Ah, writer’s block – the dreaded nemesis of writers everywhere. You sit staring at your laptop screen or a blank page for the traditionalists among us, and your mind goes blank. After a few moments, the frustration and panic sets in. But never fear, I’ve battled this beast many times and have lived to tell the tale.

So, grab a cup of your favourite beverage, and let me share some tools and techniques that have saved my sanity more than once.

1. The magical world of brainstorming

When you hit a writing wall, brainstorming brings hope. I immediately whip out an inspiring notebook (or a napkin, or my hand, whatever’s available) and just start jotting down any and all ideas that come to mind – no matter how weird.

It doesn’t have to be perfect or even semi-interesting. Just the act of writing your ideas down can start your creative brain working again.  And you may find that your most disjointed idea leads to your best writing!  

2. The wanderlust method

Ever heard of a walking muse? It’s a thing! When I’m stuck, I take a walk. It could be around the block, in a park, or through the aisles of a supermarket (you’d be surprised how inspired you get from the chocolate aisle!)

The key is to change the scenery and get the blood flowing. Plus, eavesdropping on random conversations can be a goldmine for article ideas. Just don’t make it too obvious!

3. The ‘chatting it out’ strategy

Talking it out when you have writer’s block can work wonders. I often call a friend (preferably one who won’t hang up on me) and start rambling about what I’ve been writing.

My long-suffering friend listens to the details of my writing, and I realise that just verbalising the problem helps me see it in a new light. And occasionally, my friend’s confused expression is all the feedback I need to realise where I’ve gone wrong and what I need to fix!

4. The digital detox challenge

In the age of endless distractions, sometimes the best thing I can do is go offline. I turn off my phone, disconnect the Wi-Fi, and focus on the task at hand.

It’s amazing how much you can write when you’re not busy watching cat videos on YouTube (although, those are important too).

5. The timer trick

When writer’s block strikes, why not set a timer for 20 minutes and write non-stop until it goes off? No editing, no second-guessing, just pure, unadulterated writing. It’s a bit like a sprint for your brain – exhausting but exhilarating.

And sometimes, amidst the chaos of words, I find a gem that reignites my inspiration.

6. The research tip

If you aren’t sure how to start writing your blog, article or story, change your perspective for a moment. Doing research on the topic you’re writing about is a given, but I’ve found hanging out with Google a bit longer can help a lot.

Fill your mind with facts and interesting information about the topic and you’ll find you just can’t help writing it all down.

7. The creative cross-training tactic

Taking a break to engage in a different creative activity can kickstart your writing brain. Whether you like to paint, cook, dance, or cross-stitch (badly, like me), it’s all about switching gears and letting your brain relax.

Or why not try reading something someone else wrote? ‘The Writer’s Block: 786 Ideas to Jump-Start Your Imagination’ by Jason Rekulak is a nifty block of a book that gives plenty of suggestions on how to get writing again (complete with inspiring photographs).

8. The ‘terminator’ option

Being a copy or content writer in 2024 means you have the option to work with artificial intelligence. Online tools like ChatGPT can be extremely useful when writer’s block strikes and you need a prod to find the words again.

Copy written by AI will never be able to capture the personality and genius (not to mention, sarcasm) that human creativity possesses – but it is an important and innovative way to help you get creative and engage with your readers again. ‘The Copywriter's Toolbox: 1000 ChatGPT Prompts for Captivating and Converting Audiences’ by Nishant Tiwari,  is a great eBook resource that gives you brilliantly crafted prompts so that you only get the best from your friendly AI assistant.

9. The buddy system

Pair up with a fellow writer and share your struggles. It’s comforting to know you’re not alone in the battle against writer’s block.

You can set up writing dates, challenge each other with prompts and provide moral support (and snacks). Sometimes, a little friendly competition is all it takes to get the words flowing.

10. The reward system

I bribe myself. Yes, you heard right. I set small goals and reward myself when I reach them. Finished a paragraph? Time for a piece of chocolate. Wrote 500 words? Fifteen minutes of cat video indulgence. It’s all about the small victories.

11. The ‘sleep-on-it’ approach

Never underestimate the power of a good night’s sleep. When I’m really stuck, I stop and give my brain a rest. More often than not, I wake up with fresh ideas or a new perspective on how to write. Plus, who doesn’t love an excuse for a nap?

12. Embracing imperfection

Lastly, I remind myself that it’s okay to write badly. The first draft is supposed to be rough. It’s more important to get the ideas down than to get them perfect. I can always edit a bad page, but I can’t edit a blank one!

So remember, next time writer’s block comes knocking, try some of these tools and techniques.

Remember, every writer’s journey is unique, so what works for me might not work for you. The key is to keep experimenting and find what ignites your creativity. And above all, don’t forget to have fun with it. Happy writing!