We've all faced it at one point or another, right? Here are some tactics I use to get through it.Take a small notebook everywhere you go.
When something pops into your head about your WIP, write it down. It may help move things along later.
Do something that give you clarity.
Mine is taking a walk. I always end up writing something in my head while walking and it almost always offers me some clarity.
Write a different section of your WIP.
I've done this-moved on to a section where I know what's going to happen, then go back to where I was blocked and see what happens.
Outline (or kind of outline).
I'm not really an outliner, but when I get stuck, I will take a notepad, at the top I write the beginning of the story, at the bottom I write the end, then in the middle I write things I know I want to happen. Then I have some points to work with and I find ways to get from point A to point B.
Take a break.
Do something else for a little bit, chores, gardening, watch TV, anything to rest your brain and eyes for a few.
Do something that inspires.
Music often inspires my writing, so sometimes when I'm stuck, I listen to music. Mostly indie. That always gets me going.
What do you do when you get writer's block?
Music is always a good one. I always seem to go for chocolate, too - hey, and good old caffeine.
ReplyDeleteAlas, the only thing that REALLY works for me, the only magic answer, is to turn off the internet. And I hate to do that. Really hate it. maybe I'll try that walk instead!
I love a walk for working out a problem... when I know an endpoint but can't see how to get there... I think a busy body and relaxed mind is most effective.
ReplyDeleteI do pretty much all the things you've said. If it is REALLY bad, I will write something different (a short story or something). typically though, these tricks are enough.
Thanks for sharing ladies. Going for a walk now then to revisions (ugh). Maybe it will help me get through them.
ReplyDeleteI don't think I've ever been blocked. I think writer's block is more a state of mind than anything else. Funny - somebody just posted an article about it here: http://www.businessinsider.com/the-myth-of-writers-block-and-7-ways-to-get-unstuck-2011-8
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing the article Ian!!
ReplyDelete