Let's face it, getting writer's block is more than annoying and can put a writer in a rut. But there are ways to get out of it. I'd like to share some ideas to help that have worked for me. Just remember, what works for one writer may not work for another so if one idea doesn't work, try something else. And if those don't work, then keep trying different methods until you find one that works best for you. I'd love to hear your methods in the comments below. Thank you!!!
If you are stuck, try reading the last paragraph before that point. As you're reading, be prepared to keep writing from the last word on. Keep going. Don't think about it, just add on. You can always delete later. The important thing to remember is that you need to keep moving forward. The first round is you telling the story to yourself so it doesn't have to be perfect. Just get the story out of your mind. Worry about mistakes later.
If that doesn't work, maybe there's something else wrong. Again, read through the last page. Try reading it aloud. An error in the plot or setting could hinder your creative juices. It's not always the case, but it has happened. Changing one sentence or one paragraph can actually remove that block. It's the character's way of saying, "I'm not budging until that skunk is off my path!" Remove the "skunk" and your character could possibly be ready to move forward in the story. Maybe he/she doesn't like the way another character strolled into the room. Maybe she wants to fall in love with the dark-mysterious man and you're having different ideas about their relationship. Getting on the same page with your character is important.
If you have tried both methods, and you're still stuck, it could possibly be non-writing-related. You could be over-tired, hungry, or just need a break. Try working on those physical needs and then get back to the story once you have the break needed. Just like any other job that's physical, sometimes you just need a break. So go to the bathroom. Have that snack. Smoke that cigarette. Go outside for some fresh air. Eat lunch or dinner. Let your mind unwind and freshen up. Physical problems can affect mental ones and vice versa. And writing a book can take a toll on your body, treat it well.
Now you've done all 3 and you're still stuck. If taking a break or reading doesn't help, try shifting your mind to something else altogether. Read a book. Try writing another story, even if it's not something you intend on publishing. Shifting gears to another writing project could help you get over the hump and stay creative.
Talk to another writer. Chances are, he or she has been there. There are a number of reasons why your character doesn't want to move forward. Asking someone to read over what you have, could open the floor for new ideas from another perspective.
Take a nap or sleep on it. Sometimes an idea can come to your dreams.
Go to the mall or somewhere else that relates to your story. If it's a bar scene, go to a bar. People-watching is something I enjoy doing because conversations can inspire things. Yes, eavesdropping is and can be very helpful. Just don't be obvious about it.
Quitting is never the answer but stopping for the day, or even a week, can let your mind rest. No one has ever written a book in a day so don't rush. It takes time. All writers write at their own speed, or at least they should lol. This isn't a competition. There's no race. And no one will judge you if your book took longer than you set the goal for. Remember, goals can be changed.
Ask "what if". You can ask a crazy question or a realistic one. Have fun. Sometimes just being silly can lighten the mood and push you right through that wall. It can happen.
Even if the story is fictional, try to think of the scene in the real world. How would a real living person handle the situation? The answer could inspire your creative juices.
Research can also help. The Internet isn't just for socializing. If you're stuck because you don't know how something works then look it up. Ask a professional in the field you're writing about. If your character is a doctor, talk to a doctor who practices in the same field as your character. Chances are, that person will be flattered you spoke to them about it. And that's a bonus because now someone knows about your book which could be a potential reader and that's always a good thing.
Interview your MC. I read this one in a book and actually tried it. I felt silly but it was fun. Set two chairs in the middle of the room. Sit in one chair and as the writer, ask the MC the questions aloud. Now switch chairs and answer those questions as that MC. Again, answer aloud. Put yourself in his/her shoes, be that character. Sometimes, the answers are there and you're just missing them. Having a conversation with him/her can open things up a little more than just sitting at the keyboard or the paper (if you're writing long-hand). Have fun.
And there you have. That's my list of ideas to help manage writer's block. Sometimes one will work one time and not another so don't depend on the particular method. Be creative. Have fun. Stay positive. Don't allow yourself to become negative about it. It's really hard to shake once it takes hold. And don't get frustrated. Even the best authors get writer's block sometimes. It is all part of the process. You can go a whole book without getting the block and then turn around and get dozens of blocks for the next book. Just work through it, be patient, and don't give up. You must believe that you are a writer and that you're the best writer for that story. Only you know the reasons. Remember those reasons and push through. You will make it. Just keep trying and keep moving forward. You got this!