Monday of each month.

Best of luck!

Comments

  1. Heather, this is really great advice! I have not had writers block, but there have been times when I couldn't figure out how to fix an issue. Usually I will walk with hubby and talk about the issues. But one time I was babysitting a grandchild and talked to him. He was 9 months old, and learning to crawl. But he was a great listener as I chased him around. Moral of that story, I you don't have someone to discuss the story with, talking to yourself can really help. And if you do it in the shower....all the better. Thanks for a great post!!

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    Replies
    1. Excellent point, Karlene! Someone to talk to, even if they are too young, can help you break through! That's a brilliant point.

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  2. I only get writers block if I don't know where the story is going (or hit a snag like you said). I can avoid this most of the time with light outlining at the beginning, before I start drafting. But if I do hit a block, I just figure out how to fix the plot point that's not working and then I can move on again. Usually this happens within a few hours to a couple days. Otherwise, if I'm not writing it's simply because I'm being lazy :)

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    1. That's part of why I love outlining now! Excellent way to work it out. And so true, I find that if I go too long without writing, I'm just being lazy too. LOL!

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