Overcoming Writer’s Block
Tips & Tricks to avoid getting stuck in the literary mud
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Carrow Brown
Blank Page Syndrome
Writer’s block. It’s the creative equivalent of hitting a wall during a marathon or encountering a boss fight you just can’t beat. Every writer faces it sooner or later. But here’s the good news: with the right tools and mindset, you can overcome it and even come out stronger on the other side. Whether you’re stuck on a blank page or bogged down mid-story, this guide will show you how to crush writer’s block like a seasoned pro.
Carrow Story Time
Back in 2020 I had the worst writer’s block in my life. It wasn’t a simple aversion to writing but attempting to do left me manic at times and–after a lot of struggle–I gave up writing. There was a combination of factors at play: I’d moved from AZ to FL and all my worldly possessions were hijacked by a mover who disappeared for seven months (not joking), closed my publishing company, and I kept getting sick with the wonderful medical diagnosis of ‘we don’t know why.’ My life was a mess and so was I.
What Causes Writer’s Block?
To conquer something, you need to understand it. Writer’s block can sneak up for different reasons, including:
- Perfectionism: Trying to write the perfect draft in one go? It’s like expecting a PR on your first day back at the gym—unrealistic and unnecessary. I’ve known so many authors that won’t move onto the next sentence until the one they are on is perfect.
- Burnout: Overloading yourself without rest can drain your mental fuel tank. Don’t dismiss burnout or it will lead to longer and larger consequences.
- Fear of Failure: Worrying your work isn’t good enough can stop you in your tracks.
- Distractions: From phone notifications to never-ending emails, modern life is full of interruptions.
- Lack of Direction: I am a fan of outlining. Mostly because I don’t sit and wonder what I should write for the day. My friends who don’t outline often voice writer’s block more than outliners.
- Stress: Stress is the creative killer and if you are overloaded with it, it makes creative thinking a difficult endeavor.
Figuring out the root of your block is step one in defeating it.
How to Avoid Writer’s Block
The best defense is a good offense. Here are practical steps to keep writer’s block at bay:
1. Build a Consistent Writing Routine
Routines create momentum. Write at the same time every day—whether it’s for 15 minutes or two hours. Think of it like daily training: you’re conditioning your brain to show up and perform. Every morning I give myself one hour to write. Sometimes it is 100 words and other times it is 3000 words. Either way, that hour is always used.
2. Create a Focused Workspace
Your writing setup should feel like a command center. Clear the clutter, minimize distractions, and make it somewhere you actually enjoy being. Add inspiring elements like posters, books, or tools that spark your imagination.
Be careful with how much you fiddle with your area. I’ve seen some folks spend the better part of an hour to make sure their smelly candles and special rocks were lined up just right for the ‘perfect writing experience.’
3. Set Realistic Goals
Break your work into smaller, achievable goals. Instead of thinking, I need to finish this book, focus on writing 500 words or one scene at a time. I always tell writers to do 250 words a day and by the end of the year, their book will be done. Progress adds up.
4. Stay Physically Active
Movement fuels creativity. A quick workout, a brisk walk, or even shadowboxing can help clear your mind and get ideas flowing. Physical activity is like a reboot for your brain.
5. Read Outside Your Comfort Zone
Reading widely—fiction, non-fiction, or even graphic novels—can reignite your imagination. Fresh perspectives fuel new ideas, so dive into something different.
6. Gamify Your Writing
Turn writing into a challenge. Track your word count like a high score, or set up rewards for hitting milestones. Tools like Pacemaker or even a simple spreadsheet can help you see your progress in real time.
Exercises to Break Through the Block
If you’re already stuck, don’t panic. Here are some exercises to regain your creative footing:
1. Freewriting: The Creative Warm-Up
Set a timer for 10 minutes and write whatever comes to mind. It doesn’t need to make sense. It’s like stretching before a workout—getting your mind loosened up and ready to tackle the real work.
2. Write Out of Order
Stuck on one scene? Skip ahead to the part of the story you’re most excited about. Writing out of sequence keeps the momentum going and gives you something to build on.
3. Use Prompts to Jumpstart Ideas
Sometimes, a little nudge is all you need. Try prompts like:
- “What if your protagonist made the wrong choice?”
- “Describe a fight scene using only what the character hears.”
Think of prompts as sparring matches to sharpen your storytelling skills.
4. Switch Mediums
If typing feels tedious, grab a notebook and write by hand. I am a big fan of this. There is something about handwriting that activates the brain and helps with problem solving. Or try dictating your thoughts into a voice recorder. A change in how you write can break monotony and reignite your creativity.
5. Visualize Like a Director
Close your eyes and picture your story like a movie. Imagine the setting, the characters, the action. Then write what you see. This approach turns your inner storyteller into a visual creator.
Strategies to Beat Writer’s Block Head-On
When writer’s block hits, it’s time to go into problem-solving mode. Here’s how to face it down and get back to work:
1. Accept the Block
Fighting writer’s block only makes it worse. Accept it as part of the creative process. It’s a temporary challenge, not a permanent defeat. It’s okay to accept it happens for a day.
2. Step Away to Recharge
Take a tactical break. Go for a run, hit the gym, play Tetris, or work on a side project like fixing something in the house. Sometimes, stepping away is the reset your brain needs.
3. Tackle It Like a Puzzle
If you’re stuck on a specific plot point or character arc, treat it like a problem to solve. Ask yourself questions like:
- “What’s the worst thing that could happen to my character right now?”
- “What if I flipped this scene’s outcome entirely?”
Approaching your story from a problem-solving angle keeps you engaged and curious.
4. Reassess Your Goals
Sometimes writer’s block stems from trying to do too much too quickly. Scale back your goals, focus on small victories, and build momentum from there.
5. Change the Perspective
If you’re stuck in your protagonist’s head, try writing the scene from a side character’s point of view. You might uncover details that re-energize the story.
Long-Term Strategies for Mastering the Craft
Writer’s block can be conquered in the short term, but building habits ensures it doesn’t keep coming back. Here’s how to stay on top of your game:
1. Journal Your Progress
Keep track of your wins, struggles, and breakthroughs in a writing journal. It’s like keeping a training log—you can look back to see how far you’ve come and learn from past successes.
2. Experiment with New Forms
Step outside your comfort zone. Try poetry, short stories, or even screenwriting. Experimentation keeps your creative muscles flexible.
3. Focus on the Long Game
Writing is a marathon, not a sprint. Some days will be harder than others, but consistency is what gets results. Celebrate the small victories—every paragraph, every sentence counts.
4. Stay Inspired
Fuel your creative fire by surrounding yourself with inspiration. Read great books, watch impactful movies, and engage in hobbies that bring you joy.
5. Build a Support Network
Join a writing group, find a critique partner, or connect with other writers online. Having a team in your corner keeps you accountable and motivated.
Carrow, did you get back into writing?
I did! In a strange plot twist, I got a spark of inspiration for a story and then wrote the entire thing in a week after not writing for almost a year. After I saw that I was able to write again, I continued to write when time permitted and lessened the pressure on myself to do it.
Final Thoughts: Own the Process
Writer’s block isn’t a wall—it’s a hurdle. With the right tools and mindset, you can jump over it and keep moving forward. Writing is a skill, a discipline, and an adventure. Treat it like one. Push through the tough days, celebrate the victories, and never lose sight of the story you want to tell.
The blank page is your opponent, but it’s also your ally. Take a deep breath, roll up your sleeves, and get to work. You’ve got this.
