5 tips to combat writer's block

You’ll have heard it many times, I’m sure, that writing isn’t easy; especially when you’re trying to write 50,000+ words. I tend to start well but then it happens - writer’s block. Even the best writer‘s can’t hide from it. So I’ve compiled my top five tips to break the block.

1. Keep writing.

When you get to a point where you don’t know what to write, write anything. Put your book aside, open another document and write whatever is in your head or start a new project. This was some great advice that worked for me. It enabled me to continue writing even if I did stray off topic a while. It’s important that you keep the momentum going, so keep writing. Eventually you may have an idea that will get you back on track.

2. Get out.

Sometimes dwelling on the fact that you don’t know what to write can make it worse. So put the laptop - or device of your choosing, down and get some fresh air. Take a walk, do something fun, do anything but think of your book. Ideas will begin to flow and you’ll be rushing back to write.

3. Feng Shui.

People laugh when I say Feng Shui but everything has an energy and what you send out you attracts so, clear the clutter, get some fresh flowers, use yellow to attract creativity, green for good luck and a picture of a mountain to depict success. You’ll be writing in no time.

4. Get inspired.

Read books from your favourite Authors or watch a movie related to your genre. I find ideas develop or inspiration can strike when you see truly great work that you want to emulate. I wrote my murder mystery AIM FOCUS SHOOT because I loved watching ‘Murder She Wrote’ and ‘Columbo’. I wrote my rhyming children’s books because I loved reading Dr Seuss.

5. Research

If I find myself struggling more than usual I take a break from writing and I do some research that could help me with my book. For example if my protagonist worked in a specific occupation I’d research that role to better understand it for my character. You can do this for a number of things too such as places or people and their characteristics.

There you have it, my top five tips to combat writer’s block. They worked for me, I hope they’ll work for you too.