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Not on this cure list . . . |
I started writing this post about finding cures for writer's block, but then I realized that these remedies could apply to lifer's block, too!
Lifer’s block is when you get stuck in a rut. Symptoms
include dragging your feet both literally and figuratively, emitting deep
sighs, and complaining about everything.
Writer’s block includes sitting in front of a blank screen
or blank piece of paper, with a mind that is just as blank.
The cures:
1.
Take a
break. Meditate. Walk around the block. Take a dip in a pool. Commune with
nature. Do something you enjoy. Or try something new. Maybe attend a community event, try a new restaurant or new recipe. But take a breather. Might be ten
minutes, ten hours, ten days . . .
2.
Read.
Okay, so this cure could fall under #1.
Take a break, but I wanted to give “Read” its own section since it’s so
important. Reading enables you to learn something new. Peruse articles online
or in a magazine. Pick up a book. You never know which morsel of newfound
knowledge may be the perfect antidote.
3.
Grateful
list. Sometimes we just need a new perspective on things. Keeping a daily
list of what we’re grateful for can get us out of any kind of rut. And help our
brains move to a happier place, ready to solve problems instead of wallowing in
them.
4.
Ask
someone. Talk it out with members of your critique group, your mom, a
friend, your hair dresser. The more brains, the more ideas, and the better off
you will be. Someone else may have a quick solution to your dilemma, inspire
you with a new way of thinking, or may even add a twist to your plot in your
life or in your book.
5. Workshops,
classes, & conferences. When you’re around other people, there’s
something powerfully and magically healing about that. Just rubbing elbows,
sharing your journey, knowing there are others out there that are just like
you, helps. And never think that you know everything there is to know.
Expanding your knowledge can be just the remedy you need.
Note: I joined the Society of Children's Book Writer's and Illustrators. This professional organization offers workshops, conferences, and other services like finding critique groups in your area. I can't say enough good things about this group and its members!
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ahhhh. Nature. |
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6.
Ask the
characters what they would do. Sound a little crazy? Well, maybe. But my
characters, Corey, Nick, and Fern from Brave, have nursed me back from writer’s block on several occasions. If
you’ve created solid characters, or at least ones with a bit of sympathy, they
become real, equipped with minds of their own. Why not pick their brains once
in a while? Especially if yours is on empty. If you’re experiencing lifer’s
block, characters can help you, too. Think about the books you’ve read. Think
about the characters and the choices they made. Or find books that mimic your
situation and discover what those characters do.
7.
Start
over. Ouch! Yes, I know this is like ripping off an adhesive bandage, but
sometimes extreme measures is what the doctor orders. Could be the route your
writing or life is taking needs a detour. Head in a different direction and see
where that leads you. Maybe it’s just a paragraph that needs to be altered, or
a chapter, but sometimes the whole story may need to undergo surgery. Or maybe
it’s buying a new wardrobe, going on a new adventure, or finding a new circle
of friends. Maybe a career change or move to a different region of the world is
in order. Assess your situation. Make plans. And get your brave on. You’re
never too young or too old to start anew.
I have swallowed each and every
one of these 7 pills. And all have worked for me. But these recommended medicines
and doses vary per person. Swallow at your own risk . . .
And if you’ve got some different
remedies, please share them below in the comment section!!!
With thanks, Jeanne
#Writers #SCBWI #Life #Cures #Happiness #GetBrave #WritersBlock
#LifersBlock #Author