Writer’s Block, Anyone?

Writer’s Block?
Even if you are the most prolific writer in the world, you will one day likely experience the dreaded phenomenon known as “Writer’s Block!” It’s like a demon that appears suddenly from nowhere, grabs you by the brain and won’t let you go. Scary? Yes, but worry not. There is a cure!

Plan Ahead!
Before the terror of Writer’s Block appears in your writing room, take a minute, breathe and get ready to write! You are going to create a list called “My Authority List.”

The Authority List!
Often writers don’t realize all the things they actually know something about. Whether you know a lot or a little, start writing your list by naming all the things you know something about. Stumped already? Don’t be. You are either a son or daughter to begin with. Do you have siblings? If so, you are also a sister or brother and have shared times with these family members so you have memories. What are some of your finest (and/or worst) memories? Friends? Who are they? A pet? What do you know about your cat or dog? List the things you like: chocolate, a sandy beach, blueberry pie. List the things you don’t like: shoveling snow, a flat tire, being lonely. List your heartaches and your happiest moments ever. List your hobbies, the books you’ve read, the movies you’ve liked or disliked. What about charities you think are wonderful; whether you support them financially or not, they are a good list item as you can quickly find information about them and write a promotional article.

It’s All About You!
Are you getting the drift here? Your Authority List is all about you! Everything and anything you know, have ever done or wish to do in the future. Everything you’ve ever experienced. Every celebration you’ve ever had, attended or planned. You will find as your list grows—maybe even to your great surprise—that you are actually quite an authority on many things!

Choosing An Item!
From your Authority List, choose an item. If need be, close your eyes and point! The whole idea is to get started writing again!

The Item List!
Next, you will make a second list, the “Item List.” The Item List will consist of everything you can think of about the chosen item. What is it? Who works or plays with it? What is my experience with it? When did I first learn about it? What are the main points of interest about it to me? To others? Is it a deeply personal item or do I wish to share it? Answer all of these questions as you examine the item you have chosen.

Free Writing:
Now, based on the Item List you have created and without editing or questioning your words, start writing. Write about each entry on the Item List. Don’t stop. Just continue writing until you have covered all the entries on your Item List. You can go back and edit your work later. But, for now, you have created a new piece of written work. Give yourself a pat on the back! You have conquered the dreaded Writer’s Block!

Add and Update Your Authority List:
Don’t forget to add to and update your Authority List often! You will be able to go back again and again to your Authority List whenever you need a subject to write about. It will save you from the agony of Writers block as often as needed. And it will provide you with a vast and varied personal bank of information for future writings.