I am almost positive that everybody has experienced writer’s block at one point or another in their life. Whether it’s a paper for school, or an article like this one, writer’s block is pretty commonplace. Here are just a few ways to combat writer’s block when it strikes.
1. Take a shower
I can’t be the only one who has my best thoughts in the shower, or some other inconvenient time when I’m away from anything to write the idea down on. Without fail I think of my best tweets or article topics when showering. When in doubt, just take a shower; even if you don’t think of the Internet’s next greatest article, at least you had a relaxing shower, or bath, if that’s how you roll.
2. Read
Reading other great writing, whether it’s a novel, article, or other essay, can really help to get your own ideas flowing too. Reading also gives you a good idea of how your writing should turn out when the writer’s block finally stops.
3. Go on a nature walk
Nature can be super inspiring, and with writer’s block, anything super inspiring can definitely help. Take some time to go outside and explore wherever you are, it may bring some really cool and unique ideas along with it. And even if nature or walking didn’t help for you, at least you got out and did something fun.
4. Stop thinking about it so much
This could very well be the hardest on this list, but it’s a crucial one. Sometimes you’re looking too closely, when you really need to look at the bigger picture. Take a break from thinking about whatever you’re trying to write, and focus on something else you can do. When you go back to writing, you should notice that you have some fresh new ideas that came up. At least for me, some of my best ideas come to me once I stop thinking so hard about needing an idea.
5. Watch TV or a movie
Ideas can really come from anywhere, and sometimes just something you happen to see on TV or in a movie can spark a new idea. This is an easy activity to do at the same time as the not thinking about it all too much. Also, it’s a super easy way to continue to procrastinate the writing you were supposed to be doing, all in the name of curing writer’s block.