Tuesday, May 4, 2010

How to Break Through Writer’s Block

As a writer, if you are having a difficult time pushing through writer's block, here are a few simple tips to get you started in the right direction. There is nothing more frustrating than being unable to complete a project or even get started for that matter, but often times, all it takes is a little bit of effort on your part to get the creative juices flowing!

1.     Stop editing. If you already have a copy that you are working on and need to add to, stop editing right away. Instead, start writing from where you left off, no matter what direction it may take you in. If you have already edited or cut out large pieces of your text, you may feel completely frustrated about the direction that your work is heading in. Still, don't get discouraged, and instead, focus on the task at hand of writing what is in your heart. It really will work!

2.     Get emotional. If you are stressed, sad, or frustrated, sometimes it helps to get those emotions out wherever you can. Maybe you can write a separate page about how you are feeling to spill out your emotions, and it may work to get your creative juices and flow of writing heading in the right direction.

3.     Play some music. Of course, it is helpful to have the right style of music for your personality, whether it is classical music, indie music, or even your favorite band from high school. This could bring back nostalgic memories, emotions, and help you begin to open up to your writing at hand.

4.     Brainstorm ideas. This is something very helpful because it gives you the freedom to flow, no matter what you think of. Write down all of your ideas on paper for your writing project, and don't leave anything out. When you don't edit yourself in brainstorming, you can come up with creative and helpful ideas that you may not have thought of before.

These simple tips will take you from being blocked to moving forward in your writing project! What a relief...

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