Writer’s block does not discriminate. Whether you’re writing a press release, planning out a social media content strategy or struggling with the wording of a client email, writer’s block can sneak up when you least expect it.
As public relations and marketing professionals, writing is part of every day life. So when you find yourself slamming your head against the proverbial wall, the creative part of your brain can feel paralyzed by frustration.
However, there are a few techniques that you can use to break the creative dam and get back in the flow. You can use some or all of these tricks at any time. (In fact, I’ve personally used some even when I don’t have writer’s block, just to keep my mind fresh.)
Give them a try, and please share your own tips in our comments section below, too!
Pomodoro Technique
This is a popular method for time management that can also be used for breaking through writer’s block. The concept is simple: Write for 25 minutes without interruption, then take a break for five minutes. Write for another 25 minutes. And so on. This is a good way to work your brain but also give it time to rest. Plus, there are loads of free Pomodoro timer smartphone apps.
Get Organized
Before you actually start writing, do you already know what you want to address? You should. Taking the time to flesh out an overall structure creates a road map to follow, so essentially what you’re writing is filling in the blanks. Make a skeleton outline or flowchart if needed. This is an easy task that can save you a lot of time and headaches.
Keep Writing
Although writer’s block can prevent you from finding the exact wording you’re looking for, it doesn’t mean you can’t write at all. If you need to, change topics all together and write about something else. You want to keep the words flowing. (This is especially helpful when combined with the Pomodoro Technique.)
Change Your Writing Environment
You’d be surprised how much your environment can influence your creativity. A small change can make a big difference, whether it’s moving to another room, changing your body posture, or switching from a desktop to a laptop and going outside.
Talk It Out
I’m a big believer in reading everything I write out loud. This helps you get a sense of how the people on the receiving end of your work will digest your writing. If you’re particularly stuck, whip out your phone’s voice recorder and start talking through what it is that you want to say; you can transcribe it later.
Break The Order
This is my personal favorite tip. Sometimes, writing in chronological order means that when you get stuck your whole work is on pause. Try starting from the middle or the end. Jump around and write the areas that are coming to you at the moment. Eventually, your whole work will come together. In this way, you can essentially walk around writer’s block, and it’ll never notice.