In case you haven’t figured it out yet — which I certainly hope you have, as I blabber about it constantly — I make my living as a freelance writer. This means I spend pretty much all day, everyday writing. Gasp!

So, I can testify that writer’s block is the absolute worst. Luckily, it’s not something I experience too often. But, when it hits, it hits hard.

What exactly is writer’s block? Well, it’s exactly what it sounds like. You’re unable to think of anything to write, or you can’t figure out how to proceed with a writing project that you’ve already started. Basically, you’re totally useless. It’s about as much fun as it sounds.

Since I know that most of you are bloggers — and bloggers are definitely writers — I figured I’d share a few of the tips I use to move past writer’s block. None of them involve watching The Real Housewives of Orange County marathons while eating ice cream sandwiches and crying. Even though that’s what I’m most tempted to do when writer’s block strikes…

TIPS FOR MOVING PAST WRITER’S BLOCK

1. Work on something else.

Sometimes you just need something to refocus your energy. So, don’t be afraid to change gears and switch projects for a little bit. Just because you have writer’s block for one piece doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t write anything. You could just be stuck on that one particular thing. Take some time to work on something completely different for a bit to give your brain a little break from what’s frustrating you.

2. Take a break.

Most of the time when I experience writer’s block, it’s because I’m burnt out and feel like I simply can’t write one more word. When this happens, I like to give myself a well-deserved break. Whether this means making a cup of tea and reading a few pages of a book or taking Bert on a quick stroll around the neighborhood, a brief break from my desk does my brain a lot of good!

3. Get up and stretch.

I’m sure you can relate to this, but my muscles can get incredibly cramped from sitting at my desk all day. This not only makes me feel achey and sore, but it can also contribute to a general feeling of being frustrated and uninspired. Sometimes I’ll take a five minute break to get up from my desk chair and literally stretch out. A few shoulder and neck rolls and some deep breathing is often just what the doctor ordered. Go ahead and check out these stretches you can do right at your desk, if you’re interested!

4. Write in a journal.

Like I said, just because you have writer’s block doesn’t mean you can’t write anything. And, if you’re anything like me, you’ll never have an issue rambling on about your personal life. So, grab a journal and just start writing down your thoughts. Starting to get the words to flow from your brain to paper will get you in the right mindset to tackle that project that has you stuck!

5. Get some fresh air.

I’m a firm believer that a good dose of fresh air works wonders for the brain cells. Head outside and just take in some fresh air for a few minutes. I’m willing to bet you’ll come back to your desk feeling motivated and recharged.

6. Just start writing.

There are times when you just need to write through a writer’s block, no matter how challenging it seems. So, focus on your project and write something. Write anything. Just get started. It doesn’t matter how crappy it is or how much word vomit you need to go back and clean up. A start is really all you need to get rolling.

What tips do you use to move past writer’s block for your work or your blog? I’m always looking for new advice!

Until next time!