When the Words Won't Come: Writer's Block

Writers block is the devil. I hate it and am pleased to say I don't get it that often.

But what do you do when you have writer's block? Are there ways to wake up the brain and reopen the imagination channels? I am happy to say there are. If you are going through writer's block right now, don't freak out like I usually do. Stay calm. The brain doesn't work very well under pressure so take a deep breath.

First, find the reason why you have writer's block. Is it because you are fed up with the project and can't see it going anywhere? What if the light bulbs in your head have stopped turning on and now you just sit in the dark, waiting? Are you afraid? Fear can do it. The fear of failing. Fear of people rejecting your work or you even not liking it. Are the words not coming as easily as before? Figure that out first, then you'll more easily find a way to wake up that creative genius within you.

Once you've figured out what is blocking your writingness, here are a few things that wake up the brain. Fresh air. Whenever I need to clear my head, I take a walk. The fresh air, coolness of the day, and nature calm my racing thoughts and give me a change to breathe. Then again, I love nature and that's what relaxes me, so find out what relaxes you. A romantic movie? Hanging out with friends? Going for a run? Talking to your cat? Whatever it is, no matter how odd, do it. You're head needs to be clear to let the words flow again. 

Another way to wake up the brain is by tapping along nerves in your collar bone, tempos, and wrists. I'm serious! Just do it! It's like giving your brain a fresh cup of coffee. (Trust me. Do it.)

One reason for writer's block is that you've stressed your brain out too much. You've been looking for that perfect word, that genius, new idea that will make your story the best, or overcome a little problem within the plot of your tale. The brain can freak out, just like you can, when it's under too much pressure to perform. Give it a break! It's trying! You won't think of anything by telling yourself, "Come on, think! Think of something!" That doesn't help at all. So what do you do? Stop thinking about ____. Do something else. 

Wash your car, do the dishes, fold laundry, anything that is a task you have to focus on, but not enough to be a challenge. Give the brain something else to do, something not creative, so that the creative side can peacefully work out the problem without you getting in the way. And then, when you least expect it, the light bulb will turn on and the answer will plop down in your lap. 

Another thing you can do it sit down and write the first thing that comes to mind. No, it doesn’t have to make sense (and I don't think it's supposed to). Just write. Forget logic and forget about clarity, and let your mind control you pen and scribble whatever it wants. It’s weird at first, but, after a page or so, it’s real fun! Let your imagination simply be without any guidelines and boundaries. That's the best type of imagination anyways.

I hope this helps!

Don't forget everyone goes through writer's block (the key word is through). It's a common stupid thing everyone must figure out how to conquer. And you'll conquer it. 

Happy writing!