Writer’s block is really frustrating because there’s always a deadline and maybe your brain decides to ignore the deadline. Wanting to write and not being able to is difficult. I like to stick to subjects I care about, I try not to write something just for the views/shares. But darnit it’s difficult to do with this darn wall taking all the happiness away from me.
1. Go people watching.
People watching is really fun. There is something about watching strangers interact with their surroundings and peers that is just so interesting. Going for a walk out to the park and sitting on a bench to just watch everyone can really inspire you. You might see a behavior that has been repeated and you would want to write about. And maybe you might even get to see a puppy.
2. Avoid distractions.
The biggest distraction that demands our love and attention is our cell phones. I know it’s hard to stay away from Instagram or Snapchat for a few minutes but it’s not helping you. Checking your phone every few minutes disturbs the flow of your thoughts and it’s hard to get back into it.
3. Listen to music.
Music is really incredible and it has this effect on me that takes me to a different world. Closing your eyes and listening to your favorite artist or genre does wonders for you. Listening to the different harmonies and colors of the music is great for relieving stress and letting your mind wander to a creative place.
4. Ask a friend for help.
That’s what friends are for, right? They’re there to help you when you need it. They might not give you serious advice that would actually help but talking to someone is nice.
5. Carry a notebook around with you.
Inspiration or any idea can come from anywhere. Making a mental note isn’t always the best way to do it because memory is kinda unreliable. So I like jotting a few ideas down in my phone or on a notebook and later it would be easier for me to get back to it and pick up where I left off.
6. Doodle.
This relates to listening to music. It’s another creative process that let’s you focus on something other than your writing. If you’re not a fan of doodling, try adult coloring books! They’re awesome and I own four.
7. Take a nap.
Maybe you’re just too tired to write (like I am at the moment). There’s no way you can get any work done when you just can’t focus on anything but sleep. Walking away and taking a nap can relieve stress and refresh your mind.
8. Write in a different place.
Looking at the same green paint you’ve had in your room for six years gets boring after a while. Take your laptop and go to a bookstore or park with a great view to put you in a different setting to generate new ideas.
9. Watch the news.
The news has perfect hot topics on air that work with writing. You can grab an idea about politics or anything to create an opinion and write a great article about.
10. Freewrite.
Combat writer’s block by writing about literally anything. Don’t focus on what your readers want, focus on what you like to write about and that’s where the best ideas come from. You don’t need rules-- swear like a sailor, use improper grammar. Do whatever you want because no one can tell you what exactly you need to write about.
