In the first installment of the series on how to break through writer’s block when you are freelance writing, I talked about the wrist grabbing monster that it is, and gave you five ways to try to satiate the beast. If none of those worked, I’ve compiled five more that are almost guaranteed to break the monster’s grip on you. While the first one may put you outside your comfort zone, sometimes that’s exactly what you need.
Mixed Media
The act of writing is just one of the many creative things that your brain does. By breaking away from the computer keyboard and working with your hands on a mixed media project, you will be activating parts of your brain you don’t always use while writing. Once you’ve got your creative juices flowing, sit down and get to work.
Partner Up
Writing is often seen as a solitary act, for me it isn’t always that way. When writer’s block hits, I often turn to my girlfriend for help. Simply having someone to discuss your ideas with can make a huge difference and lead to an epiphany. It’s the outside perspective that can help break you out of your rut.
Change Your Surroundings
Freelance writing can become tedious. If you can’t change what you’re writing, try changing where you’re writing. Go outside and write (or if you’re outside go back in), you’ll be amazed how a simple change in venue can invigorate your prose.
Hit the Headlines
If you’re at a loss for where to start on your next piece, look at the headlines. This is exactly what Toni Morrision did to get ideas for her books. You don’t have to use current headlines (even though there are hundreds available on the net) just as long as there is something that piques your interest. Use this headline as a jumping-off point.
Go For a Walk
Sometimes writer’s block is the result of burnout. Stepping away from the computer and going for a walk will help get the blood flowing to your brain again. A good long walk or a short cardio session might be just the thing to take care of your atrophied brain cells.
These are just a few of the many ways to show writer’s block the door. The next time your brain decides to shut down mid-sentence, try one of these tricks and get the blood cruising through the back alleys of your skull to pick up those hidden writing gems.