How to Get Over Writer’s Block – Writing Motivation

Writer's block is a common phenomenon that affects many writers at some point in their careers. It can be frustrating and disheartening, but the good news is that it is a temporary condition that can be overcome.

Here are some tips that can help you overcome writer's block and get back to writing.

1. Take a Break

Sometimes, taking a break from writing can help you overcome writer's block. Try to do something completely different from writing, such as going for a walk, doing some exercise, or just relaxing and reading a book. This can help you clear your mind and come back to writing with fresh ideas. I do my best writing when I’m out walking around in nature. Just make sure to bring something to jot your ideas down on.

2. Change Your Environment

If you are used to writing in the same place, consider changing your environment. Try writing in a different room, at a different time of day, or even in a different city. This can help you see things from a different perspective and give you new ideas. If you normally write in the morning, try writing late at night. The time of day can drastically affect our moods, and thus our writing.

3. Write Freely

Don't focus too much on perfection. Just let your thoughts flow freely onto the page. Write down anything that comes to mind, even if it doesn't make sense or seems irrelevant. This can help you get past the initial hurdle of starting to write and give you a starting point for your writing. It’s 10x easier to edit something than it is to write in the first place. So, don’t worry if something doesn’t sound perfect right away. Circle back to it later.

4. Set Goals and Deadlines

Setting goals and deadlines can help you stay motivated and focused on your writing. Make a plan and stick to it, even if it's just writing for a set amount of time each day. The discipline of working to a schedule can help you overcome writer's block. Stephen King wrote 2,000 words a day when he was younger. These days he’s down to about 1,000. Which is still better than Hemmingway’s 500. But 500 is still better than zero. Hold yourself account to a daily word count and never miss it unless your kid is being born.

5. Read and Research

Reading and researching can help you get new ideas and inspiration for your writing. Read books, articles, and other writers' work, and take notes on what you like and what you don't like. This can help you get a fresh perspective on your own writing and give you new ideas. Try watching a really great movie outside of your usual genre. Watch all the Oscar nominees. Watch a movie from the 80s or the 60s. Exposing yourself to different content will get your creative juices flowing.

6. Collaborate with Others or ChatGPT

Collaborating with other writers or artists can be a great way to overcome writer's block. You can bounce ideas off each other, give each other feedback, and motivate each other to keep writing. Post your current draft to a review site. Or ask for a help on a writing forum. You could also try collaborating with ChatGPT to write your novel. Just tell it what’s happening in your story, and then ask it for ideas on what could happen next.

7. Get More Sleep

Getting enough sleep is crucial for maintaining good mental and physical health, which can have a positive impact on your writing. Lack of sleep can lead to decreased creativity, focus, and motivation, making it even harder to overcome writer's block. Try to get at least 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night and see if it makes a difference in your writing. Making sure you get enough sleep can also help you feel more refreshed and energized during the day, which can help you tackle writing projects with more enthusiasm and creativity.

8. Embrace the Power of "But" and Unexpected Events

The power of "but" lies in its ability to shift your perspective and allow you to see things in a new light. When faced with writer's block, try looking at it as a challenge and say to yourself, "I'm experiencing writer's block, but this is an opportunity to try something new and different." This positive mindset shift can help you overcome the frustration and overcome the block.

Unexpected events can also be a great source of inspiration for writing. Embrace serendipity and be open to new experiences. Whether it's trying a new hobby, taking a trip to a new place, or simply talking to someone new, these experiences can provide new perspectives and ideas for your writing. Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and see where it takes you.

Writer's block is a common challenge that every writer faces at some point, but it can be overcome. By taking breaks, changing your environment, and writing freely you can overcome writer's block and get back to writing. Remember, writing is a journey, not a destination. So, stay motivated and keep pushing forward, even when it feels tough. With time and persistence, you'll overcome writer's block and find your writing motivation again. Thanks for reading and don’t forget to follow us on Twitter.