WHAT IS WRITER’S BLOCK?

Writer’s block is a big deal when you really want to write, when your dream is to see your published novel, blog, article, etc. in the hands of readers. Oxford Languages and Google defines writer’s black as, “the condition of being unable to think of what to write or how to proceed with writing.” You may have experienced this many times by now, if you’re reading this specific article. 

I get it–we turn on a writing movie and see the writer sitting at their desk all day, pondering what to write. And that’s ALL THEY DO. They wait for inspiration. But that’s not how an actual writer gets inspiration. They actually act, rather than wait.

My favorite authors admit that they travel, go to the cafe, or just get out of the house to find inspiration. You don’t have to do exactly this–because of finances or other circumstances–but you need to start acting. 

3 WAYS TO GET INSPIRED TO WRITE:

1. Watch a screen (I know, terrible advice from a mom and ex-teacher)

Inspiration comes when you least expect it. It doesn’t come when you want it to. (Just like a job opportunity.) However, you still have to be on the lookout for it (just like you would as you continue searching for a job.) And one of the best ways to do so is by watching something, from a movie to a TV show to an episode of your favorite YouTube topic. Something may click in your head as you’re viewing your program. 

Personally, I’ve gained blog and future novel inspirations from watching Doctor Who and YouTube. A word, phrase, or sentence may resonate with me, sparking inspiration. And then I’m writing away.

You try it!

2. Read a book 

This one is easy–too easy–as reading and writing go hand in hand. If you want to write, and get better at writing, you have to read. Easily, you’re building your vocabulary. But most importantly, this not only puts you in the head and mind of another writer–metaphorically–but you’re viewing their writing style and deciding on your own writing style. And the writing becomes a part of your subconscious. You will subconsciously start mimicking these authors, who inspire you to write. (Note: When I say mimic, I’m not plagiarizing.)

I have a few books that have inspired me to get better at my writing, and they are listed in my Books to Reread blog post.

So instead of reading blog posts, such as this, or asking Google or YouTube for help, pick up a book. Your greatest writing may come to you while reading Shakespear or Dogman–your choice. 

3. Go for a walk

This goes back to tip one (Watch a screen)–As you’re walking, you may pick up some inspiration, such as a conversation strangers are having, animals playing in their natural habitat, the feeling of the sun or breeze on your skin, and so forth. 

Personally, I don’t like walking with nature. Minnesota summers are hot and humid, and winters are snowy, icy, and miserable. I don’t like the weather. Therefore, if I need to get out of the house and go for a walk, I go to the mall. There’s a pretty dead mall that my little family goes to because there’s not a lot of people and cars (unlike the Mall of America), there’s plenty of space for my kids to run around in, my husband and I get to enjoy walking and chatting (again, no excess bodies to worry about), there are rides for the kids inside the mall, and the shops we enjoy browsing are all there. (Including an America’s Best for my optical needs.)

CONCLUSION:

In conclusion, to gain writing inspiration you have to DO something. Movement and activity is going to help you get inspired faster than sitting at your writing desk, waiting for something to come to you. I challenge you–once this article ends, get out of your chair, bed, wherever you are, and change the scenery to get your writing started and published.

Good luck!