Writers’ block is that frustrating, paralysing feeling you get when the words just don’t hit the page. Whether you’re staring at a blank page or stuck halfway through a draft, it’s a struggle every writer has experienced. And whilst it can feel exceptionally personal, you’re far from alone – even the most prolific writers hit creative walls. The good news? Writer’s block isn’t permanent, and it is possible to overcome. Today at What We Writing, we’re exploring tried and tested strategies to overcome writer’s block – the sort that actually works in the real world, not just in theory. Whether you’re a seasoned novelist or a casual journaler, these practical tips will help you break through the fog, recapture the creative spark, and get back to writing with confidence.
What Is Writer’s Block (And Why Does It Happen)?
Writer’s block is the creative standstill that happens when you want to write but can’t. It often feels like all your ideas have vanished, your motivation has evaporated, and every sentence you conjure sounds wrong the moment it hits the page. It’s a feeling that has the potential to last for hours, days, or potentially even longer, and often hits without warning.
So, why does writer’s block happen? The causes can differ, but some of the most common reasons are:
- Fear of failure or not being “good enough”
- Perfectionism – waiting for the perfect sentence before writing anything
- Burnout from overworking or a lack of rest
- Lack of direction or clarity about what is next up in your project
- External pressures such as deadlines, expectations or comparisons with others
Personally, there are times when a blank document has felt more soul-crushing than a final exam. Sometimes it was stress, but the most common feeling was a sort of impostor syndrome, that my paragraphs weren’t coming together with the quality I wanted. Understanding the why behind the block is often the first step in learning how to break through it.
Strategies To Overcome Writer’s Block
If you’ve found yourself wrestling with writer’s block, don’t worry – there are ways forward. Here are some proven strategies to overcome writer’s block that can help you reignite your creativity and reestablish your writing momentum.
1. Set Small, Achievable Writing Goals
When you’re blocked, large goals can feel overwhelming. Instead of aiming for 1,000 words, try writing 100 words or one paragraph. Small wins build confidence and create momentum. Set a timer for 10 minutes and get started – progression beats perfection every time.
2. Try Freewriting or Timed Writing Sprints
One useful way to get over writer’s block is freewriting: writing nonstop for a set time without editing or worrying about whether it makes sense or not. Set a timer for 5-15 minutes and let your thoughts flow out. You may be surprised what lands on the page when your inner critic steps back.
3. Change Your Writing Environment
Sometimes your surroundings contribute to your writer’s block. Try moving to a different location – a different room, a cafe, or even outside (I’m a big fan of writing in a park when the weather allows)! A fresh space can shift your mindset and stimulate creativity, helping you return to your project with a new perspective.
4. Read Something Inspiring
Reading a favourite book or a few pages from an author you admire can reignite your love for words. Inspiration is so often one of the best remedies for writer’s block, and reading reminds your brain what good writing sounds like.
5. Take a Break (Seriously)
It may sound strange, but sometimes stepping away from your writing is the most productive option. Go for a walk, take a nap, or do something entirely different. Giving your mind space to rest clears creative blocks more efficiently than simply grinding through and forcing it.
6. Use Writing Prompts
When you’re stuck for ideas, writing prompts can be a handy starting point. Try looking online for prompts, or create your own based on “What if?” scenarios. Better still, check out all the best writing prompts for your preferred genres right here at xxx! Prompts take the pressure off and give your creativity room to play.
7. Reconnect With Your “Why”
Think back to why you began writing in the first place. Was it to tell a specific story? To express something personal? Reconnecting with that original motivation can give your writing purpose again – and help you push through the block.
8. Stop Editing While You Write
Trying to write and edit at the same time is a bit like trying to drive with the handbrake on. Give yourself permission to write messy first drafts. You can (and absolutely should) revise later – but to beat writer’s block, focus on getting something on the page first.
What Not To Do When You’re Blocked
When you’re deep in a creative black hole, it’s tempting to fall into habits that actually make matters worse. Here are a couple of things to avoid if you’re attempting to get over writer’s block – they may appear harmless, but they all have the potential to seriously slow your progress.
Don’t Beat Yourself Up
One of the worst things you can do during a writing slump is turn against yourself. Self-criticism kills creativity. Remember: writer’s block isn’t a personal failure – it’s a common part of the process. Show yourself the same level of patience you would extend to another writer.
Don’t Wait for Inspiration to Appear Magically
If you’re sitting around waiting for inspiration to hit like a bolt from the blue, you may be waiting a while. Writing breeds inspiration far more frequently than inspiration breeds writing. Even a few clumsy sentences can get the wheels turning again.
Check Out Our Guide To Writing Daily vs Writing When Inspired
Don’t Compare Yourself to Others
Scrolling through social media or reading about someone else’s word count success story can send you into a spiral. Every writer has their dry spells, they’re just rarely posting about them. Focus on your own journey, not someone else’s tailored highlight reel.
Don’t Edit Instead of Writing
When you’re stuck, one of the easiest traps to fall into is endlessly tweaking your previous work instead of crafting something new. While some revision can be good, obsessively editing can disguise itself as productivity, all while avoiding the real challenge: moving forward.
Don’t Force It When You’re Burned Out
Pushing through exhaustion may work in the short-term, but in the long run it only leads to deeper creative fatigue. If your block is coming from burnout, what you may need is more rest – not another mad writing sprint.
Tools and Resources That Can Help
Sometimes, the right tools can give you that extra nudge you need to beat writer’s block and get back into the creative groove. Whether you need help focusing, staying motivated, or fuelling inspiration, these resources can make a huge difference.
Focus and Distraction-Free Writing
- FocusWriter: A minimalist writing app that blocks out distractions so that you can concentrate strictly on your words.
- Cold Turkey: Blocks websites, apps, and even your entire internet connection to help you stay focused while writing.
- Pomofocus (based on the Pomodoro Technique): Helps you break writing sessions into focused 25-minute sprints with short breaks in between – ideal for staying productive without being burnt out.
Idea Generators and Prompts
- Reedsy Writing Prompts: A massive library of prompts to help get the ideas going.
- Story Shack’s Prompt Generator: Generates random writing prompts, including genres and characters.
- Notebook.ai (for world-building): Helpful for writers developing characters, worlds, and plots – particularly useful when you’re blocked thanks to a lack of direction.
Motivation and Progress Tracking
- 4theWords: Gamifies writing by turning word counts into battles and quests.
- Written? Kitten!: Rewards you with a new kitten image for every set of numbers written (surprisingly motivating!)
- Pacemaker Planner: Allows you to set writing goals and track progress over time – great for building momentum after a block.
These tools to beat writer’s block aren’t magic fixes, but they can support your writing process and help design a routine that works for you. Test a few and see which ones fits your way of writing the best.
Check Out The Best Writing Routines
Wrap Up
Writer’s block may feel overwhelming, but it is temporary, and you’re not alone. Every writer encounters it at some point, whether they’re working on their first short story or their tenth full-length novel. The good news? There are ways to move past it.
Try just one or two of the strategies we’ve covered in this guide – whether it’s freewriting, changing your environment, or using a writing prompt. Small steps can create big momentum. Be kind to yourself, and remember: progress is always more important than perfection.
What’s helped you overcome writer’s block? Share your favourite strategies in the comments below – you never know who else they might help!
FAQs
What’s the Best Way to Overcome Writer’s Block Fast?
The fastest way to overcome writer’s block is to start writing without judgment – even if it’s messy. Freewriting, timed sprints, or using a writing prompt can quickly break the mental barrier and get your ideas flowing again.
Can Journaling Help with Writer’s Block?
Yes! Journaling can be a super low-pressure way of clearing your mind and reconnecting with your creativity. It helps you to process thoughts, reduce stress, and often leads to unexpected inspiration for other writing projects.
Check Out How Art, Movies And Music Can Provide Writing Inspiration
Is Writer’s Block Real or Just a Myth?
Writer’s block is very real – it’s a psychological barrier most writers encounter, often triggered by perfectionism, fear or burnout. Whilst it isn’t a medical condition, it can feel just as frustrating and paralysing, which is why practical strategies for overcoming it are so vital.
How Long Does Writer’s Block Usually Last?
There’s no fixed timeline – it can last for a few hours or extend into weeks. The key is to identify the root cause (i.e. stress, lack of direction) and gently experiment with strategies to move past it.
Can Changing My Environment Really Help?
Definitely. A new environment – even just moving to another room or to the local coffee shop can reset your mindset and spark fresh ideas. Sometimes, a simple change in scenery can lead to big breakthroughs.
What if None of the Strategies Work?
If you’ve tried everything and still feel stuck, give yourself permission to rest without guilt. Sometimes, writer’s block is your mind’s way of asking for a break. When you return, you’ll likely find more clarity and energy.
