Overcoming Writer’s Block with Scribbles

Staring at a blank page in despair?

Or, maybe you’re able to ‘technically’ write some word onto the page…but they’re awful, uninspired and leave you feeling about as creative as a wet sponge.

It sounds like you have a classic case of writer’s block – fortunately Scribble’s has a cure (or at least some really helpful suggestions!).

Essentially writer’s block is an evil combination of perfectionism, self-doubt and procrastination. We’re going to look at why it happens, and how to overcome all the drama so you can get back to writing.

Seeking perfection may sound like a pretty ambitious and wholesome goal, but it’s actually the ultimate dream killer – not only when it comes to writing books, but for almost any worthwhile endeavour. It’s not possible to be perfect, no writer hashes out their greatest work first time without hesitation.

Abandon perfection and start writing – the closest you can come to ‘perfect’ is after the second draft and editing process, so don’t give up before you even get there.

Equally, comparing your own unique voice and manuscript to someone else is fruitless and as soul-crushing as perfectionism. Whilst your writing may never be 100% perfect (because that’s impossible) – it can be authentic. Cultivate that instead.

The constant interruptions of modern life hinder our creativity…if we let them. Turn off your phone and let your mind wander.

Scribbles Top Tips for Overcoming Writers Block:

Start Writing…

Yes, I know you’re feeling stuck.

I know it feels hard…and maybe a bit pointless.

That is perfectionism talking.

This is your permission to write any old rubbish – you might actually be surprised.

For every beautifully finished novel that the author is proud of, there is a backstory filled with discarded pages, entirely rewritten scenes, abandoned manuscripts and deleted characters.

Being a writer is a self-appointed adventure – the only price for admission, is that you actually write.

Try a Different Angle…

If you can’t move forward perhaps it’s time to look at things slightly differently.

We all have a backstory – it’s what makes us who we are, it influences our decisions and reactions.

Your characters are no different.

If you find yourself at an impasse with your main characters, perhaps it’s time to give them a bit more soul.

The backstory doesn’t have to be included in the pages of your story, at least not in its entirety, but you do need to know what makes your characters tick – it’s how you can write effectively from a fictional person’s perspective…by building their perspective.

Draft out their origin story, family, friends, first love, fashion sense, hopes and fears – bring your characters to life and get unstuck!

Visualise…

If trying to write is leaving you stressed out – take a break, and visualise instead.

Consider the story you are trying to tell, the characters, style, location and emotions. Head over to Pinterest (or any good stock photo library) and curate some images that reflect what you cannot write.

Lose yourself in the imagery and allow yourself to feel inspired again without the pressure to write.

The images can provide a wonderful new reference on which to continue your story afresh.

It’s important to remember that writer’s block is not a life-long condition – though we all suffer from time to time, we also overcome.

Scribbles works with both traditional and self-published authors to edit, critique, review and promote their books – check out our author services here!