Writing is a solitary endeavor that requires concentration. Some writers need a quiet place away from distractions and others need a noisy atmosphere such as a coffee shop or the chaos of a busy day.
But there are times when no matter how perfect the environment, a writer just can’t write. Some call it writers’ block. No amount of staring at a blank page or tapping a pen on the desk will help.
If this is ever you (it’s often me), don’t give up…
Take a Break
Taking a break from the frustration of a brain devoid of ideas can help.
What will you do on said break? That depends on the amount of time you can afford to spend not writing. If you have a deadline, even a self-imposed deadline, give yourself at least ten minutes.
Ideas for a Short Break
- Take a quick walk or run to the mailbox, to the corner, or up and down a flight of steps.
- Take your dog for a walk.
- Meditate. There are some great 10-minute guided meditations on YouTube
- Yoga. Again, search YouTube for a short yoga flow.
- Write and repeat the words, “I am a writer. I am a creative genius.” Do this at least ten times.
- Draw. You don’t need to be an artist to sketch with a pencil or color with markers or paint.
Ideas for a Longer Break
- Cook or bake something yummy. (Don’t forget to remove the calories.)
- Weed your garden while listening to music or an audiobook.
- Read a book. Fiction or nonfiction.
- Do a craft. Macrame, sew, crochet, or knit. Cut and paste to create a collage.
- Make a vision board to show how you want to spend all of the money you will make on your book.
- Go for a manicure or pedicure. Get a facial or haircut.
- Call a friend or your therapist. Find a life coach.
Now Get Back to Work
Even if it’s not today, you’ll write tomorrow. Or the next day. That’s what writers do. They write.
Comments?
Do any of these ideas appeal to you? What are your ideas for a writing break?