As a writer, I have to admit that writer's block can sometimes feel like an unscalable mountain. I would spend countless hours staring blankly at the wall, racking my brains for a flicker of creativity or a strand of an intriguing idea. And trust me, nothing could be more frustrating.
Over time, I discovered a few helpful tricks that have been effective in overcoming your frustration. If you're a writer, perhaps you'd find them useful too.
The first thing I usually do when confronted with writer's block is to turn on some music. Music has a powerful effect on our emotions and our brain. It can ignite our creativity, inspire new ideas, and transport us to different places and times. Always does it for me.
The second I recommend is to go and take a ride. When you're stuck, a change of environment can do wonders. Whether it's a drive around the city or neighborhood, or even a long walk, any form of movement can stimulate your brain and kickstart your creativity.
Next, when the frustration of staring at a blank page starts to mount, I simply write about what I did that day. This is an effective strategy to ease yourself into the writing mode. The fact that you're recounting a familiar experience takes the pressure off, and you might just be surprised at the inspiration that flows naturally.
Another tip is to call your close friends. A friendly conversation can stir up different emotions, offer you a new perspective, or even give you fresh ideas. Our friends also know us quite well and may provide some much-needed motivation to continue writing.
All of these tips have served as life jackets, rescuing me from the depth of the frustrating sea of writer’s block. However, what works for me might not necessarily work for you. It's important to explore and figure out what techniques and activities best stimulate your creativity.
Do you have any unique tips that you use when you're wrestling with writer’s block? I would love to hear from you. After all, every writer needs an arsenal of these, for those days when the words just don't seem to come.