There is no one-size-fits all solution to overcoming writer’s block, as the cause of this condition can vary from person to person. However, there are a few general techniques that may help to get the creative juices flowing again. One suggestion is to change up the environment and routine when one is planning to sit down to write. If one has a tendency of writing at a desk in home office, there is the need to consider working in a different room within the same house, or even at a local coffee shop (Evdash & Zhuravleva, 2020). Sometimes simply moving to a new setting can provide the spark of inspiration needed to break through a case of writer’s block. Another approach is to take some time away from writing altogether and instead focus on other activities that can help jump start the mind.
There are also other varieties of techniques that can be helpful in overcoming writer’s block. One approach is to draw or map out the paper. This can help a writer to visualize the structure of the argument and to see where each piece fits (Bastug et al., 2017). Another technique is to take sticky notes and write down ideas as they come; this can be a helpful way to capture thoughts before they slip away (Henry, 2020). Finally, it can be useful to formulate a concise thesis statement prior to beginning writing. This will help one to focus on their thinking and stay on track.
As a writer, I always adhere to different steps in overcoming writer’s block. First, I always take a break from whatever I am working on and come back to it later with fresh eyes. Sometimes all I need is a little time away to clear my head before I can start writing again. Another suggestion is to try writing in a different environment, or at a different time of day than I usually do. A change of scenery can sometimes be enough to jumpstart my creativity. Lastly, I always find it helpful to try brainstorming with someone else- sometimes another person can help spark new ideas that I would not have thought of on my own. My most helpful strategy is to take a break and come back later with a fresh mind.
References
Bastug, M., Ertem, I. S., & Keskin, H. K. (2017). A phenomenological research study on writer’s block: causes, processes, and results. Education+ Training. https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ET-11-2016-0169/full/html
Evdash, V. M., & Zhuravleva, N. N. (2020). Strategies for Overcoming University Researchers’ Writer’s Block. Высшее образование в России, 29(7), 80-88. https://www.elibrary.ru/ip_restricted.asp?rpage=https%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Eelibrary%2Eru%2Fitem%2Easp%3Fid%3D43154358
Henry, G. (2020). Rewriting and overcoming writer’s block. In How to Keep your Doctorate on Track. Edward Elgar Publishing. https://doi.org/10.4337/9781788975636.00054
Module 7 Discussion
Please provide two suggestions, from the textbook and/or outside sources, for overcoming writer’s block. Also, provide three suggestions that you use to handle writer’s block. Which of these has been most successful for you?
