While many creative beings do not believe in writer's block, I am here to tell you that it does exist. Life happens and when it does, it can throw off even the simplest things like getting ready for your regular workday.
So, to combat writer's block, Lil Drew will tell you how she gets over it fast and easy:
1) Stop and do something that offers relief and reduces stress. It can be listening to music, taking a walk, watching your favorite movie or spending time outside of your home or away from your writing place. I draw from my surroundings all the time, from how people look to their names, eager to insert what I absorbed into my writing. While many authors say they do not read while writing, I will say for me that reading another genre or a classic helps me relax before catapulting me into a creative place in my head.
2) Write something different. It can be anything from a poem to outlining an entirely characters for a new storyline. You can even dust off an older body of work you shelved to see if the characters now leap out and speak to you. I learned this from my publisher and am happy to say that it really does work.
3) Write a random section in your storyline. For me, I know the beginning and ending but the middle somehow is a blur to me. Because of this, I've forced myself into somewhat outlining my storyline. So while I may not know when a particular event will occur, I may know a job is lost, a paramour is caught cheating, etc. So jump to a scene and weave it back in later.
4) Interact with your readers. Use sneak peeks or character visuals to see if the readers ask a question or remind you of something the character did that resonated with them. Use that excitement and energy to jump back into your storyline. Book discussions and author spotlights may also wake up a character when you have to speak about what drove you to create them in the first place.
5) Give yourself permission to rest. Self care is the best way to remain alert, active and engaged. If you are burnt out, it shows in your writing. Ask me. I am here to tell you whenever I write books while being burnt out, I do not deliver the best quality project.
Are these written in stone and are sure to work? Nope, but it's better than sitting around and not producing anything while other authors remain relevant, dropping books on a daily basis. Want to chat, hit me up on Facebook on my Like Page, Author Tisha Andrews or join my readers group, Lil Drew's Readers Crew.
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