7 Tips and Games for Battling Writer's Block

OK, it's time to sit down at the computer or your pad of paper and create a masterpiece. Right?

Not that easy!

I used to get stuck on the idea of creating incredible artwork every single day. Then, a day would come when I painted awful. Frustration would tug at me, and I would think I had lost my creative talent.

Now that I have picked up writing, the same thing sometimes happens.

I thought, "Today will be the day I write something so amazing; it will be an internet success!"

OK, OK, that is the naive, hopeful creator in me who thinks my creations will be amazing.

But on those days when nothing happens to me, my mind is like an empty ghost town with tumbleweeds blowing in the wind.

How do I change the mood?

Here are a few ideas that have helped me when I'm struggling with writer's block:

1. Music

I listen to a lot of movie soundtracks. When I listen to music for writing, I choose soundtracks that fit my mood.

It could be Top Gun, Inception, or Aquaman- it depends. Then I listen to it for a bit and start writing down words that pop into my head as the music plays. With those words, I find a prompt that will spur me to write more.

2. Youtube

YouTube has a tremendous amount of superb live screensavers. I use these to look for a scene that fits my mood: a fireplace in a cabin, a raging snowstorm, a tropical paradise, or a romantic beach scene. I leave the scene playing out, paying attention to the details, sounds, and emotions that stir me.

I began to write using word prompts that could work with the live screensaver. This technique helps me develop the five senses when writing a story or poem.

3. Images

I use images to help formulate a word prompt within the picture to help me start developing a story. Like with the YouTube screensavers, I'll use word prompts that could connect with the photo, and that visual image allows my mind to start formulating a story.

4. Walking

Other times, when things are not working out, I take myself away from the desk and walk. I listen to music or the sounds around me and take deep breaths.

Exercise or physical activity helps reduce the effects of stress and anxiety that you may be feeling because you can't produce anything on paper.

You will feel better; when you're feeling good, you can start writing something.

5. Quotes

I enjoy reading quotes; sometimes, having quotes can get you into a thoughtful mood. Pick a book, newspaper, or magazine and read for a bit. It will put you in the right mood to see if you can become creative.

6. Word Prompts

There are a host of word prompts out there. There are so many that I need help to pick the right one. So I make it out of a game.

1. Pick ten words from writing prompt sites.
2. Write down the words on separate scraps of paper.
3. Fold them up, then toss them in the air.
4. Choose three folded papers.
5. Use these as your word prompts for your writing warm-up.

7. Word Association

With this game of connecting ideas, feelings, and objects to words, I use the mind-mapping illustration below. Again, I create a spider web that comes into my head by using a word prompt. Setting the timer to five minutes, I begin to write. I don't question myself as I do this. When the timer is up, I study my mind map and see if potential stories or poems unfold.

Ultimately, we're trying to have fun here; writing will only come when we get excited and feel passionate about something, so these are some of my ways to keep it fun. Keep writing, and good luck with your journey!