Overcoming Writer’s Block: Embrace Your Identity as an Author
Is Writer’s Block Real?
As a writer, I’ve often heard and even use the phrase, I have writer’s block. But over time, I’ve begun to question whether writer’s block truly exists. In my experience, it’s either a fleeting feeling, an excuse, or simply a sign that something else is getting in the way of my creativity.
When I look back, I can see I was probably being a bit lazy, distracted by life’s chaos, or perhaps uninspired because my heart wasn’t in it.
I’ve been writing a non-fiction book over the past eighteen months about my beliefs about writer’s block and during my research I’ve come up with a few ideas on how to overcome what’s holding me back which could help you too.
Step One: Own Your Identity as a Writer
One of the biggest hurdles to overcoming writer’s block is self-doubt. Many writers hesitate to call themselves authors because they haven’t been published, haven’t reached a certain level of success, or fear they aren’t “good enough.” But I believe if you write, you are a writer. If you’ve created a piece of writing, you are an author. It’s time to own it.
The next time someone asks you what you do, don’t hesitate, say I’m an author. Say it with confidence. When you fully embrace your identity as a writer, you’ll find yourself more motivated to create. Writing becomes an important part of who you are rather than just something you do when inspiration strikes.
Step Two: Shift Your Perspective on Writer’s Block
If you tell yourself, you have writer’s block, your brain will believe it. Instead, try reframing your situation. Rather than seeing a lack of words as a creative block, consider it a sign that you need to adjust your approach.
Ask yourself:
- Am I feeling uninspired because I haven’t been reading enough?
- Am I avoiding writing because I’m afraid it won’t be good?
- Is my mind cluttered with other distractions?
- Do I need a break to recharge?
Often, writer’s block isn’t about a lack of ability it’s about self-doubt, burnout, or a need for fresh inspiration. Instead of getting frustrated, take proactive steps to reignite your creativity.
Step Three: Develop a Writer’s Mindset
The key to pushing past mental roadblocks is to adopt a positive, resilient mindset. Writing isn’t always easy, but challenges should be seen as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles.
Ways to Strengthen Your Writer’s Mindset:
- Write Daily (Even if it’s Bad): Perfectionism is a creativity killer. Give yourself permission to write badly because bad writing can always be edited. No words on the page? Nothing to work with.
- Separate Writing and Editing: If you try to make every sentence perfect as you go, you’ll freeze up. Write first, edit later.
- Stop Comparing Yourself: Every writer has a unique voice. Your journey is yours alone, and comparing yourself to others will only slow you down.
- Accept Rejection as Part of the Process: Every successful writer has faced rejection. It’s not a reflection of your worth, it’s just part of the game.
Step Four: Read, Explore, and Expand Your Horizons
Reading widely is one of the best ways to break through creative blocks. Exposing yourself to different genres, writing styles, and perspectives can fuel your imagination and help you develop your own voice.
If you feel stuck, step away from your project and read something completely different from what you usually write. Study how other authors structure their stories, develop characters, and use language.
You don’t have to limit yourself to books, either. Watch movies, listen to podcasts, visit art galleries, creativity is everywhere. The more you absorb, the more ideas will flow.
Step Five: Just Start Writing (Even if You Don’t Feel Like It)
Sometimes, the only way to overcome writer’s block is to write through it. Set a timer for 10 minutes and start writing anything, a stream of consciousness, a journal entry, a description of your surroundings. The act of writing will often trigger ideas and get your brain back into creative mode.
You don’t need to wait for inspiration. Often, inspiration follows action. The more you write, the easier it becomes.
Writer’s Block is a Mindset, not a Reality
At the end of the day, writer’s block is often just fear in disguise, fear of failure, fear of imperfection, fear of not being good enough. But remember, you are a writer. The words will come, but only if you give yourself permission to write freely, without judgment.
So, the next time you feel stuck, don’t say, I have writer’s block. Instead, ask yourself what’s really holding you back. Then, read, write, shift your mindset, and own your identity as an author.
I’m always here to help, feel free to get in touch if you need any assistance on your creative journey – Contact Selena’s Services
Selena 🙂
