When You’re Stuck in a (Creative) Rut

Is it Writer’s Block?

I’m not a fan of the term writer’s block. Maybe most writers aren’t. It’s a phrase that hangs over our heads, casting shadows of frustration on our notebooks or computer screens.

But that’s not why I don’t like the term. I don’t like it because I think it’s a self-fulfilling prophecy of sorts. You write some crap and say, “Ugh, I have writer’s block.” And then you blame your lack of writing on said writer’s block.

But we all write crap sometimes. And Anne Lamott described it well in her essay “Shitty First Drafts.” (The title says it all, but you should still read the essay!)

Ray Bradbury reportedly said, “Write a short story every week. It’s not possible to write 52 bad short stories in a row.” I’m not sure I agree; I think it may actually be possible to write 52 bad short stories in a row, but, regardless, I can almost guarantee that your writing will improve if you follow his advice. You may also find yourself coming up with more interesting ideas as time progresses. It’s not a matter of practice making “perfect” (see my post about perfectionism); it’s more a matter of practice being what it is: practice. That is to say, practice helps you improve. That’s the essence of practice.

However, if you do find yourself running out of ideas, there are things you can do. First of all, keep writing, even if you’re writing crap (because you will), and consider that perhaps the problem isn’t so much writer’s block as it is a creativity block.

Try Other Creative Activities

I’ve read a lot about creativity, and my own experiences support the research that indicates that doing other creative activities will help spur your (general) creativity. That is to say: Go do something creative just for fun and without the pressure of performance.

I like to paint. When I’m having trouble writing, I paint. I don’t know any of the science behind it, but I’ve found that it helps me see in a different way. I find myself inspired. Suddenly, lines of poetry form in my head (well, not always!); it’s then easier to sit at my computer and write. Not only that, but painting often requires intense focus and study, which, in turn, takes my mind off of any problems (in writing or in life) that I’m encountering. (Incidentally, running (or other kinds of physical exertion) has a similar effect. Running may not be “creative,” but it often helps me solve creative writing problems (e.g., issues with characters, plot, endings).)

Wear Mismatched Clothes

Oh, I know this advice sounds suspect, but I once read somewhere (I have no idea where) that you can boost your creativity by wearing things you wouldn’t ordinarily wear. In other words, be daring! Wear plaid with a flower print. Wear an orange scarf with a red sweater and purple pants. It doesn’t matter. It doesn’t have to be crazy or weird, just something outside of your comfort zone. It may seem strange advice, but I’ve found it to genuinely have a positive effect on my own creativity. Stretching one’s comfort zone, in general, seems to have a positive effect on creativity.

Visit a Museum (or Other Cultural Venue)

Go to a play. Or a museum. Or a concert. Check out an art exhibit or a poetry/literary reading. Much like the other suggestions, this exposure can help inspire you. It’s not just the creative works in and of themselves (i.e., the music or poetry, etc.), but it’s also helpful to be around other creative people. Let yourself feed on the creative energy from others and see where it takes you!

Write to Combat Writer’s Block

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: Keep writing! Don’t let yourself fall into the writer’s block “trap.” Be bigger than it.

And if you can’t think of what to write, simply write about how it feels to have writer’s block. Describe the block itself. Is it a large boulder or a small pebble? Is it the size of a brick? Can you throw it, get rid of it somehow, or does it somehow always find you, weighing down your backpack? Or maybe it’s a mysterious substance that evaporates when you try to pick it up? Is it just a figment of your imagination?