Have you ever sat staring for hours at a blank page on your computer screen wondering what you should write?
If you have, then chances are you are experiencing writer’s block. It is a condition where a writer cannot think of what to write and is unable to come up with any inspiration.
It is believed that writer’s block has been around for years and has affected many talented and world acclaimed authors.
What causes writer’s block?
In 1947, Edmund Bergler, a psychoanalyst claimed that it was a psychological problem caused by oral masochism, mothers that bottle-fed and unstable private love life (Wikipedia)
However, in the 1980’s and ’90s two other Psychologists, Jerome Singer and Michael Barrios, did extensive research with a diverse group of writers and found that the writer’s who were blocked were generally unhappy. Some of them had symptoms of depression, anxiety, procrastination, self-doubt, perfectionism, feelings of helplessness, loneliness and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
These writers with underlying psychological problems will need therapy that suits their underlying needs.
Personally, I experienced writer’s block when I have a dilemma that I am trying to solve. The problem usually consumed my mind thus removing creativity and inspiration.
Solving writer’s block
- Whenever I lack the motivation to write, I spent some quality time reading my Bible for comfort and strength. I realized that when you constantly give, you will become empty so you need the Lord to refill you by pouring His Word into your life.
- Drinking a cup of freshly picked mint tea helps to relax my nerve and allows me to think clearly.
Photo by Kaboompics .com on Pexels.com - Taking a leisurely walk in the park or in the countryside where you can enjoy nature’s natural bounty will definitely boost your self-confidence.
- Reading a book preferably something similar to the project that you are working on will help to inspire you.
- Working on another hobby apart from writing. For example, singing, sewing or crafting. For me, sewing with my hands is quite relaxing.
- Group discussion among other writers and brainstorming ideas can help to inspire you.
- Encouragements. Nothing beats an encouraging word from your friends or loved ones. Most of the time they will motivate you to get back around the computer and write something. Anything!
- Overcoming fear and anxiety. Fear will paralyze you. If you are fearful that your book will not sell or your writing is poor then this will cripple your creativity. Release the fear and write!
Have you ever had writer’s block?
If yes, how do you overcome it?
Share with us.
Thank you for reading!
References
Becoming the Oil and Wine 
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