Overcome Writers Block with Snake Dancing Judy Cullins, M.A. c. 2003 All Rights ReservedWriters block! Even columnist Dave Berry has it. He admits that at least 30 times a day when writing his humor column, he gets up from his computer to sip his Pepsi and to divert his attention when he can't think of what to write. Recently, he reached for
cola and instead found a coiled snake. He tried barbecue tongs to carry it away, but when it landed in his pool, he kept
dance going trying to catch
thing.
As a writer you may think you are blocked because you think your book may not be significant enough, you don't know how to format it, or since you aren't famous, your book won't sell. Or, like Dave you can't think of something great to say.
Let
book coach encourage you beyond your doubts. Know that your book is unique and offers useful solutions to help your audience solve their challenge or problem. You don't have to write like others, and yes, you can write a saleable book.
What is Writer's Block?
To me it's just that I'm distracted and don't seem organized enough with what's important to write for my particular audience. It's a signal that my brain won't focus temporarily. Like Dave Berry, I need a break.
To some of you, it's like stepping off a cliff and plunging into
abyss. You don't have all
answers to start, so it becomes overwhelming to even put words to paper..
Why do we have Writer's Block?
1. We have too many ideas/ choices. We need to focus on one thing at a time. Write down 3-4 topics you are passionate about. Take some deep breaths, and let
#1 come forth. Write on one book primarily, and just put new ideas into
others' folder. Stay with your #1 book until you finish it. When we don't finish a project, we feel guilty--and hence more stuck!
2. Fear. Really, "False Evidence Appearing Real." Our performance anxiety keeps us from taking that next step.However, we can get direction and skills from a how-to book on writing or a qualified book coach if we are willing.
3. We don't have enough information to move forward to write a clear, compelling book. Perhaps we aren't sure of how to publish our book. Or, we don't know how to put a chapter together. Book writing information is easily available from
Internet. Do a search on "book coaching" and find helpful resources.