This Week's Topic:
How do you beat writer's block?
This is something I struggle with at times. It shows up as mega-procrastination... like way more than usual. I have to check other blogs, facebook, twitter, then all again. Get a drink. And then decide I probably don't have time to make enough progress to make starting to write worthwhile...
But it means I'm stuck.
The only cure is time. And making myself show up at the computer.
I give myself a little break. Do some of that houseworky kind of stuff i usually avoid. This lets me think about why I'm stuck. But without staring at the screen thinking about why I'm stuck. Usually this does the trick. if not i re-read, waiting for the bit that makes me feel a bit queasy... like i'm off track. Often I need to go back. Sometimes the problem is that I'm trying to push the characters in the wrong direction.
Sometimes my brain is fried and some exercise or kid time is all i need.
What about you??
Making yourself sit at the computer is a big one, I think.
ReplyDeleteI agree on both, the only cure is time and forcing yourself to go to the computer. It can be hard to try to write when you're uninspired--usually I just end up on my blog or surfing youtube :/ Total time wasters.
ReplyDeleteCleaning is one of the things I do when I get writer's block, too. Cleaning and listening to music. It's amazing what a person can come up with while cleaning :)
Procrastination, I hear that.
ReplyDeleteProcrastination is my nemesis, too. But I think you're right about going back and re-reading. Even if I can't find what has made me stuck, it makes it easier to see where I might need to go.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree---usually when all my momentum comes to a stop it's because the scene is going in the wrong direction. And usually it isn't a hard fix, I just need to realize what's happening and go with the instinct.
ReplyDeleteChristine - gotta show up to get something on the page... as hard as it might be
ReplyDeleteAimee - blog and youtube sound way too appealing. Words so much harder.
AJ - I think I'm a master... but i'm probs not alone.
Crystal - re-reading gives me the chance to love the characters who are making me so miffed... hopefully anyway.
Sarah - instinct is the thing. Generally is something is wrong I know it, but trusting myself isn't always easy!