What is writer’s block?
Writer’s block happens when you ‘fail’ to get any text written. It’s usually caused by a mental block—you’re brain won’t allow you to write down words. This happens, for example, because:
- You worry that you’re ideas are not smart enough.
- You’re concerned that you have poor language skills.
- You have too many ideas and don’t know where to begin.
- Or some other, often fear-based reason.
Writer’s block doesn’t mean your bad at writing. It just means that your inner critic is working overtime trying to protect you from potential mistakes. But know that mistakes are good, that’s how you learn. Writing is a process—you don’t have to get it perfect on the first try.
How to overcome writer’s block?
Since writer’s block is often caused by some sort of fear, it helps to create conditions to make writing feel safe and doable. Here are some strategies to try:
- Start small: Write one sentence, or one bullet point. This can help to kick your brain back into gear.
- Freewrite: Set a timer for 1 minute (remember, start small) and write freely about anything that comes to mind.
- Change your environment: Work in different place, for example a café, or change rooms in your home or office.
- Change the medium: Write with pen on paper instead of typing on a keyboard, or change the font of your text editor (Comic sans works well to take the pressure off 😉).
- Write down the worry: Note down what your worried about in a comment in the margins. Often just writing down the concern can help your brain to move on from it.
Tip: If you’re really struggling with writer’s block, it can help to talk to a professional. Many universities and research institutes offer confidential mental health services—make use of them💚