I Don't Wanna
Writer's block sucks. There's no silver lining to it. There's a story weaving and building in your mind, consuming your thoughts in an obsessive manner that's hard to digest. Yet the words have escaped just as smoothly as your antagonist right before the climax.
Add a layer of concentration obstacles, adhd, parenthood, work, life, and you're pinned in a corner wondering who you are and where do you go from here.
Here's the thing though, it's not always writer's block. It can be executive dysfunction preventing you from doing those dishes. It could be the need to put together that project for work that you have been setting on the back burner for six months. It could be hanging that picture in the bedroom that's been there since you bought it at Ikea.
It's knowing you have something that can lighten your load, and you're not able to get through it. But it's so easy to do! Right?
Even assuming you're right, you're still wrong. You can't guilt yourself into doing it and believe it's gonna work out. Yearsof being guilt tripped by adults when we were kids taught us that one. You'll only make yourself feel worse.
Start with pieces. Break everything up and let the juices start going. You can't drive a diesel vehicle without letting it warm up, and turning the key is only the first step.
Writer's block? Forget the book directly. Write a prompt for something completely unrelated to your story, and use your character(s). What's to stop you from fleshing them out and laying more foundation for your story? Is it easier? Do it.
Executive dysfunction? Organize the mess first. When my dishes are staring me down, I organize it without thinking about washing yet. Plates stack appropriately. Cups are dumped out and filled with soap water. Utensils are soaking in a cup. I organize the dirty dishes, then start going through the piles.
Project? Loop someone in on it. Let them hold you accountable and be there with you to give yourself a little bit of a break from flying solo. There's no rule that states you must do it alone. Unless your boss is an ass, but that's another story.
Remember to take breaks. Take the break that works for you the best. Step outside and get fresh air. Take a short walk, even if you're still staying inside.
More importantly, give yourself the space to accept the days that nothing happens. You likely need the rest and your brain is telling you to go out yourself in time out. That also means days you can't find the ability to write.
Here are some methods I use to help be productive when I have writer's block:
Write a prompt.
Flesh out character traits, mannerisms, and anything else you can think of. What shows do they watch? What car do they drive?
Build a mood board.
Write trash. You can fix it later, or delete it. You never know what may grow from that.
I hope this helps. Comment below your tips and tricks to get rolling again.
