You Don’t Have Writer’s Block

Over the past week, I’ve had several conversations with clients about why they haven’t been able to get the ball rolling on their next content piece. I get it. You’re busy closing out the month. You’re trying to get some R&R over the Holiday weekend. Just don’t tell me you have “writer’s block.”

Most of you on this distribution list are highly motivated, well-organized professionals. I certainly wouldn’t accuse you of procrastinating. What you’re most likely suffering from is perfectionism.

Voltaire, the renowned French writer and activist famously said: “Perfect is the enemy of good.”

What this means is that you’re so busy striving for perfection—as you are with most other things in life—that you become your own worst enemy. Even worse, you don't notice the progress you’re making toward being a better communicator and thought influencer.

In the 140-year history of Major League Baseball, pitchers have thrown only 23 perfect games out of roughly 235,000 games contested and none since 2012. Pro golfers hit a hole-in-one about 0.04% of the time. So, what make you think you should be perfect?

I’ve been in the content game for over 25 years. I’ve never written a perfect article or blog post. If I ever do, I’ll send it to you. Sure, English is a maddeningly complex language with more exceptions to the rule than there are actually rules (kind of like the IRS tax code). So, the best thing to do is just think about the SINGLE most important thing you want your readers to learn from your communication piece. Then focus on the best way to get the message across simply, quickly and concisely.

Don’t worry about being clever. Don’t worry about stuffing your content with the right keywords or links. Just get to the point and stop clearing your throat when you write. If you find yourself freezing up at the keyboard, step away from your desk and try another way of composing your thoughts.

Take out a legal pad and pencil (not a pen) and scribble away on your favorite deck chair. Or, you could dictate your thoughts into the voice recorder of your smartphone while hiking or walking the dog. Or you could try composing on your iPad while out at the beach. Anything to get your subconscious from thinking: “I’m stuck at my desk again staring into a blank screen -- and I have nothing to say. Oy!”

Understanding the underlying causes can help writers find effective strategies to overcome or prevent writer's block. Here are some of the other mental minefields that derail accomplished professionals:

1. Fear of Failure or Criticism: The fear of producing subpar work or receiving negative feedback can hinder the creative process. This fear can create self-imposed barriers that prevent writers from freely expressing themselves.
2. Overwhelming Expectations: External expectations, such as meeting deadlines or fulfilling certain requirements, can become overwhelming. The pressure to deliver can result in stress and mental blocks.
3. Self-Doubt: Doubting one's abilities or questioning the value of their work can impede the writing process. Self-doubt can make it difficult to generate ideas or find confidence in one's writing.
4. Perceived Lack of Time: Feeling overwhelmed by other responsibilities or perceiving a lack of time can create a mental block. The sense of not having enough time can hinder focus and creativity.
5. Distractions: Noise, interruptions, or a cluttered environment can disrupt the writing flow. External stimuli can divert attention and hinder concentration.
6. Lack of Structure or Direction: Uncertainty about the structure or direction of a piece of writing can create confusion and make it difficult to proceed. Without a clear roadmap, writers may feel stuck or unsure of how to continue

How many of these mental barriers sound like you?
Here are some additional tips from breaking through your perceived writer’s block:

1.       Free-write: Set aside a specific time to write without any constraints or judgment. Write continuously for a set period, allowing your thoughts to flow freely. This can help break through the initial resistance and stimulate creativity. Don’t worry, your first draft is supposed to suck.

2.       Outline: Create an outline or structure for your writing project before diving into the actual writing. Having a roadmap can give you a clear direction and make it easier to start and continue writing.

3.       Set realistic goals and deadlines: Break your writing project into smaller, manageable tasks and set realistic goals and deadlines for each one. This can help you stay focused and motivated, as well as give you a sense of progress.

4.       Eliminate distractions: Turn off notifications on your phone, close unnecessary tabs on your computer, and create a dedicated writing space that is free from interruptions.

5.       Write at your most productive time: This is my personal favorite. Pay attention to your natural energy and productivity patterns. Some people are more productive in the morning, while others find their creative flow in the evening. Schedule your writing sessions during your most productive time of day.

6.       Take breaks: Take regular breaks during your writing sessions to relax and recharge. Engage in activities you enjoy, such as reading, listening to music, or practicing mindfulness. Don’t try to push your way through a mental block. Most people can’t.

7.       Seek inspiration: Read books, articles, or blogs related to your topic or genre. Surround yourself with creative works that inspire you. Attend writing workshops, conferences, or join writing groups to connect with other writers and gain fresh perspectives.

Conclusion

Screenwriter and TV producer John Rogers may have said it best: "You can't think yourself out of a writing block; you have to write yourself out of a thinking block." Contact me any time for my tips and inspiration.

 

#practice management, #writersblock, #effectivewriting