Everyone who writes will eventually have difficulty putting thoughts on paper. This is commonly referred to as “writer’s block." While there are no silver bullets or magic pills, below are some simple techniques to work your way past this.



1. Take a break.

If you find yourself staring at your computer or notepad and nothing is happening, take a break. This might be as simple as getting a drink of water or going outside for a few minutes of fresh air. It may also mean getting a good night’s sleep so that you can start fresh in the morning.

Getting away from the work, even for a short time, is a great way to clear your mind and gain perspective.

2. Have a firm deadline.

A firm deadline is a great way to work through challenges. If you are writing a business project, the deadline may have been set for you. Some people think of deadlines as enemies, but this is a mistake. Think of the deadline as a friend. It lets you know when you will be done and won’t have to work on the project again. Deadlines can be very liberating.

This works especially well for me when I write for someone else. With a firm deadline set, I won’t let anything get in the way of creating the product I promised. If I have trouble writing, I think of how much more difficult it would be to tell a client I wasn’t able to get the work done.

This also works on my own projects. Having a deadline and meeting it lets me know I am completing the project. Once I have met the deadline, I can also take time off without feeling guilty.

3. Have a set writing time.

An established routine creates an atmosphere that will help your writing. I write at the same time every day. If I have been hired to write for someone, I write from 8:00 a.m. until noon, take an hour for lunch, and then write from 1:00 until 5:00 p.m. I do this Monday through Friday. This routine keeps me focused and productive.

You don’t necessarily have to use these hours, but set a specific time to write each day, even if it’s only for one hour. You’ll notice a big improvement when you have this regularity.

4. Write about anything.

This may be the most effective method. If you can’t write what you want, sit down and just write. Don’t worry about the topic, grammar or punctuation. You could write about how frustrated you are, why you hate writing, or even what an idiot you think I am for making these suggestions. Just pick something and run with it.

Once you put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard), you’ll eventually be able to write about anything. The important thing is to start the process by putting words onto paper.

The next time you have trouble writing, don’t panic. Use these simple techniques and you’ll soon be writing with ease.

Walter Jenkins is a professional writer and speaker. Learn more about him by visiting www.walterbjenkins.com.