Things I do to Beat Writer's Block

You're tired.
You have a deadline.
You want to write and can't.
There's this buzz in your ears and you can't get rid of it because there's too much going on in your head.
But I have an answer to help with Writer's Block and it's in line with this picture.
No, I'm not saying to eat or cook to cure your Writer's Block, but they are related.

I've found there are different types of Writer's Block. I'm only going to write about one cause and cure because there are a few reasons for Writer's Block.
Symptoms:

• I stare at a blank page.
• No matter what I try I can't seem to get words on the page.
• I have to write 2k words today, but I don't know where to start.
• My characters aren't talking to me.
• I don't know what should happen next.
• Most importantly: I do not have an outline to follow.

Cure:

1. Have some whine with your complaint.
2. Bitch to your friend.
3. Then get down to business.

Option 1:
If you don't have an outline and don't want to do an outline then try filling out this awesome, fun character sheet while thinking about your aloof character:

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01.character_outline_templeteworkshop.docx
File Size:	23 kb
File Type:	docx

Download File

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The file you will download looks as below. When I don't want to write a whole outline I start with who my characters are. It gives me insight and starts me writing. I mean, it's easy to write about people that are half-formed in your head and flesh them out a bit more. What does it hurt to spend 30 minutes with the character you love or love to hate?

Option 2:
If you are not opposed to taking the time to work out and outline, story planning guide or are just desperate to get your story out, then try these files below. I've included the Novel Outline summary, the Story Planning Worksheet and the Scene Outline so take your pick on what type of questions or format gets you going.
I don't use all three, but sometimes use one or two.

Now you'll notice it says "outline" and for those terrified of a "box" then consider it an exercise to get your mind off your writer's block. If you're unable to answer these questions then maybe you should do a little outlining or rather--asking what if's and all...

02.novel_outline_summary_templeteworkshop.docx
File Size:	21 kb
File Type:	docx

Download File

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04.story_planning_worksheet_templete.docx
File Size:	18 kb
File Type:	docx

Download File

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03.scene_outline_templeteworkshop.docx
File Size:	21 kb
File Type:	docx

Download File

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Option 3:
There is also one other option that might help you. It's to get off your computer. I found that my editor quiets down significantly when I turn to pen and paper. Hence, my Livescribe 3 electronic pen and moleskine notebook. I can't seem to type "new" stuff. Which is why I turn to the dinosaur method of pen and paper. It might work for you too.

Option 4:
As a last ditch effort and it's truely that pure white gives you the heepy-jeebies, then try mashing the keys with your knuckles just like if you were playing the piano so there is something on the screen. Then start with how you feel..."I feel..." start with that sentence.

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So what does all this have to do with the picture at top? Well, you see, sometimes a story takes effort to plot, plan, and imagine but then when you do have it all it comes out in a gush. Much like planning a meal you have to prepare, cook and then serve the food. It takes little time to eat it after that. Staring at a blank page is like staring at a turkey trying to decide how it should be eaten. Should I bake it? Fry it? Steam it? Or put it in a grill? Well...a little planning might help! Or perhaps you just need to get started. 

If you have another option I didn't put down to help with Writer's Block, please let me know in the comments! I'd like for everyone to have the benefit of finding out which Writer's Block they have and how to cure it! Good luck!