Writer's Block

photo couresy of Darren Hester


Do you believe in it? Have you experienced it?

I can't say I believe in writer's block. What I do believe is that some days I am more inspired to write. On the days I'm not inspired, it's not that I don't have anything to say. Goodness knows I always have something to say. But I may not like the tone on the rhythm or the way it looks on my computer screen.

Did you ever have one of those nights where you were tired, yet you couldn't sleep? The more you tried the more frustrating it became. Or how about a recipe that you've made a thousand times and everytime you make it, it tastes different?

When I experience on of those "frustrating" times when I'm writing, it's usually because I am trying too hard (kind of like the sleep thing.) Sleep experts tell you when you are dealing with insomnia the worst thing you can do it stay in bed. Get up, walk around, watch television, read a book, but don't lie in bed. I try and follow the same advice when I'm sitting at the computer and the words won't come, because the more I stare at the screen, the more frustrated and anxious I become. Changing scenery is sometimes just the thing I need to work out the cobwebs in my head and find the perfect words I wanted to say.

I found this article by Jennifer Roach that talks about jumpstarts when your writing is stalled. Even if you don't suffer from writer's blocks, these are some great ideas for story starters or for just letting your muse wander.