Running Low on Motivation? How To Break Through Writer’s Block
Running Low on Motivation? How To Break Through Writer’s Block
By Holly Yeagle
Writer’s block overtakes most of us at some time. You sit down to write, stare at the screen, and every task in your lengthy to-do list takes over. Some people would call your screen as blank as your mind, but many times it is the need to churn glowing creative text in little time that leaves us feeling overwhelmed.
Writer’s block is a condition where a writer experiences a creative slowdown or finds it challenging to produce new work. Blocks are common throughout many facets of life. Chefs may have trouble creating new dishes for a time. Baseball players who are not playing at their usual performance are known to be in a slump. The lack of motivation to study is often called Student Burnout. It is common for writers to have trouble finding the right words. Where words once freely covered a page, in some instances, the words feel “stuck.”
Just as there are steps to help one fall asleep, here are a few strategies for breaking through writer’s block.
Rid Yourself of Distractions
Put your phone away and clear a block of time to be alone with your thoughts. This doesn’t need to be sitting down; consider pacing in your home or going for a walk outside. The point is that you are thinking about the words and considering all the “what-if” scenarios. Some people say their best thinking takes place in the shower. Changing your environment may also prevent you from forming negative feelings when sitting down to write.
Set Small Goals
Writing a lengthy narrative can be daunting. Try setting a small goal to begin with. Accomplish that, and at the end of the day, you can reflect on that small, although quite large, accomplishment. Even reading and researching the topic may be a goal to reach by the end of the day.
Ignore the Small Stuff
As you write, overlook the small details, misspellings, grammar mistakes, and other formatting foibles. Mistakes may be corrected on another day. If you are breaking your writer’s block, make sure that the small details do not derail your train of thought. Some people find help in brainstorming and free writing. Putting all the writing conventions aside for a time organizes new ideas and pathways that may lead to a composition you find pleasing.
Take Care
Deadlines may be looming, but remember, sleep is important. Think of sleep as the time that you are processing your narrative. During the various sleep cycles, research suggests that the brain works on unresolved problems, often leading to insights and creative solutions upon waking. Getting sufficient and quality sleep is critical for maintaining overall brain health and cognitive abilities.
Find Your Best Time
Discover when you feel the most creative. It may be the late morning after two cups of coffee, or it may be a quiet house while other members of the household sleep. Find your most creative time of day and schedule it! The time of day may just be the “special sauce” needed to fire your creative pistons.
Be Honest
Lastly, know when writer’s block is a symptom of a deeper issue. A support group may help you talk through the issue with like-minded people or spend some time with a trusted friend. Receiving constructive feedback may relieve the fear of failure, perfectionism, or lack of inspiration. Objective advice may be the key to overcoming the hurdles of writer’s block.
Keep in mind that writer’s block is not likely to be a one-time occurrence. When you get past the block, write a note about the experience and what worked for you. You may realize the core issue, which will guide you through the next episode. The words of encouragement will help you the next time you are faced with writer’s block.
Ready to Overcome Creative Blocks?
At Write On Fundraising, we specialize in helping nonprofits craft compelling narratives, secure grant funding, and connect meaningfully with their supporters. Whether you’re facing a creative slowdown or need guidance on the next big project, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
Learn more about our grant writing, individual giving, and capital campaign services at Write On Fundraising. Let’s tackle your challenges together and bring your vision to life! Email info@writeonfundraising.com or call 888-307-0087 to learn how we can support your success.