Every writer, both amateur and expert, experiences writer's block. It can be frustrating, especially when you have the motivation to write, just not the ideas. These are just 5 of the things I do to break through that block, and get inspired!
1. Go old fashioned, and step away from the computer!
Most people these days write on their computer. Believe me, staring at that blinking cursor on your word document won't make it better. Step away from the computer, pick up a pen and paper. That is, after all, how it used to be done. You'd be amazed how using a different medium can help.
2. Take a walk, run, or bike ride. Just get moving!
Not only is exercise good for you, but it is a great stress reliever. Sometimes you need to be alone with your thoughts, while still actually accomplishing something. Since sitting at your computer isn't helping, move your muscles and get those endorphins pumping. It will improve your mood, calm you down, and a change of scenery will help the ideas come back. Try the "5 Mood Booting Workouts" by Tori Rodriguez on realsimple.com.
http://www.realsimple.com/health/fitness-exercise/5-mood-boosting-workouts
3. Have a spa day and light some candles
If exercise isn't your thing, or leaving your space isn't an option, try lighting some candles. Scent carries more memories than any other sense, by far. Scent is associated with the part of your brain that affects memory, and feelings. This is essential for a writer! Light your favorite candle, sit back, and relax. Memories and feelings can not only relax you, but can lead to some great ideas. You can even try your favorite lotion, or take a shower and use your favorite shampoo. As far as candles, I love Midnight Sea by WoodWick candles. If staring at the computer screen gives you headaches, try a lavender scent. Lavender is a great herb for headache relief.
4. Catch a movie
Not only watch a movie, but watch a movie you have never seen, and would normally never consider watching. Its important to expose yourself to something new, especially something creative. You might be struck by the music, the art, the lighting, the actors, or the plot. For me, independent films are the most inspiring. A lot of thought goes into them (in my opinion) and sometimes, a lot of little hidden meanings. Empire online has a great list of independent films. If you want to look for a different movie, use the link below!
http://www.empireonline.com/features/50-greatest-american-indies
5. Go to the library
If you love to write, I have a feeling you love to read too. Head to your local library. Go through the stacks, look at covers, read back covers, look at the different styles. Find your favorite book and read the first chapter. Remembering all the books you love might spark some inspiration. Other authors, after all, have gone through what you are going through. Again, if leaving isn't an option, there a couple ways you can bring the library to you! Try using the Overdrive app. This app will have your local library, and if you enter your library information (you'll need to have a library card) you will have access to tons of ebooks, or books on tape. Listening to the book can be just as effective. Also, try going to goodreads.com. You'll be able to see what other people like, what they recommend, and also have summaries for books you never knew existed! It always helps me to rate all the books in a category, like I'm walking through the aisles at a library. By doing this I remember how inspirational those books were.
No matter what works for you, always remember writer's block is temporary. Just take care of yourself, and those idea will come flowing back!
1. Go old fashioned, and step away from the computer!
Most people these days write on their computer. Believe me, staring at that blinking cursor on your word document won't make it better. Step away from the computer, pick up a pen and paper. That is, after all, how it used to be done. You'd be amazed how using a different medium can help.
2. Take a walk, run, or bike ride. Just get moving!
Not only is exercise good for you, but it is a great stress reliever. Sometimes you need to be alone with your thoughts, while still actually accomplishing something. Since sitting at your computer isn't helping, move your muscles and get those endorphins pumping. It will improve your mood, calm you down, and a change of scenery will help the ideas come back. Try the "5 Mood Booting Workouts" by Tori Rodriguez on realsimple.com.
http://www.realsimple.com/health/fitness-exercise/5-mood-boosting-workouts
3. Have a spa day and light some candles
If exercise isn't your thing, or leaving your space isn't an option, try lighting some candles. Scent carries more memories than any other sense, by far. Scent is associated with the part of your brain that affects memory, and feelings. This is essential for a writer! Light your favorite candle, sit back, and relax. Memories and feelings can not only relax you, but can lead to some great ideas. You can even try your favorite lotion, or take a shower and use your favorite shampoo. As far as candles, I love Midnight Sea by WoodWick candles. If staring at the computer screen gives you headaches, try a lavender scent. Lavender is a great herb for headache relief.
4. Catch a movie
Not only watch a movie, but watch a movie you have never seen, and would normally never consider watching. Its important to expose yourself to something new, especially something creative. You might be struck by the music, the art, the lighting, the actors, or the plot. For me, independent films are the most inspiring. A lot of thought goes into them (in my opinion) and sometimes, a lot of little hidden meanings. Empire online has a great list of independent films. If you want to look for a different movie, use the link below!
http://www.empireonline.com/features/50-greatest-american-indies
5. Go to the library
If you love to write, I have a feeling you love to read too. Head to your local library. Go through the stacks, look at covers, read back covers, look at the different styles. Find your favorite book and read the first chapter. Remembering all the books you love might spark some inspiration. Other authors, after all, have gone through what you are going through. Again, if leaving isn't an option, there a couple ways you can bring the library to you! Try using the Overdrive app. This app will have your local library, and if you enter your library information (you'll need to have a library card) you will have access to tons of ebooks, or books on tape. Listening to the book can be just as effective. Also, try going to goodreads.com. You'll be able to see what other people like, what they recommend, and also have summaries for books you never knew existed! It always helps me to rate all the books in a category, like I'm walking through the aisles at a library. By doing this I remember how inspirational those books were.
No matter what works for you, always remember writer's block is temporary. Just take care of yourself, and those idea will come flowing back!