4 Things to Do When Writer’s Block Strikes

For a writer, few things are more aggravating than writer’s block. It’s beyond frustrating to know your topic and be keenly aware of your (all-too-soon) deadline but remain unable to organize your thoughts coherently enough to produce the written deliverable you need. Oof. 

To get ideas flowing and gain momentum again, try applying these four strategies.

  1. Accept it.


    If you’re stuck, simply accept it. Don’t waste time staring at your computer – that’s not productive! Know that it’s not a weakness, a sign that you’re losing your touch or any other reflection on you. Every creative has hit a roadblock at some point, so don’t beat yourself up or waste your valuable time sitting at your keyboard trying to force something that’s just not going to happen (yet).

  2. Walk away.


    This may sound counterintuitive when you have a deadline looming, but get out of your office. Go do something totally unrelated to clear your mind and gain some perspective. Take a walk outside, organize a closet, play with puppies – whatever you do, leave your current environment and focus your attention elsewhere for a bit.

  3. Consult creative resources.

    Writer’s block is a good example of why it’s important to collaborate and not work in silos. Run the idea by a colleague or two to seek input. Read related content in your industry, or even type a few of your main phrases into a thesaurus for inspiration. Or you can broach the subject with friends or family who aren’t familiar with it. This is a healthy practice to engage in periodically anyway, with or without writer’s block. It’s helpful to see what ideas may exist outside your industry’s echo chamber and keep a pulse on how your content is resonating with those outside of your field.

  4. Call Murphy Marketing.


    Well, you probably guessed this one was coming. Right? Call us! This is what we do and why we’re here. We love helping you find the words you need and the clarity you’ve been chasing. Let’s get on the phone and tease it out together!


Wishing you a speedy recovery!


Leigh Harper

Leigh enjoys writing, devouring good books and going fishing with her family. An enneagram one, Leigh finds satisfaction in tweaking content to make it the very best it can be.


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