This post on writer’s block was updated on June 2, 2021.
R.L. Stine, author the Goosebumps series, was interviewed by Gotham Writers’ Workshops. He was asked about his take on writer’s block. R.L. Stine says, “I never had writer’s block. I really don’t have time for it – too many books to write.” He tells writers to keep going even when the writing isn’t easy. He makes a good point by saying, “You know you can go back and fix it.” That’s good writing advice.
There really is no reason for writer’s block because every day life provides you with ideas. Whether you listen to the news or read the newspaper, read the news online, overhear conversations, read blogs, or participate in forums; you’ll find inspiration just about anywhere at any time.
10 Easy Ways to Keep Writer’s Block Out of Your Mind
Stop Believing in Writer’s Block
This can be tricky when other writers tell you writer’s block is part of a writer’s life. Heck, I have even wrote blog posts about it. But you don’t have to stay stuck in your writing. Start observing your surroundings with your ears instead of your eyes and you may be surprised by the amount of stories that you can write.
Participate in Writing Exercises and Prompts
The Creative Copy Challenge is one of my favorites. You even receive feedback on your submissions. Now that’s a novel idea!
Do Crossword Puzzles
Not only do crossword puzzles keep your mind sharp, but they can help you to unlock the hidden ideas in your mind. You never know what word may spark an idea that you may turn into a best-selling book.
Play Brainy or Word Video Games
My mom loves AARP and plays the word games on the website. Heck, I’ve played some of the games featured on AARP. Yahoo! offers brainy and word games as well. Playing video games may actually help you with your writer’s block because your mind won’t be focused on whatever it is you’re trying to write. By shifting your attention, you may uncover angles or stories that you may not have thought of before.
Start Affirming That There is No Such Thing as Writer’s Block
Affirmations are positive statements that work when you’re in a ‘good’ feeling state. They don’t work if you’re feeling down and out. A couple of affirmations for writer’s block are:
- I have plenty of writing ideas.
- I easily think of writing ideas.
- I’m able to create new writing projects.
Join a Writers Group
Meeting with other writers is a fantastic way to think of new writing ideas. If you need some help brainstorming for ideas, ask your group to help you.
Read, and Then Read Some More
When’s the last time you read a good book. Reading is good for the mind and soul. You never know what ideas will ‘pop’ into your head after reading a good book.
Write Daily
You probably heard this one repeated over and over again. Here it is again: write every day. Write a poem, blog post, article, short story, or haiku. The point is to write!
Subscribe to Writer’s Magazines
Check out Writer’s Market and Writer’s Digest. These are the most popular publications for writers. Sign up for their newsletters and writer’s block will disappear overnight.
Believe in Your Writing
Sadly, some writers don’t believe in their writing. They’ve probably read or heard too many ‘horror stories’ about writers receiving rejection letters. Remember, John Grisham received 30 rejections for A Time to Kill which was eventually published and made into a movie. This can happen to you if you believe in you and your writing.