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15 tips for writer's block

I suffer from it a lot so I hope these tips help a bit.

  1. Write down phrases, images, and any other idea that comes to you. When you're blocked, go to this list and use one (or more) as a prompt. That note struck a chord with you in the first place, so it may strike a chord with you again.
  2. Journal. This is a great way to get some of the moments out that may inspire you later.
  3. Just write anything. This can even just be writing "I don't know what to write" over and over again or describing something right in front of you. It may eventually stir something.
  4. Find an easy writing prompt. Maybe write a listicle (whoops, you all have caught me doing that, haven't you). I was once told to write in a way that you can do it every day and I think that's the best advice I've ever gotten
  5. Consume media with the tone you're trying to get at. For me audiobooks and TV work the best so I can hear the voices, but I find it easier to get to a certain place if I've just been consuming media that's close to it.
  6. Find someone to partner with. You two can exchange prompts, read each other's work, recommend inspirational media, and more.
  7. Find a prompt generator you like. I like The Most Dangerous Random Prompt Generator, but there are tons out there. If you can't get an idea in your head, have a bot generate one.
  8. Take the first line of any book as a prompt. When you can't get your own beginning, steal someone else's. 
  9. Start a blog. Hey, here's one I did and keep doing. A theme to your blog could help you focus, but this goes back to the idea of finding a way to write every day.
  10. Write a bunch of writing prompts. What stops me from writing sometimes is wondering where my writing is going, so writing a bunch of prompts helps take the pressure off as all I need is an idea. Plus, I can use these prompts later.
  11. Take a walk. This can help clear your head, but it can also help you find inspiration.
  12. Move to a different spot to write. Sometimes a change of scenery, however small, is all you need to get the juices flowing again.
  13. Look up public domain images on flick (or elsewhere). You can just type in one random word and see what you get. Images can really spark inspiration for me.
  14. Write short form. Find a short form that works for you whether that is a haiku or a six word story. The pressure of length being gone can help alleviate writer's block.
  15. Try doodling. This can help relax your brain, but it can also create an image to inspire you.

(Prompt by Lauren Harmon)

"This Wood Pen" by Alan Levine


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