Writers across the world experience this block phase many times a year and now it has become a constant buzzword. Before diving into the reasons and solutions for this problem, let me first simply define this term to all of you.
Writer’s block is a phase where authors face a creative plunge and ideas stop flowing in the mind. We sit with a blank page and a pen in hand, but ideas refuse to be put down on paper. We enter the overthinking phase and finally get exhausted by the fact that nothing productive has been done, the page remains full of scratched ideas or completely blank. We also start procrastinating once ideas aren’t coming. Relatable?
I have been personally been through this phase many times and I used to fear why this is happening. Until last year, I didn’t even know about this term and its meaning. Only after reading multiple articles and author experiences, I got familiar with the word and achieved a sense of satisfaction that this happens with all authors.
Well, there are multiple reasons for facing writer’s block and it’s absolutely normal for any author to face this. Excessive stress, anxiety, fear of failure, aiming for perfection and trying to judge oneself critically for a piece of writing are some of the common reasons which lead to writer’s block. When I am writing, so many times I judge myself for minor mistakes, or maybe for getting the ideas wrong.
But, with every problem there comes a solution and that is what I have learnt from various people who face writer’s block. I would like to list a few solutions which all of us can implement and remember as writers:
- Write whatever you can: while in the writer’s block phase, plan to write something daily, even if its for five minutes. Do not procrastinate. Just put down your thoughts randomly and don’t judge yourself in any case.
- Watch movies or good shows: movies and shows with authentic storytelling act as an inspiration for authors and this technique works wonders for authors undergoing writer’s block. It refreshes the mind and gives exposure to quality content.
- Read a lot: read, read and read. Books, newspapers, articles and editorials should be a part of your routine to inject more creativity and bring in a wide range of ideas for your write-ups.
- Go for a nature walk: its the best way to unwind and seek fresh ideas amidst greenery, flowers and people. It will help to trigger the brain in flowing natural ideas by observing the beautiful surroundings.
If authors follow these simple things, it will be easier to get rid of the block phase and we will be satisfied with our productivity over writing. So authors, forget all the stress, worries and anxiety ! Grab a pen, blank page and let the creativity and imagination take the center stage…