At one time or another we all encounter a point where we don't know what to write or say, whether that be for an essay, an email, or even an article. The words just don't fit right or don't embody the emotions we are seeking. Our minds feel cemented over, shifting our thought patterns from a fluid of ideas to a solid block of insurmountable ice- we are at an impasse. The weight from this battle is draining, and often leaves us needing a nap but there a few tricks and tips to getting through this in one piece.
1. Step Back- Take a moment to free yourself from the stress of it all by walking away from the assignment or project for a short amount of time. This act of giving yourself space from the task at hand will allow you to open up your mind in respect to the writing and maybe even help spawn ideas or a direction of where you should go.
2. Jam Session- Mentally distracting yourself gives you a chance to think about things other than what is frustrating you. Music is the perfect escape for this, and in addition to listening to your favorite songs, allotting yourself time to dance it out and get your body moving will increase your energy levels and provide you with the necessary motivation to reach your assignment goals.
3. Wash Away Your Problems- Showers or baths give you the opportunity to have a clean slate of sorts. The physical washing away of your previous stresses cleanses the soul and relieves some of the tension, ultimately freeing you of your blockages and enabling you to continue writing.
4. Dear Diary- Maybe your trouble lies with the fact that you have a lot on your mind. Free writing will help to make room in your brain for the things that you really need to focus on. Your mind is like a filing cabinet and spending the time to organize and sort through what is happening up there will help to make it run more efficiently.
5. Sleep Through It- Believe it or not, your brain continues to work when you have checked out for the night. As you sleep your sub-conscious has the ability to hash out problems and process ideas that have been troubling you. So, setting aside time to catch some Zzz's will not only help you to work through old thoughts but it will establish new ones too.
No one likes to feel stuck and stranded when it comes to writing especially when an assignment hangs in the balance, but by trying some of the tips listed above reaching your goals and finishing your project is going to be immensely easier. The most important thing is to give yourself time, don't try to rush the process because you will only end up prolonging the problem. Good luck and happy writing!
