There are many different forms of writer’s block.

Often we struggle with a sentence or word, moving it around in a paragraph and trying different ways to make it work.

Sometimes we’re bursting to get an idea down on paper; it seems like the beginning of a great story, then the flow of writing abruptly stops.

It’s all due to that pesky teaser of the muse – “writer’s block”!

Decades of writers have suggested methods for battling the “teaser”.  I feel the best line of defence is – don’t despair and don’t give in.

When a word or sentence doesn’t work and you just can’t think of an alternative, try leaving it out.  “Less” is often better than “more”.

If you have a great idea, put it down on paper immediately and if the writing flow stops, leave it for a while (even a day or so if necessary), go for a walk, spend time with your family, read a book or watch a movie, and come back to it later. 

The last thing you should do is panic!  I know from experience that usually when I return to the piece, refreshed, everything starts to fall into place.

Walking, jogging or other types of exercise not only takes away the stress of the day, but activity also stimulates the brain cells.  I’ve had many a great idea while walking.  In fact, while in the middle of my Writer’s Digest Novel Writing Course, I carried a small cassette recorder in my waist belt when striding down the Cable Beach Strip and whipped it out every time I thought up some new characterization, dialogue or plot twist.

Tips to beat the pesky writer’s block:

*Put aside daily segments of time to write.

*Switch off the radio or television and just think, ponder, meditate…..

*Look through your “Ideas” file or journals for inspiration.

*Relax and listen to music.

*Sit in a public place and “people watch”.  Take in the sounds, smells and conversation around you.

*Browse around a book store or library.

*Join a writers’ group or online forum and discuss your stumbling blocks with other writers, who are usually eager to come up with suggestions.

*If you’re surrounded by “clutter”, get rid of it.  A “cluttered mind is not a productive mind” (see Time Management section).

*Consider whether what you’re writing is too biographical (unless it is a biography!).  You may be subconsciously worrying that a friend or family member might recognize himself or you.  If so, work on changing the background, characters and circumstances even more.

*Sometimes you may be too “close” to the topic.  Step back and look objectively at what you’re trying to get across to your reader.

I guess that’s a rap.  I just can’t think of another thing to say.  I must have “writer’s block”!