Writing and Speaking > Writing > Writers Block -- How to Keep on Writing Anyway
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Article rating : 0.00, 0 votes. Author : Joan Clout-Kruse
Writing is a solitary profession. We park ourselves in front of our computer or yellow tablet and write for hours with no one else around. Only another writer could understand how we feel when we get stuck. Many times writer's block occurs because of our bad habits and attitudes. Here are some symptoms and remedies to use so that you can get back to your great writing.
1. Procrastination
Procrastination means to postpone or delay needlessly. The key word in that last
sentence is needlessly. This is the perfectionist in you coming out. You have set
such high standards in your writing and you are displeased with anything less. It could
be better, you think.
Solution: Forget about the perfect sentences right now. Just write. Write the
imperfect sentence. Tell yourself, "This is just a first draft." Get the words out-perfect
or not. You will get someone to proofread and then edit your writing later. I know this is
easier said than done for a perfectionist yet you have to let go of trying to make the first
draft perfect. A good editor will take care of that for you with the second draft.
2. Not enough willpower
Willpower means the ability to carry out your decisions, wishes, or plans. Then
the lack of willpower must mean you can't follow through on your decisions or plans. Is
that possible? Does someone have a gun to your head? If not, then you do have
control of your Will. You wanted to write, but you can't? Something is wrong with your
thinking. Ask yourself again, "Is this book important to me and to my readers?"
Solution: How about saying, "Yes, I WILL do it," and then do it. Well, it's going to take a little work on your part to believe it. So start your mornings with a litany of positive statements you will say about yourself. Write again
even if it is only one or two sentences to start. Get back to your writing. Work on a
different section if you are stuck. After all you are in charge of your writing and you
don't have to start at the beginning. Start at the middle or wherever your creative juices
lead you, but keep on writing. The will to finish your book is entirely in your hands.
3. Ran out of Ideas
Whoops! Did you forget to do some preliminary planning to help keep those ideas
flowing?
Solution: Did you identify the purpose of your book? What is the benefit to the
reader? Why should the reader buy your book? Why are you spending your hard
earned time writing this book? Why is your book so important? What problem are you
going to solve for the reader?
Make a list of 10 ways your book will help or entertain the reader. When you are
finished you have 10 chapters or 10 fresh ideas, so now you can continue writing
because you have lots of great ideas for your book.
The key to your writing success is to keep on writing. Never let writer's block take over
your writing life. When you are stuck identify the reason why. Be aware. Do some of
the activities above, be committed, and keep on writing your great book.
- - -
Joan Clout-Kruse is the author of "Top 10 Traits of Silicon Valley Dynamos," and the e-
book "How to Write Your Great Book in 90 Days or less" and "The ABCs of Success."
All these books can help you plan and set tasks to achieve your goals. Contact her at
CoachJoan@powerhousewriting.com or http://powerhousewriting.com
She can help
you write a "how to" book or booklet to attract clients and get recognized as an expert in
your field. She offers 90-Day book writing programs through personal coaching, e-mail
and teleseminars.
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