Navigating Writer's Block: Overcoming Creative Challenges

Oct 7

Writer's block—it’s the bane of every author’s existence. One minute, you're flowing with ideas; the next, you're staring at a blank page, feeling like your creativity’s evaporated into thin air.

As the owner of The Bookish Studio, a creative agency dedicated to helping authors, and a fantasy romance author myself, I’ve been there more times than I’d like to admit. But here’s the good news: there are ways to break through that wall.

In this blog, we’ll explore actionable tips to help you navigate writer’s block. From moving your body to pulling tarot cards, these strategies are designed to reignite your creative spark and get those words flowing again.

The Power of Movement:
From Yoga Mat to Writing Desk

When the words stop coming, sometimes the best thing to do is to step away from the keyboard and move your body.

As a former yoga teacher, I’ve learned firsthand that physical movement isn’t just good for the body—it’s a powerful tool for the mind, too. Whether it’s rolling out your yoga mat for some gentle stretches or going for a brisk walk, getting your blood pumping can help clear mental blocks.

The Science Behind Movement and Creativity

Research supports the idea that physical movement can boost creative thinking. A study published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology found that walking, especially in nature, can significantly enhance creativity. The rhythmic movement of walking, combined with the change in environment, stimulates the brain in a way that sitting at a desk simply doesn’t.

Incorporating Movement into Your Writing Routine

Consider moving a daily ritual. Even a quick five-minute stretch session can make a huge difference in your creative flow. And it’s not just about the physical benefits; moving your body can shift your perspective, making it easier to approach your writing from a fresh angle. If yoga or walking isn’t your thing, try dancing, swimming, or any other activity that gets you moving. The key is to find what works for you and make it a regular part of your creative process.

Connect with Nature:
Find Inspiration Outdoors

There’s something incredibly grounding about being in nature. Whether you’re wandering through a forest, sitting by a river, or just tending to your garden, nature has a way of calming the mind and sparking creativity. The next time you feel stuck, try stepping outside.

Nature’s Role in Boosting Creativity

Research has shown that spending time in nature can reduce stress and improve focus—both essential for creativity. According to a study by the University of Michigan, interacting with nature, even in small doses, can significantly improve memory and attention, which are crucial for creative work.

Bringing Nature into Your Writing Practice

You don’t need to embark on a wilderness adventure to benefit from nature’s creative boost. A simple walk in the park, a few minutes of mindful breathing in your backyard, or even just sitting by a window with a view of the trees can do wonders. Take a notebook with you, find a quiet spot under a tree, and let the sounds and sights of the natural world work their magic. If you live in an urban area, consider adding plants to your workspace to bring a bit of the outdoors inside.

Tarot for Writers:
A Different Kind of Creative Tool

Now, here’s a less conventional tip: pull out a deck of tarot cards. It might sound a bit mystical, but tarot can be a fantastic tool for sparking ideas and overcoming writer’s block. Chelsea Pippin Mizzi, a fellow creative and a future guest on my podcast The Bookish Journey, swears by it. She uses tarot to tap into her subconscious, uncovering themes and narratives that might not have surfaced otherwise. Plus, she wrote a book about it called “Tarot for Creativity” that will come out in October in the US and November all over the world.

How Tarot Can Enhance Creativity

Tarot cards work by offering prompts that encourage you to think outside the box. Each card carries symbolic imagery and meanings that can help you explore different facets of your story or character. For example, drawing the Fool card might prompt you to think about new beginnings or a character’s journey of self-discovery. The Tower card could inspire ideas around upheaval or transformation.

Practical Tips for Using Tarot in Your Writing

The beauty of tarot is that it doesn’t just give you answers—it asks you questions, prompts you to think deeper, and encourages you to explore different angles. Next time you’re staring at that blank page, shuffle your deck and see what the cards have to say. You might be surprised at the inspiration they bring. If you’re new to tarot, start with a simple three-card spread: past, present, and future. Use the cards as a guide to develop a new scene, character, or plot twist.

Embrace the Creative Process:
Lessons from Julia Cameron and Elizabeth Gilbert

Creativity is a fickle friend. It comes and goes as it pleases, but there are ways to coax it back when it seems to have wandered off. Julia Cameron, author of The Artist’s Way, suggests a daily practice of “Morning Pages”—three pages of stream-of-consciousness writing done first thing in the morning. It’s not about creating polished prose; it’s about clearing out the mental clutter so that real creativity can flow.

The Morning Pages Ritual

The idea behind Morning Pages is simple: write three pages of whatever comes to mind as soon as you wake up. It doesn’t have to be coherent, and it doesn’t have to be good. The point is to dump all the noise in your head onto the page, freeing up space for more focused, creative thinking. Many authors have found that this practice not only helps them overcome writer’s block but also sparks new ideas and insights.

Elizabeth Gilbert’s Perspective on Creativity

On the other hand, Elizabeth Gilbert, in her book Big Magic, uses the metaphor of ideas as “flying entities” that visit us, seeking a willing partner to bring them to life. Gilbert suggests that ideas are constantly swirling around us, looking for a collaborator. If we’re not ready to act on them, they’ll move on to someone else. This perspective encourages authors to show up for their creativity, even when it feels elusive. By consistently writing, even on days when inspiration is hard to come by, you’re inviting those “flying ideas” to land.

The Role of Routine:
Finding Your Creative Rhythm

Routine might seem like the enemy of creativity, but for many writers, it’s the exact opposite. Establishing a daily writing habit, even if it’s just for 15 minutes, can train your brain to show up and do the work. It’s not about waiting for inspiration to strike—it’s about creating the conditions for it to arrive.

Building a Sustainable Writing Routine

Set a specific time each day dedicated solely to writing. Treat it as non-negotiable. Whether it’s first thing in the morning, during your lunch break, or late at night, consistency is key. Over time, this routine becomes a signal to your brain: it’s time to write. Even if you don’t produce your best work every day, the act of sitting down to write builds momentum, and with momentum comes inspiration.

Balancing Routine with Flexibility

While routine is important, it’s also essential to be kind to yourself when life gets in the way. If you miss a day, don’t beat yourself up—just pick up where you left off. The goal is progress, not perfection. Remember, creativity thrives on both structure and spontaneity, so find a balance that works for you.

Keep Moving Forward

Writer’s block is tough, but it doesn’t have to be a permanent state. By incorporating movement, nature, tarot, and the wisdom of creatives like Julia Cameron and Elizabeth Gilbert into your routine, you can break through those blocks and keep your creative momentum going.

And remember, the journey of writing is as much about the process as it is about the end product. So, embrace the challenges, trust in your creative abilities, and most importantly, keep writing.