Writer's Block? We'll Help You CRUSH It.

Hey authors! Ever stare at that blank screen wondering how to get things going? Sometimes jotting down the first word can seem like a Herculean task. Here at Lake Eerie Books, we're on it, with practical advice to help you bust through this roadblock and get on track for a productive writing day. Without further ado, our time-tested collection of six ways to get the creative juices flowing, so get ready to unclog those thought pathways!

1. Listen to Music – Music is a great way to tap into your creativity and open your mind up to new ideas. Think of it as a type of meditation, where you can disconnect from the real world (a bit) and let your imagination break free. Put on some tunes that get you in the writing mood, whether it's classical music, jazz, pop, or rock. Hell, put on Death Metal if that's what gets your juices flowing. You wouldn't be the first. Stephen King listens to Anthrax and Metallica to get the words flowing. It's just a matter of experimenting a little to find your groove.

2. Take Breaks – It’s easy to get wrapped up in a writing project and not want to take any breaks. Bad idea! (Unless it's working for you). Taking regular breaks will keep your energy level up and help you maintain focus throughout the day. If you need inspiration, do something completely different – like taking a walk, grabbing a coffee, or making some art. Even simple diversions like these will help you come back to the keyboard fresh and ready.

3. Write About Something That Excites You – If you’re struggling with writer’s block, try switching gears for an hour and writing about something that excites you. It could be anything from your favorite hobby to an upcoming event in your life, to a past experience that leads the words to just pour out of you. Writing about something that interests you is sure to turn you into a word-production machine, which you can then carry over to your main writing task at hand.

4. Talk It Out With Someone Else – Whether it’s with a friend or family member, talking things out with someone else can help unblock creative energy and provide fresh perspectives. Maybe you have an idea but don’t know how to turn it into a story. Or perhaps you need to brainstorm for solutions? Either way, talking with someone can help.

5. Write Freely – Don’t be afraid to jot down your thoughts as you go along, even if they don't make sense at first glance. You never know where your writing might take you and what kind of ideas could come out of it! Take a few hours and just ... let 'r rip. Forget all constraints and just write. Go wherever your ideas take you, even to strange places. What's the worst that can happen? You lose a few hours, gain a few ideas, and get a fresh start. Your screen will be filled - and that's the important part when trying to overcome writer's block!

6. Read Famous Writers Lamenting Writer's Block – Sometimes reading famous writers discussing writer’s block can help you feel inspired, or at least that you're not alone. Quotes such as “A blank sheet of paper is God's way of telling us how hard it is to be God” (Sidney Sheldon) or “I write because I don't know what I think until I read what I say” (Flannery O'Connor) can give you a needed kick-start. So go Google "Famous Authors Talking About Writer's Block" and see what you find!

Writer’s block can be frustrating, but you can overcome it. Next time the dreaded “blank screen of despair” appears on your computer, don’t give in – grab your headphones, or get up, or call a friend, and give some of these tips a try. Who knows what could come of it? Happy writing!