Writer's block - it's a common complaint.
I see many asking how to overcome it, their pitiful pleas are plastered across pages and forums.
So, you want to know how to overcome it?
Shh (*puts finger to lips, and eyes the room suspiciously*)
Come closer.
It's a secret.
.
.
.
IT DOESN'T EXIST!
"What?" I hear you cry indignantly.
OK, OK, calm down.
Here's the thing...
By naming it "Writer's Block" you are in fact putting a block on yourself.
That very word brings images of brick walls slamming down in my brain, imprisoning me.
(*pulls on collar*) So claustrophobic!
NO! STOP IT!
It is not a block at all. Take a deep breath with me.
In...phwwwww....
and out...pheeewwwww
OK, so it's just a "ponder point".
Maybe you've written yourself into a corner? My dark elf made me do that, and I've still not forgiven the little git.
Perhaps you've been writing happily, and all of a sudden the thoughts stopped.
Did your friends stop talking to you? You know, those little character voices in your head?
Whatever the symptom, do you remember the words on the front of "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy"?
DON'T PANIC!
It is but a moment in time. This too shall pass.
Take yourself away from your laptop/typewriter/writing pad.
Go make a cup of tea (or other beverage).
Take a walk outside. I hear your shocked gasp. Yes, the outside is still a place, and you ARE able to venture out into it.
Go horse riding, swimming, play a musical instrument, sing, dance, draw, have a bath, read. Whatever.
"And now for something completely different" (as the Monty Python boys said).
Distract your mind. Do something fun. Something for YOU. Set yourself free.
If you continue to sit still, running your fingers over your face and/or through your hair, you'll drive yourself crazy.
When you're in a hole, stop digging.
Honestly, it is NOT a block.
You can and will get through this.
The words will flow once more.
** If you want a meditation to help, my "Reconnecting with your Creative Flow" meditation is now up on the Insight Timer app. It's completely free. Click here.
If you want to hear the thoughts of another writer on this topic head to Paul's Fantasy Writings Blog
And, Written Word Media have an excellent post on meditation and exercises.
Oh, for a hilarious novel which may nudge you towards better self-talk, you could try my own Self Love.
** Additional meditation
If you're struggling with insomnia, I now also have this meditation on Insight Timer (Shut Off And Sleep).
This has been a TL service for all the suffering writers out there.
Thank you for listening.
I'd love to hear some of your distraction techniques.
Always with love & light,
TL
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