by Carl Hose

Created on: October 27, 2009

Writer's block.

Those two words are the dreaded words a writer never wants to hear. We thrive on our ability to write. Imagine never having trouble finding words, then one day you sit down at your computer and nothing comes. Your mind and the page in your word processor have something in common-both are blank. When you make a living with words, this can be devastating.

The good news is, there are many ways to get around this block.

The first thing you should do is not think about it. The harder you think about the fact that you can't find words, the less likely you will be to find words. Don't put pressure on yourself.

Consider reading a book. Sometimes simply taking the time out to read will fire your imagination. Don't read like a writer, analyzing the words and sentences another writer writes. Read for pleasure. Let the book absorb your thoughts.

Get out a notebook or journal and write about anything that comes to mind, even if it seems to be nonsense. Nonsense is okay. Sometimes you can unearth something valuable from the nonsensical thoughts that spill onto your paper.

Take a walk. While you're out, look around. Watch people. Imagine their lives. Try to give them personalities. Make up little stories about the people you see. This is a good way to get your creative juices flowing again.

Consider taking a day off. Sometimes you just need to get away from something to gain a fresh perspective. Writers enjoy what they do and often don't think of it as a job. The truth is, writing is work. Give yourself a vacation, even if it is only for a day.

Watch a movie. The visual activity can be inspiring, and besides, watching a good movie is enjoyable. Invite your family or friends to watch the movie with you, and when it's over, discuss your thoughts about the quality of the movie. What did you think about it? Was it a good story? Did the actors do a good job? Sometimes just discussing the creative aspects of something can spark your own creativity.

And for the bonus tip, take a nap. Sometimes a nap is all you need. Rest your eyes, if you like. While you're drifting to sleep, think about what you want to write. Those moments right before you doze off, when your mind is completely at ease, can be an open door for creative ideas. Go to sleep. Good, viable ideas will be there when you wake up.

Learn more about this author, Carl Hose.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.