If you're like me, and I know I am, then you've encountered at least a few of these when writing. Writer's block is not fun. If you haven't developed a routine to write at least a set amount of time each night (as I wrote in this post) then make sure you've made your dedication to writing a strong habit. However, habitual writing is always much easier said than done.
One trick I found was to read about some other authors and their inspirational quotes. Because sometimes not reaching your goals is sometimes a little heartbreaking and hearing that others have gone through similar situations sometimes makes it a little easier to bear.
 |
| A powerful focus tool for me |
As part of the nightly writing read only a page from a book by Susan Shaughnessy, "Walking on Alligators." Each page is broken into three parts. The first is a quote from an author, the second is a description of this, and lastly, there is a sentence for you as the writer to walk away with.
For example:
"Be careful how quickly you give away your fire- Robert Bly"
There is a detailed paragraph explaining the quote, for example, this one says that sometimes when you have an idea, it is best not to share it with others by "talking" it away. Sometimes an author might have so much fun talking about a book they never get around to writing it...
The takeaway: "Today, I'll save my fire. I'll write, not talk."
I said earlier that I only read ONE of these pages a day. More than that and you lose focus on the meaning of the one. Each of the pages has a different message, so don't waste them! And I'm sure there are other books, perhaps you could share one you use in the comments?
And remember: A writer writes!
