Welcome Catherine!
Hi
Ariella! Thank you for having me on your blog to discuss one of our favorite
topics – writing. As an author, one of the hardest things to work through is
writer’s block. It’s happened to me many times (nearly every time I sit down in
front of the computer). The following are some suggestions that have helped me
to break free!
Help, I’m Stuck! (Or Free
Yourself of Writer’s Block)
According
to Wikipedia, the definition of Writer's block is as follows: “Writer’s Block is a condition, primarily associated with
writing as a profession, in which an author loses the ability to produce new
work. The condition varies widely in intensity. It can be trivial, a temporary
difficulty in dealing with the task at hand. At the other extreme, some “blocked”
writers have been unable to work for years on end, and some have even abandoned
their careers.”
This dreaded “condition”
seems to affect every writer at some time in his or her career. Words may pour
forth easily for a while and then the mind shuts down at the very thought of
writing. If the condition lingers too long, panic can ensue. From there, the
writer might experience a feeling of failure and doom, especially when friends
or even worse, your agent, asks what is in the hopper.
The following are some
suggestions that have helped me in the past to get out of a slump and move
forward:
- Write everyday. If you have an idea for a story, now matter
how unrefined, write it
down. One simple phrase can begin a story or keep it moving.
- Pictures can lead to an idea. I often look through photographs or
drawings and will save my favorites. Using them as visuals can trigger an
idea.
- Think of the movies you’ve seen or books you’ve read and re-invent parts
of them. I’m NOT advising plagiarizing, but there are seldom completely
original plots in books or movies.
- Don’t become overwhelmed. Thinking that “I’ve got to write a book”
is certain to induce anxiety. Instead think, “I’ve got to think of some
really cool characters names” which is more fun to play with.
- Indulge in a good book. Many times reading can re-ignite the
imagination.
- If desperation sets in, walk the dog. Walking can free the mind and
the dog won’t think you’re crazy if you talk to yourself about an idea.
For more ways to give your
writing a boost, visit my website at www.catherinebennett.org
About Catherine:
I grew up in Ohio where I currently live with my husband and our
two rescue Labradors. Some of my favorite things include reading, shopping,
pepperoni pizza, Hershey bars and hanging out with my two grown sons. I also
love dogs, so going to the dog park is cheap entertainment for my husband and
I!
Growing up an only child, I had many imaginary friends. I
believe this - and a love of books - fueled my desire to write. It was many
years later that my dream of becoming a published author came true. You can
find my newest romance, “Devon’s Choice” on the following sites:
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