by Susan Fenn

Created on: October 27, 2009   Last Updated: November 12, 2009

Finding a cure for writer's block that works for you is as simple as putting your mind to it. From small steps to question and answer session, there are many writing opportunities to beat the block.

1. Small Steps

When fighting writer's block the smallest steps can achieve the most. Put down the paper and pen or close the laptop lid and walk away. Do the dishes, pick up a book, play with your dog, cat, bird or feed the fish. Visit the mall and people watch, see if you can find any of your characters quirks or mannerisms in the people that pass. Whatever you decide, taking a small step away from your direct dilemma you will take the pressure off of your project and leave your mind feeling refreshed.

2. Change of scenery

If you normally write at home try going to a coffee shop, a restaurant, or the library. If you normally write at any of the above try writing at your house. The change in background has the potential of stimulating your creativity and expanding your horizons (especially at a coffee shop or library).

3. Start in the middle or end at the beginning

If you're starting your novel, short story, poem, etc. and are stuck pick the part that motivated you to begin with and write about that. For example, if you wanted to write about butterflies and their transformation you could write the change in reverse. Or start with the feeling of the caterpillar in the cocoon. If that doesn't break it, try to write the end, where the butterfly is flying away experiencing its new life. The point is you're still writing, you're still progressing in your story, and you can quiet the inner critic.

4. Take a hike

Literally. Visit the park, take a day hike, and walk through a garden. Reconnecting with nature can soothe and relax while opening your mind to different ideas. Without thinking about your writing, your subconscious mind can work on the deeper of issues that stopped the flow.

5. Breathing deep

Meditation allows your brain and body to recharge. Set the mood for relaxation by lighting a few candles, pile fluffy, soft pillows around you and "shake" off the stress and aggravations of everyday life. Lie or sit down in a comfortable position and close your eyes. Take three deep breaths, breathing from your diaphragm, and clear your mind.

6. Write it out

If you're stuck on a particular scene try to place the character somewhere else. Write a mock interview between you and your character. Ask your character questions about their past or how they feel about the antagonist or the secondary characters and answer base on the main character's personality. Type a scene where the character enters your world. Have them meet your best friend, or set the scene in a public "real world" place, like a mall.

When writer's block attacks don't let your inner voice tell you that the "well has dried up". There are creative ideas still in your mind, just give them time to come to the surface. Walk away, write it out, meditate, take a day hike, change your scenery, or start at a different point in your story. Whatever you decide is sure to cure your writers block.

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