How To Beat Writers Block
August 27, 2007
All you need to do to end writers block is use these 5 easy steps consistently so they becomes a habit. Once you do these five steps a few times you’ll be amazed at how quickly inspiration will come to you.
1. Gather Raw Materials
Do your homework. Start by actively researching what you’re writing about. If you’re writing a novel, go out and gather materials about your characters. Visit places where they would hang out. If you’re writing a non-fiction book, ask your target market what their greatest challenges are.
You also want to study areas outside of your main topic or industry. Always enrich your general knowledge because as you write, you’ll have a greater pallet of colors to draw from. If you’re writing a book about gardening then visit museums. If you are writing a book about marketing then be sure to read the latest Harry Potter book.
2. Think Hard
After you’ve done your research spend time digesting all you’ve seen and learned. If you’re working on a novel, what are all the possible ways two characters can interact? Make up ridiculous scenarios and think hard about what could happen between them. If you’re writing non-fiction, look at your topic from all angles like you would a jigsaw puzzle.
As you’re thinking hard, little ideas will start to pop up. Write them down!
Keep processing in your head and keep taking notes until you’re exhausted. You’ll reach a hopeless stage where everything is jumbled in your mind. That’s good! You’re ready for the next step.
3. Stop Thinking!
Drop the issue as completely as possible from your mind. Let the problem work itself out in your subconscious. Literally, sleep on it.
4. Let the Idea Pop In
If you did the last three steps correctly, the forth step should happen automatically. A surprising thing will happen. Maybe you’ll be putting away groceries or washing your hair then all of a sudden, “POP!” A brilliant idea and a blaze of clarity will flash in your mind. Go write it down!
5. Put the Idea to Work
The trick to ending writers block is going through steps 1 – 4 on a regular basis. Be consistent in your research, push yourself and then take time off from writing so that your subconscious mind can process the information. Once you get the flash from a new idea write it all out – it’ll be easy because the idea will be crystal clear with all the elements falling into place.
The habit of producing new ideas can end writers block forever because you’re brain gets used to being inspired instead of being stuck. Start to use this 5 step technique today so you can produce more work in less time.
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