8 Ways To Fight Writer’s Block

Ahh writer’s block. It’s such a real issue and I feel like it happens to more people than we think. If you haven’t gotten it before, then you’re super lucky and also probably new to writing because it happens to the best of us. 

Personally, writer’s block happens quite often which leaves me discouraged and frustrated because I want to make progress on my wip. 

What is writer’s block?

Writer’s block is when you run out of ideas, feel uninspired, frustrated, or just don’t want to write. It can last from a few days to months and can be frustrating especially if there’s something you really want to work on but just can’t.

How do you get writer’s block?

There are various ‘causes’ of writer’s block such as harshly criticizing your own writing, fear of comparison to other writers, lack of external/internal motivation, lack of ideas, or even when you have too many ideas and don’t know where to start.

Luckily, there are ways and things you can do to try to shake yourself out of it! I’m excited to be able to share with you some of the tips and strategies that have helped me step back into the world of writing. 

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Here are 8 ways to fight writer’s block:

1. Develop a writing routine

Having a set routine or time of day to write can ensure that writing still happens no matter your mood or motivation. Even though you’re in a slump, discipline will get you through.

2. Try smaller, casual writing exercises

You might feel a lot of pressure to write something that is perfect because you want your wip to be amazing – who doesn’t? Unfortunately sometimes when this happens you might lose out on the enjoyment of writing. Take a break and work on other smaller projects or just practice your craft casually through writing exercises!

3. Give yourself grace on your first draft

Your first draft is meant to be the first (of many). Most people actually have at least 5-6 drafts before they get to their final manuscript so don’t put too much pressure on yourself to make it perfect. It’s simply a starting point, a structure from which your editing can sprout from. Many authors actually say that their first draft is very different from their final product and it’s not until the third or fourth draft that they start adding in ‘prettier’ writing and lines that later become their readers’ favourite lines.

4. Join a writing group

Having a group of people that get together regularly (even if it’s online) for the purpose of writing, critique, and support can be very encouraging. Seeing other people who are not hindered by writer’s block can motivate and inspire you.

5. Watch YouTube videos

There are so many amazing YouTube videos out there made by everyday people and even published authors! They post writing tips, critiques, exercises, and even have writing sprints where they film themselves working quietly and you can follow along – it almost feels like you’re writing together.

6. Work on another project

Maybe your writer’s block is fueled by a lack of ideas for your current story which can cause frustration and discouragement. So start fresh on a new project and new ideas will flow in.

7. Remember your goals

Whether it’s a goal to finish your first draft by a certain date or to finish the fourth edit of your book, remember why you started and where you want to be. This usually helps with planning and getting back on track!

8. Read a book

Dive into another world! Immersing yourself into a good book will allow you to relax a little bit and enter the perspectives of other characters which may then be able to inspire you to get back to writing.

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Unfortunately, writer’s block is something that is inevitable from time to time so don’t beat yourself up over it. Remember that you’re not alone through the struggle and that you must get yourself back to writing in order for your story to be finished! 

Have you ever struggled with writer’s block? Let me know what worked for you in the comments below!