Steps to Overcome Blogger’s Block!
May 14, 2008 by Sarah
Filed under Read These!
…I’m having trouble figuring out how to start this one…
So much for overcoming Blogger’s Block, (also known as writer’s block), right? Actually, I’m using my first strategy! (stay tuned)
First I analyzed the reasons I have Blogger’s Block.
- I’m busy! The end of April and May are crazy for two music teachers and three little performers! We have some kind of rehearsal or performance every weekend, and many of the weekdays, too. I’ve also been busy with my blog design business, and a local small business.
- Because of being so busy, I haven’t been reading and commenting on other blogs. So much inspiration comes from reading what others say. Also, if I’m not commenting, my comments slow down, too. (We all know comments are what keep us hooked!)
- I have been having a little trouble managing my anxiety level, lately. I’ve made some changes and I’m doing much better. If I’m overwhelmed and stressed, I just want to sit on the couch with a bowl of Baked Doritos with sour cream, and veg! I don’t know about you… (stay tuned for the post on managing anxiety – if I ever figure it out!)
Next I figured out some strategies. It hasn’t been too long, but at least for now, they’re working.
- Step awaaaay from the computer! I actually stopped reading blogs at all for a while. Looking at a Google Reader with 500 posts wasn’t helping. So while I took some time to manage my anxiety, I stopped all together. I wouldn’t recommend this for more than a week, though.
- Take some time just to live life, without thinking, “How can I write about this?” Creativity flows best out of experience, and if you’re not “in the moment” you won’t truly experience the very things you’re trying to write about.
- Tell your readers you’re having a bout of Blogger’s Block. Most bloggers have been through it before, and if you let them know, they’ll encourage you, pray for you if needed, and welcome you back when you join the blogosphere again.
- Start reading and commenting again. First, clear out your reader. You want to start with a clean slate. Start with a few of your good bloggy friends, then branch out. Maybe one of your favorite bloggers will inspire you. (Be sure to link to them to thank them)
- Find some memes to participate in. Collaboration is at the heart of the blogosphere, and joining together with others can recharge your batteries.
- Just DO it! Sometimes I put so much pressure on myself to have the perfect opening line, hilarious jokes, or deep spiritual truths. The truth is, it doesn’t really matter that much. What matters is showing your personality, being real, just getting something out on the screen!
So, that’s all I’ve got for ya. How’s that for a closing! How do you overcome Blogger’s Block?
For more Works For Me Wednesday, visit Rocks in My Dryer.
LOL – I’ll let you know when I become “unblocked”
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Fabulous tips!
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A couple of weeks ago I opened my reader and just clicked “mark all as read” for every blog I have in there. I hadn’t read any for a few days and just couldn’t let myself take the time it would have cost to read all the back posts.
I guess that was me stepping away from the computer and living life.
Kim @ TheBitterBall
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As a freelance writer and author of several books I deal with writer’s block often. For me the best solution is total freedom from distractions. Sometimes that means going somewhere else and not taking my cell phone. If I can find peace and quiet and just “be still” eventually the words come. Love your blog! Teresa
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Thank you for the great tips! I tend to feel this way often. Especially when I read blogs in which the writers are so eloquent and have soooo much to say about their everyday life. My life seems boring after that.
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Sarah, I actually put strategy #2 in practice last weekend. Thanks for all the great tips. It has been busy at our house for the last 3 months. I am sooooo looking forward to summer break. Blessings.
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I just listen to my mouth…it’s always in motion and rarely have I suffered from “nothing” to write about. My life is way too messy for that!
On another note, I jumped over to look at some of the designs you’ve done. Beautiful work. May God grow your business to his glory and fame.
Be blessed. I always enjoy hopping over for a visit.
peace~elaine
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Since I’m new to blogging, I haven’t experienced a block yet, but I thought about it. I am determined that when that day comes, I will still post and just say “I don’t have anything fabulous to say today” or just ask a question (no matter how lame)and hope that some commenters will answer. I will remember your tips.
I love your blog because of who you are – it comes out no matter what you post about. Your posts don’t have to be perfect or fabulous – we still enjoy them!
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Until today I haven’t written on my blog for almost a month. I am very good about keeping up with the 50 blogs that I read, but was neglecting my own. Today I put in a WFMW post. At the end I asked my readers to leave me a comment so that I would know people are reading it. I think seeing their comments will encourage me to keep writing.
I think another part of my writers block is that I want to expand my blog from just about my dd to other things I want to write about, but I haven’t had the courage yet. I need to take your advice and “JUST DO IT”
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Beer works for me.
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When I have writers block, I just blog hop and hope something will inspire me.
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Great post, Sarah. The stresses of life are one of my biggest struggles. I totally hear you on taking time out of life to just live!
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WOW! What a great time to read that! I have had exactly the same problem! So busy that I actually pass myself in the hallway sometimes!!! Thanks for sharing tips on how to remedy this situation!
Blessings~
Lori
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I just started my first blog this week, so I have several ideas at this point and I’m just trying to make them sound halfway intelligent. I’ve been reading random blogs just to figure out how other people do things. I’ll keep your pointers in mind for when I get blocked. It’s good to find other Christians on here.
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I understand this so well! Sometimes life just gets so busy. We’ve had a couple of months of sickness and ups and downs around here. I just hope that most blog readers understand and will be patient with times of slow posting.
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Now you know why I don’t blog. But I like yours.
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Thanks for these tips, Sarah. Several I’m going to try myself this next week.
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