I hate to admit it, but I know the challenges of staring at a blank page. Having a deadline and being under contract can make it even worse. Whether you're stuck on a scene or struggling to find inspiration, not knowing what to write can be both frustrating and discouraging. Fortunately, there are many ways to break through and get back to work. Today, in the Tuesday Ten blog series, I'll share ten tried-and-true methods that have worked for writers over the years. From taking a break to trying a new writing environment, these tips will help you reignite your creativity and get those words flowing again. So, grab a cup of coffee and let's get started!
Tips:
1. Take a break: Sometimes the best thing to do when you're feeling stuck is to step away from your writing. Go for a walk, do some stretching, or take a nap. This can help clear your mind and provide a fresh perspective when you return to writing.
2. Write something else: If you're feeling stuck on one project, try working on something else for a little while. This could be a different scene in your novel, a blog post, or even a journal entry. The act of writing something different can help break you out of your writer's block.
3. Change your environment: If you're always writing in the same place, try changing your environment. This could mean writing in a coffee shop, a library, or even outside. A change of scenery can help stimulate your creativity.
4. Talk to someone: Sometimes talking through your ideas with someone else can help you get unstuck. Find a writing buddy or join a writing group where you can bounce ideas off each other.
5. Make a list: Write down a list of possible plot points, character traits, or settings for your story. This can help generate new ideas and give you inspiration.
6. Read something inspiring: Read a book or article that inspires you. It could be a novel in your genre, a memoir, or even a self-help book. Getting inspired by someone else's writing can help you break through your writer's block.
7. Use prompts: Writing prompts can help spark your imagination and provide a jumping-off point for your writing. There are many websites and books with prompts to choose from, or you can create your own.
8. Write badly: Give yourself permission to write badly. Just get the words down on paper and worry about editing later. This can help you break through any perfectionist tendencies that may be holding you back.
9. Free-writing: Free-writing involves setting a timer and writing whatever comes to mind, without any concern for grammar or structure. This can be a helpful technique for generating ideas and getting the creative juices flowing. Even if what you write during this exercise doesn't end up in your final work, it can help you break through and get back to writing.
10. Use a different medium: Sometimes, a change in medium can help. If you're used to writing on your computer, try switching to pen and paper or a different device. Alternatively, you could try dictating your ideas using speech-to-text software. Experimenting with different mediums can help you see your writing from a fresh perspective and spark new ideas.
Thank you for stopping by my Tuesday Ten blog series! I hope the tips shared here have been helpful and that you feel inspired to tackle your writing challenges head-on. Remember, writer's block is a common problem, and it doesn't have to stop you from achieving your writing goals. By using these tips and finding what works best for you, you can break through and continue to grow as a writer. So, mark your calendars and join me again next Tuesday for another set of ten ideas to help you on your writing journey. Together, we can overcome any obstacle and achieve our writing dreams.
Author Bio:
USA Today Bestselling and Multiple Award-Winning author, Merrie Destefano writes lyrical tales of magic, mystery, and hope. Her books have been published by HarperCollins, Entangled Teen, Walter Foster, and Ruby Slippers Press. She also worked as the editor of Victorian Homes magazine, Zombies magazine, Haunted: Mysteries And Legends magazine, American Farmhouse Style magazine, Vintage Gardens magazine and was the founding editor of Cottages & Bungalows magazine. You can sign up for her newsletter here.
