Getting Over Writer’s Block: Practical Tips to Get the Words Flowing

Your email inbox could use some attention, right? You start by deleting a few old messages. Then you decide to color-code your folders. Maybe you should just check social media for a quick scroll while you’re at it. You know, to "clear your head" before getting started.

Sound familiar?

Writer’s block often sneaks in disguised as procrastination. One minute you’re ready to write, the next you’ve cleaned your entire apartment, alphabetized your bookshelf, and reorganized your closet.

At other times, writer’s block shows up as full-blown panic. You have a looming deadline, but the words won’t come. Instead of writing, you spiral into self-doubt: Maybe I’m just not good enough.

The truth is, writer’s block isn’t some mystical force. It’s often anxiety, perfectionism, or resistance to trying something new. So how do you push past it?

Here are some actionable tips to help you get unstuck.

1. Stop Searching for the Perfect Idea

Perfectionism is a creativity killer. When you focus on finding the perfect idea, you put immense pressure on yourself—and that pressure can freeze you up.

Instead, brainstorm lots of ideas, even terrible ones. Write them all down without judgment. The goal is to get the flow going.

Imagine your ideas are like fish in a river. You have to keep the water moving to spot the best ones. And among the throwaways, you just might find a gem.

2. Embrace Imperfection

If you’re struggling to write, you might be trying to write too well. Many writers aim for perfection on the first try, but that’s like expecting to hit a bullseye without practice.

Start with a “brain dump.” Throw down all your thoughts, messy and unfiltered, on the page. Don’t worry about grammar, structure, or style. Just write.

Once you’ve splurged everything out, you can shape it into something coherent later. Writing is a process, and messy beginnings often lead to polished endings.

3. Break the Dam with the Worst Writing Possible

This one’s fun: deliberately write the worst version of what you’re trying to say. Go over-the-top cheesy, rambling, or nonsensical.

Why? Because it takes the pressure off. You’re not trying to impress anyone. And once you’ve broken the dam, you’ll often find that better ideas and sentences start to flow.

4. Write the Next Draft, Not the Final Draft

Writing can feel paralyzing when you’re convinced every word has to be perfect. But here’s the truth: nothing is final.

Tell yourself you’re just writing the next draft, not the final one. Knowing you can revise later gives you the freedom to focus on progress, not perfection.

5. Change Your Approach

If staring at a blank page isn’t working, try a new angle. Storyboard your piece with visuals. Jot down bullet points. Write a “spit draft” where you summarize what each section will say.

Or imagine you’re writing for a specific person—someone who will truly benefit from what you’re creating. Visualizing your audience can help you connect with your purpose.

6. Set Small, Achievable Goals

If your goal is to “write a novel,” you’re setting yourself up for failure. The task feels impossible, and that overwhelm makes it hard to even start.

Instead, break it down. Write a single sentence, paragraph, or section. Focus only on what’s right in front of you. Success builds momentum.

7. Walk Away (Literally)

Sometimes the best way to beat writer’s block is to step away. Go for a walk, hit the gym, or work in a different environment. Movement and fresh air can spark new ideas and give your brain space to breathe.

8. Be Kind to Yourself

Writing is hard work. It requires focus, creativity, and mental stamina. And sometimes, your brain needs a break to process ideas.

If you’re struggling, don’t beat yourself up. Recognize the difference between procrastination and genuine mental fatigue. Trust the process, and give yourself grace.

Final Thought

Writer’s block isn’t a permanent condition. It’s a passing state that you can overcome with action. Whether you’re brainstorming terrible ideas, splurging out messy drafts, or taking a much-needed walk, the key is to keep moving forward.

Remember: every writer gets stuck. The difference between those who succeed and those who don’t is persistence. Keep going. The words will come.