A good writer might have a selection of the following things on their desk: a dictionary, some newspapers and magazines, a reporter’s notepad.
Plus, some scrunched up bits of paper, a row of dirty coffee mugs, pages of intricate doodles…
Sometimes you just get stuck. You might know what you want to say, but find it just won’t transfer from your head to the keyboard.
Don’t be disheartened if the words dry up.
Here are a few tips to help you beat the block:
- Start with a plan or structure. Once you have this, the pressure is off and you can get started.
- Just write. Get all your random thoughts down on paper or saved on screen.
- Remember, there’s no need to start at the beginning. You can re-shape it later.
- And if you don’t get inspired along the way, stop. Step away from the computer.
- Do something else. Anything. Even a trip to the local shop can help move things along.
- Try a change of scenery. Move to a meeting room or take your laptop to a coffee shop.
- Switch from the keyboard to a pad and paper. Sometimes writing things down, or even doodling, will get your brain whirring again.
- If your brain is refusing to play ball, borrow someone else’s. Brainstorm ideas with colleagues, especially if you’re trying to think of headlines or clever captions.
- Reward yourself. If you write a few paragraphs, you can probably justify stopping for a cup of tea and a biscuit.