Not sure if this is an official term. I was going to title the post “Writers block”, but the truth is my mind is blank today as i sit down to attend to my writing duties. This caused me to dig into my files for inspiration, and a spark of an idea.
Out of my old file popped a dog eared page from a magazine published several decades ago…. It was titled “Got the Writers Block? Unblock yourself with these handy ideas.” It was a pop psychology piece with quick thought, practical ideas… nothing firm and based in scientific thought. But it has helped me through some of the most difficult moments when writing just did not flow:
- Open the blinds of your windows and soak in the sunlight
- Open a window and get some fresh air
- Go for a walk
- Play with the dog
- Make a phone call
- Turn on the radio
- Turn on soft music, or your favorite musical choice
- Allow yourself to take a break
- Do a household chore
- Read a magazine
- Bake bread or cookies
- Do your laundry
- Make a cup of tea or coffee
- Take a shower
- Take a nap
- Talk with a friend
- Visit the library
- Visit a museum
- Buy a bouquet of flowers
The article summed the list up as change your environment in some way, and this may break the block you have, or give you new inspiration. Writing is often tied to more than cognitive thought – and when the air is musty, the room is dark, or you have been inactive there might be less energy. Changing that by bringing in light, or fresh air, or a walk will change the environment.
All of that said, my post today will end with me heading to do my laundry! Perhaps this will help me be inspired to write something formative and of substance. Thanks for listening.