Many writers experience what we call writer’s block at some point. This condition, in which a writer’s ideas and motivation for writing dry up could arise anywhere within your writing process. In one study of 2,500 writers, results revealed that 63% of those surveyed have experienced this seemingly frustrating barrier due to high expectations, fear of failure, anxiety, and unrealistic deadlines.
If you are a writer who have struggled or are struggling with writer’s block, don’t give up easily. The good news is, you can beat the block through various effective science-based strategies. Try applying the following tips below so you can finally get back to writing.
Take a Nap or a Short Break
The optimal time for writing varies for different writers. Some say that they are more creative early in the morning, while some prefer to write late at night. But no matter what time you think you are most productive, there will still be times when you’ll experience writer’s block. Taking a nap is one of the best ways to beat it! In fact, many scientific studies reveal that the brain’s creative activity is highest during or immediately after sleep. Even if you are a night owl, napping before your late night sessions is an excellent idea.
Taking a short break and doing something else can also help you fight writer’s block. So move away from your computer and bake cupcakes, create simple crafts, and do other things to feel motivated once again.
Get Up and Do Some Exercises
We all know that exercising boosts energy levels and improves oxygen flow in the brain. This is why exercise has been linked to increased focus and creativity. Even walking can do wonders to your mental wellbeing. A Stanford study supports this belief and found that walking boosts a person’s creative output by 60%.
A journal study by Frontiers in Neuroscience also found that exercising on a regular basis enhances your cognitive skills. So, if you want to beat and prevent writer’s block, it’s probably best if you work up a sweat by jogging, riding a bike, or dancing regularly.
Practice Mindfulness Meditation
Meditation offers a lot of benefits for our body, mind, and spirit. It is particularly helpful for writers as it promotes creativity and divergent thinking. According to a study published by the Journal of Psychiatry Research, mindfulness meditation changes the gray matter concentration in the brain regions involved in memory processes and learning.
If you’re feeling anxious, try meditating to overcome writer’s block. Here are some free guided meditations that you can practice on your own.
Seek Inspiration from Other Writers
Another way to beat your writer’s block is by reading the works of some of your favorite writers or authors. It could be simple quotes, an article or blog, or an entire novel. You can go back and reread some passages from a book that inspired to start writing. This strategy can give you the motivation and confidence that you need to start hitting your keyboard again and write new ideas.
One scientific study by Frontiers in Human Neuroscience supports the belief of writers and artists that inspiration is a key motivator of creativity. So whenever you struggle with a block, think of your favorite author, and read his work again.
Listen to Music
A research found that listening to music helps boost a person’s mental health in amazing ways. May it be classical, jazz, rock, or whatever genre that inspires you, music can certainly help you unlock your creativity and beat the block. So have your playlist ready any time and be in writing mood again.
Don’t let writer’s block stop you from creating and sharing your ideas through writing. Follow the tips mentioned above and you’ll get past the hump. So start typing a few words and lines again. You’ll be able to finish your masterpiece in no time!
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Writer’s block is truly the bane of a writer’s existence. I remember going through 3 years of it. It was horrible.
I will have to agree on seeking for inspiration. Not many have time for exercise and sleep (guilty as charged), but inspiration is something that can come in all shapes and forms. Motivation is truly a driving force to get one out their own stupor.