Writer Advice Rebellion: Writer's Block Doesn't Exist.

Writer's block doesn't exist. 

Excuse me while I bang my head against this brick wall for a moment. 

takes deep breath 

Yes. It does. End of discussion. 

Of course, that is not the end of the discussion because someone always has to point out that it doesn't exist for them. 

"Just park yourself in front of the keyboard and start writing. Don't get up until you have words. If you don't have words, make yourself sit there until you do." 

I know I've mentioned before my absolute, soul-deep disdain for mashed potatoes. I once sat at a table for three hours because I refused to take three bites of my mashed potatoes. 

Writing shouldn't be mashed potatoes. 

There are a million reasons why your story may not be pouring magically from your fingertips. Very, VERY few of them can be solved by forcing yourself to sit at the desk and stare at a screen. 

Here is what super annoys me about this particular piece of wisdom. 

It doesn't just happen to writers. 

Professional athletes have moments when they can't perform. The coach doesn't make them stay in the game and keep pitching until their arm hurts, even though it's just damaging their confidence. 

They get pulled for a minute. Patted on the back, told to walk it off, and take a breather. 

Writers could benefit from that treatment as well. 

Yes, there are times when writers are in avoidance mode. It happens. Often, there are layers upon layers of reason for that. Burnout, stress, fear, imposter syndrome, the need to think through the next plot point, and so many more.

What is important is to address WHY you are blocked.

Do you need to talk out the plot?

Do you need to admit your fears and find a coping mechanism?

Rather than berating yourself or refusing to accept the block, what steps need to happen to get you writing again?

So when you are blocked, take a breather. 

It isn't because you are lazy. Honestly, if you were lazy, you probably wouldn't even care that you aren't writing. 

It isn't because you are a hack, untalented, or never going to write again. 

It isn't because you aren't disciplined or serious enough about your career. 

When you free yourself from those thoughts and accept that something is a problem, it allows you to address what it truly is. 

If you need more help breaking through what's blocking you, consider booking a story consultation or Code Red brainstorming call.