Writers Block

When writers have deadlines, they will often decide that there are better and more important chores to complete around the house. Dishes need to be washed. Grass needs to be cut. Bathrooms need cleaning.

Writers love to write, but when a deadline is looming, writers often feel they cannot write because of the pressure. However, even with this pressure, there are ways to help writers make progress.

Rewards. Set word or time goals, and reward yourself when you reach them. My favorite types of rewards include writing a page to receive a piece of chocolate or a cup of hot tea.

Magical hour. Find the time of day when you work best. I find that I am most productive from midnight until about 4 am. There are fewer incoming emails to distract me, and my husband and kids are sleeping. I cannot do this every night, but I can do this a few times a week.

Low-tech or no-tech tools. Not allowing yourself to use products like Microsoft Word forces you to concentrate on the words more. And if you decide to use pen and paper, when you are typing your words is a good time to begin the editing process. Some personality types find this method to be time consuming and usually opt out, but props to those who can!