5 Ways to Unblock Blogger’s (Writer’s) Block
If you are a blogger or a writer or involved in any creative pursuit whether it be for income or for pleasure, then I am sure that you are all too familiar with writer’s block (which I like to call blogger’s block) or creative block. Simply put, it is the inability to think of something to write (or paint or sculpt or sketch or create) and the condition of being unable to proceed with your creative endeavor. Speaking from the viewpoint of a blogger, we are faced with the challenge to create new and interesting content every time we sit down to draft a new post. And for me specifically, I am a terrible photographer (which is not the best quality for a fashion/lifestyle blogger), so if I want to get your attention then I really had better have something interesting to say.
A few weeks back, I wrote a post about my struggle with blogger’s block and since writing that post, I have been brainstorming ways to unblock the block. The result of my brainstorming is this list of methods that help me jump start my brain and get the creative juices flowing again. In hindsight, writing that post about not being able to write actually gave me the boost in creativity that I needed.
Granted there are tons of articles listing ways to overcome writer’s block or creative block. Just type “writer’s block” or “creative block” in a Google search and you will see for yourself. I have not read any of these articles as I wanted this post to be the ways I personally have discovered to help beat the blogger’s block. But, to be honest, I will probably go check out some of the other tips out there when I am done writing this post.
So let’s get on with it…five tips, uninfluenced by outside sources, that I have discovered to beat blogger’s block.
1. Just start writing.
I already stated that writing a post about having nothing to say was probably the best step to take when confronted with a brain filled with absolutely nothing original to say. The act of writing, in and of itself, is enough to kick the creative part of the mind into action. Eventually you stumble upon some interesting topic that piques your interest and then you run with it. So I started writing about how I Literally Have Nothing to Say and eventually I discovered that I was saying something. And it turns out, I was saying something that readers actually were relating to!
2. Read what others are writing.
This is a big one for me. When I am totally lost and uninspired on my own, I seek it out elsewhere. And being a blogger, I have an endless list of other fabulous sources where I can look to find inspiration. Getting super bogged down with managing my own website as well as managing a household and tending to two young children, I definitely don’t keep up with following along as much as I would like. So I take advantage of my blogger’s block time to catch up on reading some of my favorite blogs, websites, and magazines. You can check out who I look to for inspiration here. My post Are You Irresistible? came into existence just this way…I took an interesting article that a friend had sent to me and I created an entire post built around it.
3. Find a favorite quote.
This tip has never failed me. If I am completely stumped on where to even start, I look to some of my favorite quotes (which I have jotted down in various journals and elsewhere) and I build from there. Sometimes the writing goes in an entirely different direction from where I began, but I don’t mind that so much as the point was really to just get started. For example, my post Mind Your Words has its origins with a quote that ended up buried deep in the body of the post, not at the forefront at all. ( “…for what are words but the body and dress of thought? And is not the mind indicated strongly by its outward dress?”) And this turned out to be one of my favorite posts. And to think it started out with blogger’s block!
4. Ask for ideas.
Oftentimes, the easiest way out is actually just that…easy! And there is nothing wrong with taking the easy route every now and then. If you are coming up blank, just ask others for ideas. Ask your friends, your spouse, your kids, your readers. Especially your readers. I did just that at the end of my post Exciting Things are Happening on the Edge and many of you offered tips, ideas, and topics that you would like me to address. I received suggestions in the comments and via e-mail which is super exciting because I now have a list of ideas for future blog posts! And that leads me to my last tip.
5. Keep a list of ideas.
I keep notepads on my bedside table, on my desk, on my coffee table, and in my kitchen. Oh, and one in my purse. If an idea strikes me, whether it’s a good one or not, I write it down. If someone gives me a suggestion, I write it down. So now, just 2 1/2 weeks after posting that I had nothing to say, I have list of 20 different topics for blog posts. I don’t know if I will actually create blog posts based on all 20 of these things because I am sure that new and better ideas will come to me in the meantime. But I still maintain my list just in case! And this post itself was plucked directly from my list as I sat at my computer to write and thought, “Hmmm. I’m not really sure what I want to say right now.”
What are some tips that have helped you unblock the block? I would love to hear in the comments…and maybe at a later date I can publish an even more extensive list of tips to keep the creative flow going!
Outfit details:
Jeans: Gap Factory Legging Jeans in Medium Wash.
Tunic: LC Lauren Conrad for Kohl’s (from last year). This Lace Yoke Swing Top in Faded Rose is similar but with short sleeves.
Cardigan: Ronni Nicole purchased from the Fort Drum Exchange. Shop other Ronni Nicole styles at JCPenney or Kohl’s.
Sandals: Joe Boxer for K-Mart (from last year). Similar here and here.
Necklace: Kohl’s Clearance. Similar here.
Earrings: Fort Drum Exchange.
Unblocked on the edge (for now),
Shelbee
Linking up with these Fabulous Link Ups Where I Link Up
53 Comments
Anna Marcus
Shelbee, I think you have good points here, I am sure lot of us can associate with the writer’s block syndrome. Next time my brain will hit rock bottom, I will follow your advice. On a different subject, I love your outfit and you look great in pink
https://lookingfabulousat50.blogspot.com.au
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thank you, Anna! I hope my little tips help you next time you do have writer’s block!
xoxo
Shelbee
Tara
I love the idea as using a quote for inspiration. That is a great color on you!
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thanks so much, Tara! I have always been a huge fan of quotes.
xoxo
Shelbee
jodie filogomo
I really like the quote idea—I’m a huge fan of quotes.
If I analyze why it’s probably because they are quick & to the point (just like me) and really can make you think of things in a different way!!
As a non writer in this blogging world, I’m glad I’m in the fashion realm so I can talk about the clothes—to me that’s usually easier!
Speaking of clothes—your outfit is the perfect casual day look!! I’d wear it easily!
jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
I love all of the quotes you share, Jodie! I need to start writing down my favorite ones from your blog! Thanks so much for reading!
xoxo
Shelbee
danielle
this happens to me all the time, thanks for the tips!
http://www.avecdanielle.com
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
It is so frustrating, isn’t it? Thanks for reading, Danielle!
xoxo
Shelbee
Erica
Great tips! I most definitely have major writers block. I’m in the process of trying to stimulate my creative thinking!
Erica
http://pumpsandpushups.com/take-these-three-steps-everyday-for-a-better-summer-shape/
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
I hope you get unblocked soon, Erica! Hopefully, you can find something helpful in my tips. Thanks for reading.
xoxo
Shelbee
Edye
Such great tips, Shelbee! I love going on Pinterest and finding new quotes whenever I get “bloggers blog,” too. It’s a great way to get re-inspired 🙂
Blessings,
Edye | http://gracefulcoffee.wordpress.com
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thank you, Edye! Pinterest is definitely a great source of inspiration on all fronts!
xoxo
Shelbee
michelle
These are great tips! I carry a little notebook around with me all the time & write down blogging ideas/outfit inspiration as it strikes me!
michellespaige.com
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
I think that keeping lists really helps! And if I forget my notebook and an idea strikes me, I text it to myself! Thanks so much for reading, Michelle!
xoxo
Shelbee
Laura
These are great tips! I love keeping a list of ideas, too. And when all else fails I get a glass of wine and that normally helps!
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thanks so much, Laura! Is there anything that wine doesn’t help?! I have definitely taken the route, too!
xoxo
Shelbee
Jordyn
Keeping a running list of ideas, and forcing myself to sit down and write are the two ways I combat writer’s block. Occasionally I just let myself take a break and become inspired by life!
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Definitely all great ways to beat the block, Jordyn! Thanks so much for reading and sharing!
xoxo
Shelbee
Sheela Goh
I wash my hair!! Seriously. Whenever I’m faced with writer’s block, off I go to wash my hair and it works like a charm.
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
That is so funny and interesting, Sheela! Although it makes sense, for real, because I do some of my best thinking when I am in the shower…so I do believe you are on to something! Thanks for sharing…I’m going to try that next time I get all blocked up!
xoxo
Shelbee
Karen Strand
I love that you shared this. I know when I feel I don’t have anything worthwhile to say, I feel like it’s just me. Because when I look around, everyone else has plenty to say. But I know for a fact that “just start writing” works like a charm for me! I may edit and re edit what I wrote 100 times, but it gets thought process going.
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thanks so much, Karen! I actually think the best to get the writing going is to just start writing…even if it ends being junk!
xoxo
Shelbee
Shelly
You look adorable! Writer’s block is for real…I definitely struggle more with this in the winter months for some reason. I don’t know if I just feel like hibernating or what. I do think prompted linkups have helped me a lot to fill in the space when I’m feeling a little less creative. Thanks for sharing your tips!
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thanks so much, Shelly! I have not noticed a pattern to when my writer’s block strikes, but it is super annoying nonetheless!
xoxo
Shelbee
Debbie Stinedurf
Fabulous tips and I have done every one myself. I find that sometimes the more that is going on in real life, the less able I am to write. I’m not a pre-planner (except for my list of ideas…if something pops in my head I jot it down), I sit down a day or two before I post and I write. That seems to work best for me although if I happen to be blocked it can be a problem.The frustrating thing is I have about 1,001 thoughts/opinions on a 1,001 things and sometimes I come up with nada!
Debbie
http://www.fashionfairydust.com
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Debbie, I am so with you on all of that! I often write my posts the day I am posting because of lack of motivation, ideas, and time! I only keep my list of ideas and try to keep to a posting schedule, but rarely do I ever have anything done in advance! I wish I could do that. Maybe someday when both children are in school!
xoxo
Shelbee
Jessica Jannenga
I love the rose pink color on you with your complexion, the sandals are so cute too! I need to wear some jeans this fall! Writers block can be overcome by taking a break from the computer at times, I found. 🙂
Thanks for linking up with turning heads tuesday
jess xx
http://www.elegantlydressedandstylish.com
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thanks so much, Jess! I don’t think I spend enough time on the computer! For me, I definitely need to keep writing or I really lose touch! I am so ready for fall and jeans-wearing like every day! Thanks for stopping by!
xoxo
Shelbee
Andrea@WellnessNotes
Most of my blog posts are centered around an outfit or an outing. I’ve found what helps me is just get out and live my life. More often than not we’ll come across an interesting backdrop to take photos or a place that I consider “share-worthy.” 🙂
And, yes, reading other blogs can be a great way to find inspiration!
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Andrea, that is also a wonderful way to create fun and interesting content. There are so many great ideas shared in these comments. I love it! Thanks for stopping by!
xoxo
Shelbee
Stephanie
Love your outfit!! I hate writers block. I usually go on a walk or go back later after reading a good book or playing something on the Xbox. It helps me. Inspiration is everywhere.
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thank you, Stephanie! That is a really good method, too, for dealing with writer’s block. I am loving all the ideas that are being shared in the comments!
xoxo
Shelbee
Ashley
The ‘just start writing’ tip is my go-to! You gotta keep chuggin’ along and push through, or at least that’s been the most helpful for me.
Great post, lady- and love those jeans on you!
-Ashley
Le Stylo Rouge
Ashley
The ‘just keep writing’ tip is what works for me- I just have to keep chuggin’ along, and then the writer’s block breaks (eventually, ha). 🙂
Great post, lady- and love those jeans on you!
-Ashley
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thanks so much, Ashley! I love how so many bloggers are sharing the tips that work best for them. It is refreshing to know that there are so many ways to beat writer’s block. But writer’s block is definitely frustrating!
xoxo
Shelbee
Carrie @ Curly Crafty Mom
These are all such great ideas, I like the keep a list of ideas one. I sometimes have an idea pop in my head and if I forget to write it down, I sometimes forget the idea! I also have some posts I’ve had in my head for awhile and I just haven’t had time to work on them. Pink is such a great color on you and that necklace goes great with that top!
Carrie
curlycraftymom.com
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thank you, Carrie! I definitely have ideas on my list that have been there for quite some time as well. Either because I have not been inspired to write about that particular topic or I just can’t figure out how I want to approach it. But I keep them on the list anyway just in case the inspiration hits some day!
xoxo
Shelbee
Yvonne
Lovely post Shelbee. I always know what to write about and then suddenly don’t know how to write it – it is so wierd….so what happens is I start in the evening and then wake up super early, delete 50% of what I have written and finish the post…
Fortunately I love photography so am hoping the pics make up for lack of words.
Have a brilliant day
xxx Yvonne
http://www.funkyforty.com
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thank you, Yvonne! And that is a fabulous method for drafting a post! And you do always have the most amazing photos! Unfortunately, I need to rely on the words more until I can figure out a way to create better images. But writing has always been my very favorite way to express myself.
xoxo
Shelbee
jeremy@thirstydaddy
Its amazing how there are some weeks I can’t stop scribbling and others where I feel I simply don’t have anything interesting to say. I’m a big believer in carrying a notebook around also. You never know when the bug might bite. #fridayfrivolity
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
It is so true, Jeremy! There are even times when I look at my list of ideas for inspiration and I don’t like any of them in that moment. I think we need to give ourselves breaks, too, when the inspiration isn’t there. I have to get better about that…sometimes I get too stressed about it and then I get blocked up even more. Thanks so much for stopping by!
xoxo
Shelbee
Rebecca
I have started carrying a notebook with me so when I have an idea I just jot it down. Typically, most of my ideas come when I’m in the shower! Ha!
Love the look by the way. That pink top is gorgeous! #FridayFrivolity
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thanks so much, Rebecca! I seriously do my best thinking in the shower unless I am too busy yelling at my kids from inside the shower! I should keep a list of “shower thoughts”!
xoxo
Shelbee
Brooke of Passport Couture
Love the pink top on you, it looks great! I also enjoyed your tips and felt they were very authentic and great direction. I agree with you that just making yourself write will get you somewhere. At first you might think it’s not worth it, but just writing and getting words on a page are helpful. Before you know it, you’ve unlocked lots of creative potential.
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thanks so much, Brooke! It is so true that just going through the motions sometimes is all that it takes to get your creativity back on track. I guess it is similar to learning foreign languages, if you stop using the ability, you will lose it! Thank you for stopping by!
xoxo
Shelbee
Mother & Daughter
Shelbee where I have problems with writing a post is I can write it in my head and it is so good but I seem to forget when I go to type. lol I like funny witty posts but I come up short when I start to blog. I go straight to facts. lol
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Oh that happens to me sometimes, too. I get all these fabulous sentences created in my head, but then I can never remember them when I go to actually write them down. It is a bit frustrating. But I guess we just trudge on through and come up with the best that we can! I think it is important also to keep in mind that we are our own worst critics! Thanks for stopping by!
xoxo
Shelbee
Happiness at Mid Life
I suffer from writers block all the time on the blog. I like the idea of keeping an idea notebook.
Thank you for being a part of TBT Fashion link up and hope to see you soon!
Alice
http://www.happinessatmidlife.com
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
My notebook of ideas has definitely saved me many times! Thanks so much for stopping by, Alice!
xoxo
Shelbee
Jessica
These are all great ideas! I do struggle with “blogger’s block” from time to time so the next time that happens I’ll have to try some of these!
~Jessica
Jeans and a Teacup
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thank you, Jessica! I hope they help you when you need them!
xoxo
Shelbee
Sarah @ Bows & Clothes
I have been struggling with writer’s block as well. Thank you for sharing these great tips!
Thank you so much for linking up at Grace + Lace!
Sarah
Bows & Clothes
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
I have only been have brief moments where the block lifts! I hope these helped you a little, Sarah! Thanks for stopping by.
xoxo
Shelbee