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Writing lets us communicate with one another. It allows expression for whatever purpose we choose, but it’s a common problem to hear when someone says “they are stuck” in a particular spot of their writing. It’s especially evident with the “writers block” term and is a genuine stage in the writing process. However, I believe there’s all sorts of ways to unlock new ideas and avenues of conveying a message. Here are some helpful tools that could help spark new ways of thinking:

Set a consistent schedule

A lack of basic planning typically results in feelings of anxiety and not feeling in control of ones own environment, causing harmful effects to the writing process. Consistency is essential to opening a reliable window towards fresh ideas and each schedule must meet the needs of the individual.

Some people like to workout before they write while some do it as they roll out of bed. There’s even some who prefer to write in the late hours of the night when everyone is asleep. Each have their own perks, but it’s ultimately up to you on how you want to plan and go about your schedule.

I personally recommend that you try writing in all different times of the day or at least when you can, then slowly narrow your timeframe once you’ve grown a preference for when you think you write most. This can take time but is typically better for the long run.

Find external sources

We can only create so much on our own. We need books, music, movies, life events, and anything from the external world which helps with the creation of new ideas. I often read a specific genre when I’m writing in that area or I listen to music when I try to get an uninterrupted flow of ink onto the page. Another exercise I enjoy doing is watching a movie or going for walk to experience the outside world and trying to see certain things I don’t normally pay attention to. In short, it’s much easier to write when you don’t always have to create something from thin air.

Changing your writing style

Experimenting with different writing styles allows you to think in new and exciting ways. Writing prompts are a great option to get your juices flowing whether you make them yourself or find them in a book(external source). Another great new tool that is taking the world by storm is Artificial Intelligence. While I don’t recommend using AI to write your entire book, I personally have found an abundance of ideas and exercises which you can teach the AI through writing workshops, feedback, and constructive criticism. This takes some practice with teaching yourself on how to teach AI and what to look for, but I strongly encourage it just so you have the experience. You can also try writing a black out poem. They can be very fun!

Finding or building a community

Finding people who you can share and collaborate with is a great factor not only to life, but to your creative journey as well. I personally have difficulty with this one because I find it easy just to sit in my room and write, but it’s easier to bounce a ball with four different walls rather than none. Community is a gift and it allows you to connect, share ideas, and embrace feedback which can improve your writing. This includes workshops, courses, Facebook groups, and anything else which allows you to connect with people.

Looking for community? Send me an email and I’ll happily share ideas, feedback and conversation.

Setting goals and keeping a notebook nearby

This seems like an easy one, but rarely do I see people with updated goals on where they want to be and how they are going to get there. Better yet, it doesn’t require weeks of brain power or a life coach to get you going. All it takes is some concentrated thought and you writing it down so it becomes a little more concrete. Thoughts are intangible and become forgotten in minutes, which is why it’s so dangerous to leave your goals only with your thoughts. But when you have a notebook where ever you are, you’re able to write anything that comes to mind in that very moment.

Conclusion

There are countless of ways to improve your writing potential and I think all it takes-deep down-is some alone time for you to think, observe, or listen to what you or the world has to say. It isn’t going to come right away, but there’s different tools and tips all around the world/internet, which furthers the possibility of you writing your next book!

What were your takeaways from reading this? Do you have any tips or exercises that you do to unlock your brain from writers block?