Do you ever fall into a writing slump? Perhaps you are between writing projects or you are burning out on the one you are working on. Maybe you suffer from writers’ block. You are poised to write, but your brain and imagination won’t cooperate. How do you handle it?
For writers’ block, especially if you have an assignment and/or are on a writing deadline, I would just start writing. Type your thoughts about the fact that you can’t think of anything to write. Then consider the topic you are trying to approach. Type some facts, thoughts, stories related to the topic and see what comes up. Often, this exercise will lead right to a good starting place or even a good middle that you can use to ground your chapter, article or story. Just delete the jibber jabber you wrote in the beginning and move on with your story.
Write something else. If you truly can’t focus on the topic or theme at hand, if it is driving you crazy just thinking about it, if you are drawing a giant blank, write a story about your cat’s latest cute antic, your cousin’s eventful visit last weekend, or describe the lovely dinner you prepared for the family the night before. The point of this exercise is to start the flow of words coming from your imagination to the computer screen (or onto the paper if you prefer). Once the words are flowing nicely, begin to think about the project at hand and you might be surprised to discover what flows out.
Many times over the years, when I’ve felt stuck or stilted in my writing, I will attempt to remove myself from the equation. I quiet myself using a meditative process (self-hypnosis and prayer work, too). Then I place my hands on the keyboard and allow my fingers to seek out the keys they want. I have been surprised many times at how clearly and easily a phrase or entire article will appear as I sit back and watch it happen.
These are tips for overcoming temporary writers’ block. But what about when you are between projects or you are experiencing burn out? Hey, I say walk away. It’s time for something new in your life—new scenery (how about having iced coffee on the patio), a new activity (does your garden need tending?), a new direction (a shopping trip can be a nice distraction), company (this is a good opportunity to spend time with your favorite non-writer friends) or some other diversion tactic.
I like to take a break between projects and spruce up an area of the house that has been neglected after months spent writing a book, for example. Pick up one of your hobbies for a great burst of creative satisfaction. Go out and adopt a kitten or older dog companion. Cook a dish for or make something else to share with a neighbor. Get some serious exercise. Visit a local Farmer’s Market and stock up on good-for-you fruits and veggies.
Writing can become a lifestyle. Many of us have created careers around our love of writing. But everyone, even creatives who are doing what they enjoy most, need a respite from the routine, lest we become stagnant. At least that’s what I tell myself when I am enjoying an afternoon away from the office.
How do you deal with writers’ block, burn out or those slow periods between projects? Leave your comment here.