If you think you have writer's block, it's all in your head. Like any idea, you can accept or reject it.

The best way to handle any problem is to prevent it. Here is a proven prescription for avoiding the blank page blues

1. Develop an idea you are enthusiastic about. Enthusiasm keeps you going when the going gets tough, and it's contagiousyour reader will get it from the book.

2. Schedule regular writing time, even if it's only an hour a day. Sticking to a schedule fosters creativity and gets the book finished.

3. Use writing time for writing. Think or plan while you walk the dog, ride the subway or bus, drive to work or do the dishes.

4. Don't try to edit as you go. It's counterproductive. Instead, keep notes on changes that occur to you and mark the spot with something distinctive, such as *** so you can find it easily later.

5. Set a specific time to do any editing you can't live without: the end of your working period, Monday morning before you start work, or any other time outside your daily writing schedule that works for you. If you can hold most editing until your first draft is finished, you'll be able to see everything in perspective and do a better job of editing.

6. Be cautious about reading your work to others or asking them to read it and comment. There are two kinds of comment: valid criticism and reader reaction. Both are valuable, but be sure you take into account the person's background and degree of expertise in writing fiction. Don't let your work get nit-picked to death.

These few things will help you get your book finished at least in first draft. Once you are able to read your story through, you can rewrite, make changes, edit andd fine tune until it's as good as you can make it.

There's nothing like practice. the more you write, the easier handling the basic stuff becomes. Practicing good habits helps build confidence, and good self-confidence banishes the idea of writer's block and makes you a better writer.

Copyright 2005

Marilyn Henderson
Http://http://www.MysteryMentor.com