I’ve been wanting to talk about writer’s block for quite some time, but I don’t know what to say. Actually, I do know; it’s just that I don’t want to irritate readers because I don’t think I’ve ever truly had writer’s block.
That doesn’t mean everything I write flows effortlessly and without delay. It doesn’t mean I never find myself stuck composing an ending, an opening, or a transition—or that I never struggle with tying in an example, illustration, or point.
All those things do happen. It’s just that they are generally short-lived. I am usually able to work through them rather quickly, in a matter of seconds. Or sometimes I take a short break—measured in minutes, not hours or days—which allows me to attack my dilemma from a fresh perspective, with new insight, or a creative solution.
As I write more, I’ve observed these situations occur less frequently and are more easily overcome. I assume the same is true for writer’s block: that practice and persistence prevail, but I can’t say for sure.
So I can’t offer much in the way of useful advice for those who struggle with writer’s block, but Google does give eleven million matches for “writer’s block,” so I’m confident there is plenty of help out there from those who actually know what they’re talking about.
Regardless if your writing is blocked or not, my wish for you is to write well.
Learn more about writing and publishing in Peter’s book: Successful Author FAQs: Discover the Art of Writing, the Business of Publishing, and the Joy of Wielding Words. Get your copy today.
Peter Lyle DeHaan is an author, blogger, and publisher with over 30 years of writing and publishing experience. Check out his book Successful Author FAQs for insider tips and insights.