Do you ever have days when writing makes you crazy. You have writers block or can't see clearly to read through a manuscript you are editing? I'm there today!
So what are some good ways to clear your head and refocus on writing?
Sometimes I have to take a break and either work on another project unrelated to my writing project(s) and/or just get out of the house.
On the other hand it could be helpful to try to write through the writers block, which can get your brain going.
I make lots of brainstorming lists, which sometimes helps. What works for you? Think of ways that you can refocus after a frustrating day (or week) of writing and editing....
I have two approaches.
ReplyDeleteEither, like you, I drop it entirely and do something else.
Or I leave the part I am stuck on and I jump to another section of my book.
Interestingly, as often as not the place where I was stuck becomes a break in the finished piece, a point where I switch PoV or move into a different sub-plot.
Al
Publish or Perish
I find a workout sometimes helpful.
ReplyDeleteSometimes I just need to put it down & work on something else for a few days until my head clears of the frustration.
I send rambling e-mails to a few friends about what my problem is. More often than not, I resolve the issue before I sign off.
Sometimes I just have to write. If it doesn't work, I know to throw it out and start over with another idea. Sometimes I just can't see that something does or doesn't work until I write it out.
Thanks for the comments. Working out is a good idea too. Sometimes I like to go on a walk to take a break from writing and refocus my mind.
ReplyDeleteA walk along the river is my favourite way to kickstart the inspiration, making sure I have a notebook with me. Another is as you say to write through the writers block. I also have a big box of poetry ideas which I pick up as often as possible and browse through. i made a real commitment ercently, now that I'm so connected online to make a real effort at making more time for writing with a pen and paper....
ReplyDelete