How to Survive Writer's Block

Every writer has gone through it at least once in her lifetime. Writer's block-that pernicious affliction which attacks the imagination and leaves it paralyzed-is singlehandedly one of the worst and most common problems any writer faces or will face during her career. Sometimes it attacks while in the middle of a writing project. Sometimes it occurs before a single word is committed to paper. It can last briefly, or it can afflict its victims for years on end. To its sufferers it is a debilitating process to work through. When the creative juices stop flowing, any writer, no matter how established and lauded, loses confidence.

While most people know what writer's block is, most might not necessarily know what causes it. Singling out any one cause is dubious since it really depends on the writer and her particular problem. Personal or emotional issues, stress, lack of time or sleep, perfectionism or lack of self-confidence, family responsibilities or other distractions can all contribute to writer's block. There is also that dreaded sophomore slump experienced writers endure after they've published their first book, especially when it is a critical and financial success. What do you follow that up with? How can you compete against your previous success? The pressure of expectation can lead to a serious writer's block. Writer Michael Chabon's second novel, 1995's Wonder Boys, which was made into a movie a few years later starring Michael Douglas, dealt with the sophomore slump and the psychological effects it had on the book's protagonist.

Whatever the reason, writer's block affects all writers the same way, leaving them unable or incapable of beginning or completing a writing project. If you are struggling with writer's block, here are some ways in which you can work your way through it and begin writing again:

1) Walk Away