If you work as a writer, you’re definitely familiar with writer’s block and the challenges of getting into the flow state of writing. However, with deadlines nearing closer, dealing with these problems can cause even more stress than normal; thus, completely ruining your chances to be productive. Fortunately, you can always try the following tactics to beat writer’s block effectively and resume your creative endeavors quickly.
Minimize Online Distractions
With so many online distractions, it can be really difficult to tune everything out and focus solely on getting into your writing flow. Email and social media are some of the biggest productivity foes, with YouTube being one of the largest. It’s fine to play some music in the background but not if the platform is enticing you to look up cute cat and dog videos, for example.
The first thing you want to do is close every single tab on your browser that has nothing to do with your work or can potentially be a distraction. Next, silence your phone and put it out of your immediate reach. You can also install cross-platform distraction-blocking apps to aid you further in your battle against distractions.
Listen to the Right Tunes
We are all different. In that respect, some people find background noise and music to be extremely helpful when it comes to a concentration boost, while others need complete silence.
In general, if you’re part of the first group, you can try different music genres to see which one suits your writing style the most. This can be instrumental/classical music, your favorite band, or special brainwave music that’s meant to elevate creativity. On the other hand, you may find actual background noise to work the best, such as having your TV turned to a low volume. Try it and see how well you get into the flow state.
Drink Water as You Write
Staying hydrated is essential for one’s health, but it’s also crucial for maintaining mental clarity and focus. Therefore, if you want to accomplish more as a writer, make it a point to have your water bottle next to your keyboard so that you can take a sip of water every once in a while.
If you’re not used to drinking water regularly, get yourself a really nice personal water bottle that will make you happy every time you see it. Also, you can squeeze some lemon or add mint leaves to your water to add to the taste.
Supplements vs. Stimulants
You should be very careful about this one. It’s true that the biggest reason for writer’s block is the lack of proper nutrition. Vitamins and minerals can rid you of the brain fog and help achieve the flow state when writing.
However, many people turn to stimulants first instead of doing their research about brain-boosting supplements. As an avid coffee drinker myself, I can tell you that caffeine won’t help with writer’s block and focus in the long run. Quite the contrary – too much coffee can make you all anxious and cloud your mind.
On the other hand, supplements such as magnesium, Vitamin B complex, Vitamins D and C, as well as nootropics (brain power supplements) such as L-Theanine, Rhodiola Rosea, and Ginkgo Biloba can work their magic much better. Still, make sure to discuss taking these with your healthcare provider, just to be on the safe side.
Look at Greenery to Rest Your Eyes
There have been many talks about the benefits of nature when it comes to concentration and brainpower. However, if you don’t have the time to take a mindful walk in nature to clear your mind for a better flow state, at least take the time to observe it.
Spending hours in front of the computer and blue light can cause a huge strain on your eyes and trigger headaches. You simply need a break from what is threatening to turn into Computer Vision Syndrome if you want to beat writer’s block. Go out to your balcony, open the window, or sit in front of your plants. As long as you get to spend a couple of peaceful minutes looking at greenery, you can start to feel the benefits.
Move Your Body
When everything else fails, it may be time to rethink the amount of physical activity you’re getting. If there is none for days on end that you could remember, you have the answer to your writer’s block problem. When we exercise, we also help our bodies get rid of harmful toxins, produce happy brain chemicals, and boost brainpower.
In general, you should always find a way to fit at least 20 minutes of exercise into your daily schedule. But, if you need a quick concentration boost, I can recommend this interesting trick that I learned years ago that has served me nicely ever since. Namely, touch the roof of your mouth with your tongue, cross your arms across your chest and grab your left earlobe with the right hand and right earlobe with the left hand. In that position, do about 15-20 squats.
Being a writer is a rewarding and fulfilling career, especially when you know how to get around writer’s block. If this discussion hasn’t turned you off of it, and you’re interested in pursuing a career in writing, feel free to check our tips on how to build a successful freelance writing career.