10 Ways to Overcome Writer’s Block

Before you begin to write, the work can seem overwhelming and intimidating. You should not feel ashamed; everyone, no matter how skilled, experiences writer’s block. If you are stuck and lacking motivation, you can boost your creativity through various methods. Here are possible ways to overcome writer’s block for academic and creative writing.

1. Make a plan

Procrastination is often the biggest obstacle for writers to overcome. Putting off academic assignments until the last minute may be tempting, but you will have better results with more time spent. Knowing the time constraint you are working under is important, and a well-organized roadmap can help you finish on time. Take note of the deadline, and make small goals. One day, you can work on the introduction and first paragraph, another on the body paragraphs and conclusion, and you can spend the last days on revision.

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2. Use online resources

Many resources exist for writers like yourself who may be struggling.

• Writing prompts: short, yet can spark greater ideas

• r/writing, r/fantasywriters, r/writerchat, or r/writingadvice: useful subreddits dedicated to offering guidance to writers

• Writer’s Digest: a magazine that offers advice for fiction, nonfiction, and poetry writing

• Reedsy: writing exercises, short story ideas, and free courses

• Fantasy Name Generators: generators for naming characters and locations

• Word Hippo: find synonyms, antonyms, and words that rhyme

• Write at Home’s proofreading checklist: guide for style, grammar, word choice, and formatting

3. Brainstorm ideas

Think about what you want to write. Consider your interests and favorite works of media. Is there a type of story you want to tell? What tropes, literary elements, or themes do you want to include? Anytime you have any ideas, jot them down immediately before you forget. Your writing can look imperfect; get the words out of your head and onto paper, a computer, or even a sticky note. Save these notes, and do not delete or throw them away. You never know what breakthroughs may come at a later time.

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4. Ask for help

Friends or family members can often give you supportive advice and encouragement. Inquire about motivation methods and ask for feedback on your progress. There is a high chance that you have not noticed all of your errors, since you are reading the same words repeatedly. To be a good writer, you must consider suggestions and criticism from an alternate perspective. If the piece is for class, ask your professor if you need clarification about the assignment and instructions. Send them an email, and stop by during office hours.

5. Look at something creative

Seeing the work of others can serve as inspiration. This could be any media like a movie, book, TV show, artwork, podcast, or music. Pay attention to details, quotes, visual and literary elements, settings, and tropes to adapt in your work. Avoid getting too absorbed in other media, as you could feel inclined to avoid your writing.

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6. Get outside

Nature is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of life. Go for a walk, light jog, or another outdoor activity. Your movement does not need to be too strenuous, just enough to get your blood flowing. Hopefully, ideas will formulate as you breathe in the fresh air. A change in your environment is an excellent opportunity for your mind to relax before focusing back on writing.

7. Do something else

Sometimes you need to get your mind off of writing. Listen to music, cook your favorite meal, clean your bedroom, reorganize your bookshelf, go for a drive, take a nap, or practice yoga. Anything!

8. Think of the outcome

I am sure you would rather be doing anything other than an academic assignment, but you will have to persevere unless you want your grade to suffer. Spending more time on writing will likely improve your grade, which means your hard work pays off. Imagine the satisfaction of turning in your work, and you can spend your remaining time resting or relaxing. It is important not to get too caught up in these fantasies because it could distract you from your current goal.

9. Take time away

If you are not in the right mindset to work, leave the project for a bit. The time away from your writing will depend on how much you can spare. For a short break, take a shower or have a meal. If it is late, sleep and view your writing again in the morning. A few hours or days can make a huge difference in your perspective and will be like looking at the words with a fresh set of eyes.

10. Push yourself

Instead of making excuses, you can overcome writer’s block by… writing! Even though it may be difficult, writing something is better than not writing at all. Write a few words and lines. Nothing needs to be perfect, since you will have time to revise later. Having a few ideas written will allow you to formulate more extensive thoughts.

I hope these tips will help you overcome the difficulties you are facing. Writing is not easy, but you can do it!