I’m a pretty upbeat person and I’ve learned to count my blessings…my husband, my children, and working as a writer. But every writer has moments when the words don’t flow and life can get you down. When this occurs, it’s important to know how to pull yourself out of the blues. Here are my go-to methods for beating writers block and getting back on track.
1. Open the curtains and windows. Fresh air and sunlight just make everything a bit brighter.
2. Clean the kitchen. I know it sounds crazy, because who lives to grab the Windex? But, having a clean space does make us feel less cluttered and more productive. Why else would there be so many magazines, blogs and Pinterest boards dedicated to beautiful homes and comforting rooms?
3. Nourish my body. Food. It sounds simple, but it’s effective. If I’m hungry, no doubt a raging headache is on its way and who feels good when a bass drum is pounding between your eyeballs? I also love to cook and find that being creative in the kitchen is a great way to nurture creativity in my writing.
4. Nourish my soul. Food is for my body, but books are for my soul. When I’m not writing, I’m reading. I also love guilty pleasures on television that take me away to other times and let me meet interesting characters.
So, let’s analyze the above. For argument’s sake, let’s assume I got a terrible book review (it happens) and I’m in the dumps. Do I decide never to write again? No way! Although I do admit that I might need to take a day off so I’m going to open my curtains, smell the fresh air, clean my space so that I can prepare a yummy meal and eat it while reading a great book or escaping into my favorite television series. I’m willing to bet that by the time that episode of “Pretty Little Liars” is finished, I’m back on track and ready to write!
