Overcoming Writer’s Block
When I was about 50 pages into my novel, I hit a significant block. Up until that point, things were going relatively smoothly. I had a detailed outline and had done extensive research, which kept me on track. But then, unexpectedly, I found myself questioning whether I even wanted to continue with the book. The excitement I initially felt had faded, and I wasn’t sure how to move forward.
Fortunately, I was able to take a short vacation around that time. Stepping away from my writing allowed me to clear my head, recharge, and return to my novel with renewed energy and perspective. After the break, I found that the words flowed much more easily, and I was able to push through the block and complete my draft.
Helping Students Overcome Creative Blocks
While taking a break was effective for me, I recognize that not everyone has the luxury of going on a vacation when they hit a creative wall—especially students. That’s why I’ve developed a few strategies to help both myself and my students overcome writer’s block without needing to step away for an extended period.
1. Take Short Breaks
Even if you can’t take a vacation, short breaks can still be incredibly effective. When I see my students struggling, I often encourage them to step away from their work for a few minutes. Whether it’s taking a walk, grabbing a snack, or simply closing their eyes and relaxing, these small pauses can help reset their minds and make it easier to approach the task with fresh eyes.
2. Switch to a Different Activity
Sometimes, the best way to overcome writer’s block is to engage in a completely different activity. I often suggest that my students switch gears and do something fun or creative that isn’t related to writing. This could be drawing, playing a game, or even listening to music. Engaging in other hobbies can stimulate creativity and help them return to their writing with new ideas.
3. Free Writing
One technique I’ve found helpful is free writing—writing continuously for a set period without worrying about grammar, punctuation, or even coherence. The goal is to keep the pen moving (or fingers typing) and let whatever thoughts come to mind spill onto the page. This can help break through mental barriers and get the creative juices flowing again.
4. Revisit the Outline
When I hit my block while writing The Moonshot Saga, revisiting my outline was crucial. Sometimes, writer’s block can occur when you’re unsure of what comes next in your story. Reviewing your outline can provide a roadmap and help you refocus on your goals. For my students, I encourage them to create outlines or even simple bullet points to guide their writing. Having a clear plan can make it easier to overcome blocks.
5. Discuss the Problem
Talking through the block with someone else can be incredibly helpful. Whether it’s a friend, teacher, or fellow writer, discussing the challenges you’re facing can lead to new insights and ideas. I often have one-on-one conversations with my students when they’re stuck, helping them articulate what’s causing the block and brainstorming ways to overcome it.
Conclusion: Embrace the Process
Writer’s block is a natural part of the creative process, and it’s something that every writer will face at some point. The key is not to let it discourage you or make you doubt your abilities. Instead, see it as an opportunity to explore new strategies, take a break when needed, and return to your work with fresh energy.
For me, overcoming writer’s block involved a mix of taking time off, revisiting my outline, and staying committed to the story I wanted to tell. For my students, it’s about finding what works best for them—whether that’s taking a short break, switching to a different activity, or discussing their ideas with others.
In the end, writer’s block doesn’t have to be a roadblock. With the right tools and mindset, it can become just another part of the journey toward creating something great.
