Writer’s Block: Blogger’s Edition
Your blog had been going well. Each week you would brainstorm new topics, research them, and pull the information together into a snappy, entertaining blog post. But now you have reached the point where you feel as if you already talked about every relevant issue that would interest your audience. Writer’s block keeps you from putting words to paper. Sometimes the solution to breaking down your writer’s block is simpler than you think.
Writer’s Block: Blogger’s Edition
1. Remove distractions
This does not mean sitting in a silent room with nothing but a laptop, desk, and chair. It means eliminating things that you know distract you in particular. This could be music, people, or an open window. Some writers actually believe they work better with people around them. Everyone has a different method.
2. Find a routine
Establishing a routine will help you get into character. Make yourself a cup of tea or a beverage of your choice, and put on your writer’s hat. It doesn’t matter what the routine is. It could be a particular you spot you sit in, just perform the exact same actions each and every time until you have mentally trained yourself for “writing time.”
3. Use bullet points
In the beginning stages of writing, it can be difficult to develop complete sentences. Start by putting your ideas in bullet points. You can come back and flesh them out once you get a better feel for your topic.
4. DON’T be intimidated
A blank page will forever be more daunting than one with words on it. Even if you do not like the content, remember that you can always return to the material and edit it. At least you have begun the process rather than staring at a blank screen. Something is better than nothing in this case.
5. Read
It can be a chapter from the book you’re currently reading, another blog, or an article from that magazine sitting on the coffee table. Reading someone else’s work can give you ideas and bring back the flow of language that you were lacking. Draw from their creativity and apply your own version of it in your blog post.
6. Talk to someone
Getting stuck in your own head is most likely contributing to your writer’s block. Have a stimulating conversation with a coworker or friend and let them do the talking. You may pick up on an interesting tidbit.
7. Change your environment
I am sure we have all heard the advice “go for a walk.” As cliche as this sounds, a change of scenery certainly will not do any harm. Better yet, go out and do something that gets your blood pumping like running or biking.
8. Keep a list of ideas
To avoid writer’s block in the future, think about having a place where you jot down ideas as they come to you, no matter where you are at that moment. Then when you feel uninspired, you will have a backup plan.
9. Start with a need
Identify a task that people struggle with, or an area where they could use a helping hand. It has been shown that readers are more likely to read an article if they believe it will help them accomplish something. Consider what questions are most often asked of you. If you have a solution to a problem, share it.
10. Combine two ideas
Bringing together two thoughts that seemingly have no connection can create a new and innovative illustration. Think about how to reinvent everyday objects, or issues that you have discussed many times before. An example would be talking about how blogging is like marriage, or cooking, or a variety of other activites. Find a new angle. It may seem silly at first, but over time you will learn how to think more creativity.