Breaking Writer’s Block

I don’t believe in writer’s block as an ailment, in and of itself.  It doesn’t just belong to writers for one thing.  Nor does it have anything to do with writing, particularly.  It is merely a symptom of something much bigger and more pervasive than just being “blocked” from writing.

I do, however, subscribe to Julia Cameron’s take that the well is dry.  It is possible, when you’ve worked too hard, are under a lot of stress, or just completed a large project, to feel empty. This is a much more positive and workable image.  Instead of having to “break through” or smash a block, you simply and elegantly refill the well.  Sounds like a lot more fun, too.

Some ways to “fill the well” are to get out in nature and observe it, lightly and respectfully.  You can take special care of yourself at this time.  Lie in a hot bath, get a soothing massage, or eat some fresh fruit.  I always like to hear live music to stir things up.  But any kind of “Artist’s Date” as Julia calls them, will do.  Wander through a museum and see how you feel afterwards.  I used to visit antiques stores or thrift shops looking at all the objects.  Julia insists that for artists of any stripe, this is a mandatory, planned and executed, weekly event to keep the well filled.

If I cannot make a full-fledged Artist’s Date, I sometimes try colorful catalogs.  Anything that gets your senses going will bring a swell into your well.

In my writing corner, I am an advocate of showing up at the desk.  Nothing breeds writing like writing, I always say.  Sometimes I use Natalie Goldberg’s Writing Practice – 10 minutes of uncensored writing on a specific topic. Free writing is similarly designed to loosen muscles, open hearts and allow the well to refill.

For me, at times, within a busy schedule, it’s enough just to give myself the gift of a block of time. By allowing myself permission to have quiet time to write, I can sometimes fill the well to overflowing in a short time.

Some use drugs or stimulants to get them going.  I’m of the mind that most such triggers take more than they give and in the end leave you feeling even more depleted.   A light, healthy meal can offer more long-lasting rejuvenation.

It may be best to stay away from things which zap your energy and time, like the Internet, a heavy, fat-laden meal, or people who bring you down.

What’s most important here, I think, is to reframe Writer’s Block into something you have more control over.  Something you can manage.  I wish you all full wells!