Struggling with writer’s block can stifle creativity, so we sought advice from authors and creative professionals on their best techniques to keep the words flowing. From the simple act of taking a break and changing scenery to tracking emotions and discovering patterns, here are five transformative strategies shared by our experienced Owner and Author Success Coach.
- Take a Break, Change the Scenery
- Sit in Silence, Await Ideas
- Move Your Body, Spark Creativity
- Write Freely, Remove Expectations
- Track Emotions, Discover Patterns
I find that taking a break and doing something completely different helps overcome writer’s block and keep creativity flowing. Stepping away from the screen and engaging in an activity like going for a walk or listening to music often clears my mind and sparks new ideas.
When I hit a wall while working on a big project, I’ll take a short walk outside. This change of scenery and physical activity usually helps me return with a fresh perspective and renewed energy. It’s surprising how often a simple break can reignite creativity and help tackle writing challenges.
Sit in Silence, Await Ideas
“Simply Sit” is a technique I adopted from a fellow coach years ago. When I am having trouble writing, I sit down somewhere with zero distractions and set a timer for 30 minutes. I keep nothing with me except for a notebook and pen.
I sit in silence, allowing my thoughts to swirl before they eventually settle down after about 10 minutes.
The remaining 20 minutes produce some of my most creative thoughts because I’ve let my mind rest. As new ideas emerge, I write them in my notebook.
Kelli Anderson, Career Coach, California Commercial Insurance
Move Your Body, Spark Creativity
My best advice for overcoming writer’s block is to go for a walk or go to the gym—anything where I move my body. It’s the best way to get unblocked and put myself in a creative mode. I also enjoy reading a book or a newsletter, and somehow ideas just flow.
Hanna Larsson, Startup Advisor, Content Creator and Founder at Huntrs, Huntrs
Write Freely, Remove Expectations
The one technique that never fails to work for me is to sit down with pen and paper and remove all expectations. I clear my mind of all the chatter of what others’ expectations are of the project, my expectations, and I write.
Freely and with abandon. The result is a delightful project that reads much better than I hoped. It works every time!
Zane Carson Carruth, Author, Carson Marketing, LLC
Track Emotions, Discover Patterns
I track my emotions: when they happen, why, and what writing is elicited whenever there is a shift in my feelings. Do it consistently, and you’ll notice patterns that emerge, as well as an overall sense of well-being and acceptance.
Something is always birthed from this process. Try it for a week to ten days; it’s like a magic Roto-Rooter that clears any block to your creative process!
Ali Tugwell, Author Success Coach, selfpublishing.com
