Writer's Block

Every time I have something to write I have a problem, writer's block. For those of you folk who are unaware of what this is, it is the complete lack of any idea what to write about. I swear, I've been staring at a blank word document for about ten minutes now.

Needless to say, there are ways to combat writer's block.

First of all, read other people's writings or read some of your own. This will help you gather ideas about style and topics. Don't be dumb and plagiarize though.

Next, if you have been staring and thinking for a while, just take a break! Odds are, staring at a blank screen is not going to lead to a big epiphany if it hasn't already.

Thirdly, when you are taking your break, try to see things in a new light. Think about how you could incorporate the snack you are eating or the lamp on the table into your writing. Use your surroundings as inspiration.

When you finally decide that your break is over and you realize that you still have absolutely nothing to write about, do something else that is productive. Don't waste your time idling over a paper that isn't going to write itself.

Finally, when all else fails, write about writer's block.

Don't ever give up on writing. Whether that big epiphany comes when you need it to (the night before your paper is due) or later, make sure you write about it! One day your memory will be fading, but you can always remember momentous thoughts through your writings. Writer's block or not, never stop writing (even if you are writing about writer's block).