GSB Vol. 17, NO. 7, Pg. 72. Writing Matters.

Authorby Karen J. Sneddon and David Hricik

Georgia Bar Journal

Volume 17.

GSB Vol. 17, NO. 7, Pg. 72.

Writing Matters

GSB JournalVol. 17, NO. 7June 2012Writing MattersStopping the Insanity: 10 Tricks to Overcome Writer's Blockby Karen J. Sneddon and David HricikWriter's Block Happens to Us All

We've all had that moment. The clock ticks as we gaze transfixed at a blank screen. Writer's block. Writer's block can grip even the most seasoned writer. We may be grappling with a worrisome web of conflicting authorities or scrambling to locate any authority. We may be overwhelmed with a seemingly endless string of unper-suasive arguments or suffering from an embarrassment of richness with too many compelling points. In any case, writer's block is that paralyzing moment when the words don't flow.

One thing we've learned is that change helps overcome writer's block. This installment shares some strategies to help you overcome it.

Take a Hike

Procrastination may be the thief of time, but you can't get blood from a turnip. Rather than continue to stare despondently at the blank screen, take a break. Take a walk to get the blood circulating. Take some deep breaths to clear your mind. A few minutes away from the computer (or paper) can revitalize you and allow you to resume your project.

Change Your Space

As comfortable or familiar as your writing environment may be, change it. Move to a conference room, your kitchen table, a park bench or even the other side of your desk. Consider switching from typing to handwriting (or vice versa) to create a new writing environment. By altering your environment, you may awaken your writing powers.

Do Something Else

Letting other projects, such as cleaning the refrigerator crisper or reordering a bookshelf, distract you may be an avoidance tactic. However, it can be difficult to focus on a task when suffering under the weight of a list of pressing projects. So, cross off some other task. Clear out the overflowing inbox or return voicemails.

With one task crossed off the to-do list, it may be easier to focus on writing.

Forget the Rules

Our familiarity with form and conventions, as well as our high expectations of our final work product, can immobilize us. Shake off the shackles of convention to earn a reprieve with free writing. Find a quiet spot, take out some blank paper, and write continuously for seven minutes. No editing. No revising...

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