Graham Greene called it “creative blockage”, and while some authors deny its existence, many have fallen prey to this vicious monster - writer’s block. Writer's block probably goes back since the very beginning of writing, though the term was coined by Edmund Bergler who extensively studied writers with neurotic inhibitions of productivity. Edmund sought to find out exactly why these previously productive individuals could all of a sudden not write. I could bore you with the details of what writer's block is and its history, but that would probably take an entire day to read through. Instead, here are 3 nifty tips on how to beat writer's block:
1. Develop a Plan of Action
Many writers at times experience writer's block even before they start writing. Austin Kleon in his book “Steal Like an Artist” describes his analog and digital desks. The analog desk is basically the birthing place of his ideas, which he puts down on paper. The digital desk, on the other hand, is where his content is refined, through editing. This is a great way to fight writer's block. Instead of staring at your blank screen and not knowing where to start, shut down your computer and get a pen and paper instead! Write down your ideas and stick them all around your space if you have to. This way you develop a plan of action and your ideas can seamlessly flow as you have a beginning, middle and ending.
2. Brainstorm
This sounds easier said than done, and most writers can attest to that. However, you can try brainstorming by using the stream of consciousness writing. This is basically taking an idea, even a single word, and writing down every single thing that comes to mind when you think of that idea/word. This practice basically reactivates your brain into productivity mode once more, enabling you to transfer the same creative energy you apply in the stream of consciousness writing to your original work.
3. Shut Down the Inner Editor in You
It is very common for the first draft of any piece of writing to be rough, probably the reason why it is referred to as a “rough draft”. You have to own this. If you’re too fixated on perfection, you will find yourself over-concentrating on a single word, sentence or even paragraph and eventually lose your writing rhythm. Perfection is basically one of the baits that writer's block uses to catch you, don’t fall for it! After creating your rough draft, you can gradually edit it into something more pleasant. The trick is to write first, perfect later.
Most importantly, you need to remember to take care of yourself even as you fight off writer's block. Take a break and do something you enjoy doing, like taking a hike, baking, or even simply taking a nap. Truth be told, you could be experiencing a writer’s block simply due to exhaustion. For students experiencing writer's block, you may seek the help of professional essay writers to create custom writting for you. Such services are easily available online and guarantee you quality work done in a timely manner.