Guest Post: Seven Fun Ways to Defeat Writer's Block

BookZone welcomes Bindiya Schaefer, who is the author of Corinth 2642 AD. In her article she shares ways that writers can defeat writer's block.  

Seven Fun Ways to Defeat Writer's Block

by Bindiya Schaefer

Do you find yourself staring at a blank page day in and day out? Or worse, writing and rewriting the same thing over and over again until your brain feels like mush? If the answer is yes, then I'm sorry to inform you that the situation is dire. You, my fellow writer, have writer's block: a stubborn, unyielding condition that preys on creativity.

Fret not. I, too, have been plagued by writer's block. I have often felt my mind wandering away, distracted by my cute dog, the laundry list of things that need to be done, the laundry, and that shiny thing in the corner of my eye. But after many tears and beers, I have found seven foolproof ways to rediscover the creative flow.

Let's dive in.

1. Sweat it out: Reset your tired brain with some movement. Going for a hike, a run, or even practicing yoga reduces anxiety and increases concentration. And hey, if that doesn't work, do what I do and take your frustrations out on a punching bag.
2. Get a change of scenery: Put your pen and paper away. Pack your bags. Go somewhere, anywhere. You'll be amazed what an hour or two away from your desk can do for your mind.
3. Eavesdropping: This one is frowned upon, but, gosh, is it fun. Especially when people are utterly oblivious to their surroundings and are sharing the most wonderfully bizarre information. This, fellow writer, is fodder for your page. Use it wisely.
4. Sleep: I don't know who needs to hear this, but naps are part of the creative process. Grab a big cozy blanket and allow your subconscious to work through plot holes while your body rests.
5. Put your headphones on and tune out the world: Sit down, close your eyes and just listen to the lyrics, the rhythm, and the voices. Take note of your emotions and the mental images they evoke.
6. Read: Revisit your favorite book or perhaps the one that inspired you to become a writer. Soak in the words and remember why you fell in love with it in the first place.
7. Keep writing: Redirect your attention and try writing something new. Better yet, write for yourself but try to write every day because if you wait for inspiration to strike, you may be waiting forever.