If there’s one piece of writing advice I hear more than anything else, it’s that to become the best writer you can be, you have to write every day. To improve your work, you have to buckle down, focus, drown out distractions, put your butt in the chair, and just write — every single day. Do whatever you can do to keep yourself accountable. But what happens when you hit a block? Not just a small hurdle in what to do next, but a real Grand Canyon-sized crevasse that seems impassable? What happens when you’ve run out of water, and it feels like you’re smack dab in the middle of the desert?
It’s time to refill the well.
Read something new!
When I was younger, I used to go through what I called a rotation of Writing Seasons and Reading Seasons. I’d be writing a piece, and gradually accumulate a “to be read” pile of books or list of titles, but I wouldn’t have the brain space to stop what I was writing to read something. Once the draft or the piece was done, I’d take a break to read one (or several) of the books on the TBR pile. This would usually fire me up to start writing again, and the cycle continues.
Nowadays I find I can read new things and write my projects at the same time, but I have to pick and choose what books I do read while I’m working. I try to pick something to refresh my mind and engage different parts of my imagination. Read inside your genre, of course, learn what works and who’s succeeding, but definitely take the time to read outside your genre too! Some of the biggest lessons I’ve learned have come from reading authors and works in other genres than the ones I’m working closely with. There’s always something new to learn, and you get to enjoy new stories along the way.
Take a hike!
Okay, maybe not a literal hike, depending on the time of year, where you live, and your physical ability and comfort levels. But certainly, take an opportunity to (safely) get out of your own regular routine to experience some fresh air, sunshine, and a new view. Whether it’s enjoying the local public park, conquering a literal mountain, or having a day at a beach or lake, many people find the natural world to inspire and invigorate the creative brain.
If the outdoors is not your forté, try visiting a museum, historical site, or window shopping. Antique malls are particularly good for jumpstarting my story-brain.
Check in with yourself!
Sometimes a story gets stuck because we aren’t focusing on what it needs us to focus on. Similarly, our minds and bodies can get stuck if we aren’t hydrating, feeding ourselves properly, stretching out the kinks in our necks and backs while we’re hunched at the computer. Do a quick (or slow!) scan of yourself— what do you need right here, right now? A shower or bath? A new cup of tea or some water? A meal with actual protein in it? A few minutes to just stretch or relax your tense muscles? A fun night off by yourself or with family?
Take a little bit away from your workspace to analyze how you’re feeling physically and emotionally, and try to do something to fill those needs. Refresh and refuel yourself!
Daydream!
This is one of my favorite methods of clearing the canvas and realigning my motivation with my to-do list. From childhood to adulthood, daydreaming is a basic human function, in my opinion. As writers, we sure know how to turn that up to 11 when we want to.
Sometimes I will turn off the computer, switch to a notebook and pen, and just start jotting things down: images, phrases, notes, and outline tidbits. I might sketch an outfit or a scene layout. Sometimes, I just put on my headphones and listen — either to a playlist I’ve built specifically for my characters or setting, or to a recommended album on Spotify that might have the right mood or texture for the piece I’m working on. Let the music take you to your mind’s eye of what a scene looks and feels like. Let a song inspire you: if your story was the music video for the song, what would be happening? Take some time away from your work in progress to dream, and you’ll surprise yourself with what you manage to do next.
Phyllis McKinley
Good advice, Alyson! Fill.Deplete.Repeat.
Thank you.
Phyllis
Alyson Grauer
You’re welcome Phyllis. I hope you find new and comforting ways to renew your work!
Niki Kantzios
Thanks for a reminder we hard-driving types tend to forget. Since going somewhere physically is off the plate at the moment, I like to read French comic books to shake out my brain!
Alyson Grauer
French comic books sounds like an awesome brain-exercise! J’aime bien cette idée!
Rob McCabe
Hey Alyson. Thanks so much for this insightful article. Lately, I have been so depressed due to this Covid plague, I haven’t had the will to write, but taking some me time is extremely important, no, majorly important for !y physical well-being. I do go outside and walk and/or bike to get back on focus.
Alyson Grauer
Being outside can be so valuable to our brain chemistry as well as our physical well being. It’s really important – especially NOW with everything going on. Remember on the days that are hardest that you’re doing your best, and take care of yourself before you try to dive back into the word mines!