Put Down That Hammer: Busting Blogger’s Block

October 19, 2009 — blogger's block, Blogging, writer's block, Writing

Between client projects, attending the Copywriting Success Summit 2009 and fighting with a head cold for the last two weeks, my blog writing time has been limited. When a reader commented that she’d suffered from writer’s block recently, it occurred to me that I actually had a case of blogger’s block.

For the last six-plus months, posting three times a week has felt effortless and I always made it a priority. That energy paid off in fantastic new readers as well as links to some of my posts by bloggers I admire. Then October arrived and I stumbled. And I haven’t been able to get back on track.

In reviewing what’s worked for me before—whether I was stuck on a post or just having a rough week—here’s what I found:

• Personal struggles: One of my most personal posts ever generated a huge response from readers and on Twitter. I was still wrestling with how I felt about the situation and sharing it here made a big difference. It’s amazing what a commiserating comment can do for helping you realize you’re not alone with an issue. If you’re stuck on your next blog post, try writing about something that you’re grappling with on a personal level.

• Get opinionated: Have you noticed a hot topic in your niche or industry? Did another blogger’s post get you a little steamed? Or did the blogger eloquently state her opinion on the topic, inspiring you to respond with the other side of the issue? Do it. Especially when done respectfully, entering a debate can open up a number of new connections and fuel your writing. My piece on Writing Mills was written from my gut; I feel strongly about it. I never expected it to find legs of its own! It’s my most linked-to post, at least so far.

• Blog for days: This may sound counterintuitive to busting blogger’s block, but it can work. If you decide to blog for seven, fourteen or even thirty-one consecutive days, it can help you get over yourself. Meaning, you don’t do as much self-editing because you don’t have time to waste. If you go this route, it’s also a good idea to share it with your readers—they can cheer you on and even stir post ideas. It’s the same idea behind NaNoWriMo and The WordCount Blogathon.

• Walk away: If nothing can break your blogger’s block, it is okay to step away. One of the most refreshing vacations I’ve ever had was one where I couldn’t use my phone and I had no access to the Internet or TV. I returned from that trip bursting with ideas and eager to write. Your break doesn’t have to be that extreme. It can be as simple as a walk around the block, a movie or picking up a new book. Do something that will engage your imagination and you’ll be surprised at what your brain can work out when you’re not forcing it.

How do you battle blogger’s block? Please share in the comments.