I've been working with Sonis Chopra on getting set up on a new writer's platform called Penned (you can download the app through your iPhone/iPad. It looks like a great app, though I haven't had much time to play around on it yet. Sonia offered to write a guest post for writers who follow my blog and since I'm always happy to get insight from other writers, I'm excited to share this with you...
The
4-1-1 on Writer’s Block
by Sonia Chopra
If
you’re a writer, you’re no stranger to writer’s block. In fact, he may be your
best friend. It happens to the best of us, and can be rather frustrating… Only
making things worse.
So
how can we politely ask this friend to leave? What are some ways to prevent him
from staying too long? From personal experience, I have found some of the most
effective ways to combat the enemy, are seemingly silly and even more
frustrating. But in reality, I can promise you that at least one of these will
ease the writing woes and kick your friend onto the curb of uninvited house-guests.
1. Step away… Step
away from your work. Put it out of sight, and out of mind for a mere fifteen
minutes. Try to direct your attention to another project or task that
involves creativity.. Get those creative wheels oiled up again!
2. Just Dance. It’ll Be
Okay. Doo-doo-doo. Just Dance. I’m serious. Yes this is a famous lyric from
Lady Gaga… but it’s the truth. Crank up some music (maybe “Just Dance”
perhaps?), and get your body moving. This helps ease the stress and frustration
of writer’s block, while allowing your mind to have fun in a creative and
active way.. You never know.. A song lyric could even inspire you!
3. Desk. Bed.
Desk. Do you always write in the same place? It’s time to switch it up!!!
The normal routine setting may just be inspiring normal and routine thoughts..
But no anymore! Go sit outside at your local park, coffee shop, or even in a
different room of your house (if you are that lazy). The change of
scenery sparks a change of ideas within our brain.
4. Exchange Ideas. View
Other’s Work. Get inspired by the thoughts and feedback of others. Post
your ideas or what you have so far on forums or apps such as PennedApp (a
social media platform for writers, that allows readers to like, comment, and
share their work). View what professionals and everyday writers are working on…
Humans live to inspire other humans!
Whatever
you do, just remember that writer’s block is temporary. It’s a mal-function,
like when wheels run out of oil and must come to a halt. All that is needed is
a little oil (these tips), and they’ll get to spinning again, promise!
About
the Author: Sonia Chopra is a newly graduated student from UCLA, working with
founder Brian Sanders on Penned: The new platform for writers. While she spends
most of her time working for a startup in Hollywood, she also enjoys reading up
on aspiring indie authors, modeling, freelance writing, and being a celebrity
publicist.
