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Crush Writer's Block with These 3 Newbie Techniques

Stop overthinking…start writing…here's how

By Rick MartinezPublished 2 years ago 3 min read
Via Depositphotos

Writer's block is a beast. 

It paralyzes even the most passionate storytellers. You've got a story to tell - a memoir, a tale of triumph over adversity - but the words just won't come. It's frustrating, and it feels like you're wasting your time. Well, it's time to shake things up and get those words flowing. 

Here are three simple yet insanely effective ways to crush writer's block and unleash your inner author.

Write Like You're Explaining to a Child

Imagine you're explaining your story to a curious eight-year-old. 

Kids ask the most straightforward questions, and they need clear, simple answers. This exercise forces you to strip away all the complex jargon and get to the heart of your story.

When you explain your topic to a child, you're naturally simplifying your language and breaking down concepts. For instance, if you're writing about how you overcame a significant challenge, think about how you'd explain it to a young kid. You wouldn't dive into the intricate details; you'd start with the big picture, then fill in the blanks with simple, concrete details.

Here's what to do next: Sit down and write a few paragraphs as if you're talking to a child. Describe the main events, the emotions, and the lessons learned. Don't worry about making it perfect. The goal is to make it simple and clear. 

You'll be surprised at how this exercise can clarify your thoughts and help the words start flowing.

Write with Your Non-Dominant Hand

This technique might sound strange, but it's a game-changer. 

Writing with your non-dominant hand forces your brain to work in a different way. It disrupts your usual thought patterns and sparks creativity.

Start by grabbing a pen and paper. Yes, go old school on this one. Now, use your non-dominant hand to write a sentence or two about your story. It will feel awkward and slow, but that's the point. This awkwardness engages different parts of your brain, often leading to new ideas and perspectives.

For example, if you normally write with your right hand, switch to your left. Write down a few key points of your story or a brief outline. The process will be slow, but as you struggle with the mechanics of writing, you'll find that new ideas and insights start to emerge. It's like unlocking a different part of your creativity that you didn't know existed.

Here's what to do next: Set aside 10 minutes each day to write with your non-dominant hand. Focus on different parts of your story each time. This exercise not only helps with creativity but also builds your patience and persistence - key qualities for any writer.

Dictate Your Thoughts

Typing can sometimes be a barrier to your natural flow of thoughts. 

Speaking, on the other hand, can be more fluid and expressive. Dictating your thoughts allows you to capture the natural rhythm and tone of your voice, making your writing more engaging and authentic.

Here's what to do next: Use a voice recorder or a dictation app on your phone. Start talking about your story - describe the main events, the emotions, the lessons. Don't worry about structure or grammar. Just let the words flow. After you've finished, transcribe your recording. You'll find that this process helps you capture ideas more naturally and reduces the pressure to be perfect on the first go.

For example, if you're stuck on how to begin your memoir, start by talking about your earliest memories related to your story. Speak freely and passionately. Later, when you transcribe your recording, you'll have a raw, authentic piece of content to work with. 

This rawness can be refined, but the essence of your voice will remain, making your writing more compelling.

Embrace the Process and Keep Moving Forward

These three techniques - explaining to a child, writing with your non-dominant hand, and dictating your thoughts - are powerful tools to help you overcome writer's block. 

They force you to think differently, engage your creativity, and capture your authentic voice. Remember, the goal is to get the words flowing, not to create a perfect draft. Embrace the process, and don't be afraid to experiment.

Writer's block is tough, but it's not insurmountable. By using these techniques, you can break free from the paralysis and start telling your story. You've got a unique voice and a story that deserves to be heard. 

Don't let writer's block hold you back.

The Hidden Secret to Unleashing Your Inner Author

You've scratched the surface with these techniques, but what if there's a deeper, hidden secret to truly unlocking your potential as a writer? 

What if there's a method that can transform your writing process and take you from struggling to thriving? Stay tuned, because next time, we're diving into the ultimate strategy to unleash your inner author. You won't want to miss this.

So, take these steps, start applying them today, and get ready to crush that writer's block for good. 

Your story is waiting to be told, and with these tools, you'll be well on your way to making it happen.

Advice

About the Creator

Rick Martinez

* Professional Ghostwriter

* USA Today Bestselling Author

* Helping First-Time Authors Craft Non-Fiction Masterpieces

* Helping folks (just like you) realize their dream of writing their book

California born, Texas raised.

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