"Writer's block" comes in many forms; some writers don't call it writer's block but it amounts to the same thing: the inability to write. It can manifest as a complete lack of ideas, an inability to move the plot along, disinterest in the subject or characters. Ultimately, the end result is the same: nothing gets written.
What Causes Writer's Block?
Writer's block can be caused by stress, both writing-related and non-writing-related. Family stresses from big to small can interfere with the writer's ability to put words on paper. Deadlines can cause some writers to freeze up, while the lack of deadlines can do the same for other writers.
Regardless of the cause, it is important to acknowledge and deal with writer's block in order to move forward. For the professional writer, it can impact income; if severe enough, it can be financially devastating.
Even for the non-professional writer, writer's block can be emotionally and spiritually demoralizing. Having a creative outlet allows people to express their inner lives and can provide a personal space where everything else is able to fade away. It can even serve to boost self-esteem - when it's functioning. When it's not, the key is to find a way to break through the barrier.
When Writer's Block Strikes, Take a Walk
Taking a walk conjures up images of peace and solitude. For some people, peace and solitude is exactly what they need to ground themselves and rejuvenate. For others, the image of taking a walk to enjoy the peace and solitude of nature makes them tense.
If this is the case, find the kind of environment that does energize and inspire - a thriving downtown environment, a waterfront, a college campus. No only can this experience revitalize, it provides an excellent source to ideas.
Taking a notebook along and using the walk as a writing exercise - jotting down images, snippets of overheard conversations, and random observations can help jar creativity.
Work on a Neglected House or Yard Project
This can be anything from "empty the dishwasher" to "take down those tree limbs." Set aside time –10 minutes, 4 hours – to focus on something besides writing. It may sound strange, but ideas have a way of popping up when least expected. This is why common advice to new writers includes "always keep a notebook with you at all times."
Working on a home project or just cleaning up the dishes can help relieve external stressors that impacts the writer's ability to concentrate. This means it's important to pay attention to the reasons causing the inability to write. Anyone who tries to do one thing while constantly thinking "I should be doing the dishes / laundry / taxes" will ultimately do neither.
Write!
Write anything. A journal entry. A blog entry. Flash fiction. Fiction writers can write small, random scenes with their characters. Write about being unable to write.
Putting words – any words – on a page can help the stuck writer feel productive and serve as a reminder that their talent for their craft didn't suddenly dissapear. It may be stuck or misguided, but it is still there, somewhere below the surface.
Remain Positive
This may be the most difficult. However, keeping in mind that, no matter how frustrating the dry spell may be, it will pass can help stave off despair. Once the words come back, remaining in a positive space will make it easier to except them and allow them to flow.
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