Written on October 25th, 2009 at 12:10 am by Darren Rowse
How Do You Overcome Bloggers Block?
It hits every blogger at some point in their blogging – bloggers block.
Whether it’s not being able to come up with a topic or whether it strikes midway through a post in which you just can’t seem to find a way to express yourself – bloggers block sucks.
So how do you over come it?
I once wrote a series of tips on the topic of battling bloggers block – but I’m interested to hear your own techniques for getting through these tough patches on a blog – what advice would you give a blogger struggling with it?
109 Responses to “How Do You Overcome Bloggers Block?” - Add Yours
Matt
October 25th, 2009 2:03 am
I just put blogging on the backburner and make sure to read other blogs in a variety of niches. Something will spark after reading enough.
Case Stevens
October 25th, 2009 2:07 am
Open up Text editor and start writing. Even if it’s nonsense.
Because most of the time it IS!
But…
at some point I remember things I have to do or are important and most of the time that will trigger a topic that I can write about.
Sounds stupid, but it often helps.
Kevin (strongandfit.net)
October 25th, 2009 2:09 am
Usually I just don’t post until I’m inspired again.
But here are a few ideas:
*Check out the news and see if there’s anything that gives you ideas.
*Go to your forums and see what people are asking and talking about.
*See if there’s another part of your niche you aren’t exploring. Example: I’ve started a “stop smoking” section on my fitness blog.
Ivan Walsh
October 25th, 2009 2:09 am
Rewards!
For example, give yourself a target of 10 posts and then once you’re finished give yourself some treat, maybe that book you wanted but was a little too expensive.
Whatever works…
Jeffrey Tang
October 25th, 2009 2:14 am
One thing that helps is finding the right topic to write about. If I’m halfway through a draft and seriously stuck, I’ll usually save it and try tackling a different topic. Rinse and repeat until I find the one that clicks.
It’s also helpful to go browse through my RSS reader for a while looking for ideas. Or, as I’ve been doing a lot more lately, going to Google Blog Search and doing some detective work. As an added bonus, I often find great posts to link to.
I’m also becoming aware of how important it can be to let go of what you’ve already written. Sometimes I get very attached to the draft of my post, and it’s not until I force myself to delete and start over that I get past the bloggers’ block.
I guess the last thing would be knowing the difference between bloggers’ block and laziness. If you’re really and truly stuck, it might be time to take a break. But if you’re stuck because you don’t feel like giving a difficult topic the effort it deserves, then it’s time to push yourself forward.
borborigmus
October 25th, 2009 2:17 am
I use a simple text file saved to the desktop and jot down every single phrase that might flower into a full post one day. I’ve even actually used some of these ideas a few times! But the real value of this for me is in pre-sensitising my personal radar so that I better recognise, and respond to, the the things and events that are always around me.
Onepot
October 25th, 2009 2:21 am
My blog (which, granted, is still in its infancy) is about food. And, since we cook and eat every day no matter what, I have so far not experienced a shortage of topics. It’s just a matter of writing it all up after eating. :-)
Tessa Shepperson
October 25th, 2009 2:27 am
I have your 31 days book Darren, and when I have a block I get it up and read through it. Generally after looking over a few days worth I start getting ideas and am able to get something written.
In fact last time this happened, I got inspired (not sure how, these things just happen) to do my Urban Myths series http://landlordlaw.blogspot.com/search/label/Urban%20Myths, which is now one of my fallback topics!
So thanks for doing the book. It was well worth the money.
Andy Koehn
October 25th, 2009 2:28 am
I just start writing anything. I have a lot of pages filled with, “Jeez! Here I am again with nothing to say. I HATE this. OK…so…boy these socks are really stupid looking. Why would I pick these out. Why and how did we decide that tube socks aren’t cool anymore?” And then some how…some way…lessons present themselves.
I’m lucky because I don’t write about anything really. I just write about me…and what I see. I marvel at tech writers and such. How you know all that stuff I’ll never know.
Anne Lyken-Garner
October 25th, 2009 2:30 am
When I’m suffering a bloggers block, I search for the trending (hot) topics on the Internet, research one of them, and write about it.
This usually cures my block for a while. I can then go on to doing my own thing until the next time.
This serves me in two ways:
1. I get to write something (anything).
2. Visits to my blog encourages me to blog again.
Hope this helps.
Lydia, Clueless Crafter
October 25th, 2009 2:35 am
Jeffrey T, I totally agree with you . I think it’s very easy to chalk up lassitude as writer’s block. It’s a clever way out, but we should be aware of this trick and tackle it head on.
Rick Haaland
October 25th, 2009 2:47 am
Well, this is a sticky situation. Throughout my daily activities, I always have a pen and a small pad of paper. If I get a brainstorm about a great subject that I feel would contribute to the masses, I jot it down on the paper. These small pieces of paper can hold about 10 quick notes. I do this constantly, and keep all of the papers in a drawer in my office. If I do get bloggers block, I dig into my collection of idea notes, and usually, can trigger a ‘thought-train’ that can help me complete the entry, or, if I’m really stuck, I can quickly pick another subject and it just seems to ‘flow’ because the notes on my papers were my original ideas to begin with.
rimone
October 25th, 2009 2:54 am
mine’s more of a diary blog and since i made it through a particularly horrible (and unusual) childhood, there’s no end to the material i can write about when i’m reminiscing (especially when i find a LOLcat that says it all).
when i’m too busy working to really get into it, i usually use a quote by a famous person, a friend or whomever else as a jumping-off point to indicate how i’m feeling on any particular day.
Mark Wolfinger
October 25th, 2009 2:54 am
I look for ideas in the writings of other bloggers in my niche. Sometimes I create an entire blog post: What other bloggers are saying” and comment on their posts.
I run an education site (options) and reply to reader’s questions – sometimes in the comments section, but often as a separate post.
Mike CJ
October 25th, 2009 3:03 am
Get away from the PC, get into the fresh air and walk for an hour or two. In a city, in the country, anywhere. Just getting some decent outside stimuli flowing always works for me.
Rob Mangiafico
October 25th, 2009 3:05 am
Jump on Twitter, do a few searches for keywords in your niche, see what the latest buzz is, and jot down a few repeated themes. This can help jump-start the creative process and give you relevant ideas that people are currently discussing.
Rob – LexiConn
Adeel
October 25th, 2009 3:12 am
Leave ur blog for a while ,chill hang with your frnds raom in fresh air.
Charlotte
October 25th, 2009 3:14 am
Why is it only writers who get blocked? I don’t know of any other profession or trade where you can say I can’t work today?
Now that might make an interesting blog! I’ll start researching. Thanks for your post!
Kristine
October 25th, 2009 3:23 am
Blogger’s block, writer’s block….however you might call it. Personally, I 1.) blog about something else other than what I intend to write, 2.) eat chocolates 3.) get off the computer and give in to the temptations of my bed 4.) read some things – I might get an idea or an inspiration or 5.) play the piano or the guitar.
I think that block is a way of saying that ‘hey, you’re pushing yourself too hard,’ or perhaps ‘yes, you’re lazy. go and be lazy for an hour or two.’
Sometimes you just have to give in to those pleasures, and be in a better mood. Once you’re there, words would simply flow.
Brad Vertrees
October 25th, 2009 3:38 am
Bloggers block usually goes away on its own after a day or two for me. I have found, however, I can get back to blogging faster by reading other blogs, searching out news on my topic and not getting stressed out about it.
I think it’s good to get away from the blog and do something active, like go to the gym to get the blood moving. My best blog post ideas always come when I’m away from my computer.
Todd - Home Construction Improvement
October 25th, 2009 3:39 am
Lately I’ve been pulling out a piece of paper each time I get the “block”. I sit down and write down anything little slice of information that comes to mind. 95% of it is useless but from that list I seem to get a spark and finally back in the groove.
InternetHow Blog
October 25th, 2009 3:45 am
I would ssay visit forums in your nieche. You can find lots of questions asked by the members and try to answer those questions in bit detail as a blog post.
Broderick Durisseau
October 25th, 2009 3:58 am
What really helped me was trying something new now. Maybe do an experiment or trial and post the results for the next two weeks/30days/etc. You could test out something that someone said or some fact that people regard as a given. Here’s some advantages I’ve found with my latest trial.
1. You won’t have to “come up” with content because you just post what happens. During this time you’re a reporter more than a creator.
2. You get into a blogging rhythm and you’re less likely to slack off because you’re accountable to your readers to post daily.
3. However long the trial/experiment is = how much time you have to think about other ideas to blog about.
Before you do this make sure your readers would be interested in reading about the trial and try to keep the quality of the posts up.
Jenny
October 25th, 2009 4:04 am
I keep a running list of potential topics and I try to jot down as much detail as I can about the topic when it first pops in my head because it’s often difficult to rejuvenate the excitement about the topic later on. Also, but having a list, sometimes I’ll just hop over to a different topic and see where I can take that one. If all else fails, I just think “It can wait ’til tomorrow. My readers would rather wait an extra day for a good post than read something half-ass because it’s Wednesday and it needs to be published.”
Ramakrishna
October 25th, 2009 4:46 am
I did 3 things with moderate success
1.I used plinky(http://www.plinky.com/) to think on behalf of me
2.i use reblog feature on http://www.mybloglog.com
3.i keep looking for inspiring surroundings or people
Alan Underkofler
October 25th, 2009 4:47 am
I find taking a moment to open my iGoogle page and commenting on a few blogs always helps. Something about reading a few posts instead of writing changes my thought process.
Of course standing up and walking away for a few minutes, going outside, changing your environment, going for a walk or to the gym seems to help me as well.
Patrick Parker
October 25th, 2009 5:03 am
When I get in a lull, I get videos off of YouTube and post them with some fairly minimal commentary on my part. This lets me keep up my post-per-day momentum while only writing a sentence or two.
I take the slack that the Youtube vids give me to rest, read other blogs, and exercise. That has (so far) always worked for me.
Brandon Cox
October 25th, 2009 5:10 am
Personally, I cruise around the net commenting on blogs… kind of like what I’m doing right now. Or, I leave the house and walk around a store, particularly a bookstore, and my mind races.
Surender Sharma
October 25th, 2009 5:19 am
I read blog posts and comments on other blogs of my niche.
Even when any idea spark in my mind that goes on the paper.
Innocent@ Success Principles Online
October 25th, 2009 5:24 am
I used to have that problem of not knowing what topic to write on next, but I’ve since passed through that.
In fact, the problem I’m having now is finding the time to write the loads of topic ideas I have for my blogs. How I get topic ideas? Simple.
1. From the email messages, articles I get from a number of more experienced and successful Internet marketers and bloggers.
2. From reading blog posts of the gurus in my niche, visiting forums and reading comments and posts.
3. From private label articles that I buy.
4. From researching keywords, I get ideas of what topics people could be looking for to read.
5. From the news, including online news media.
Hope this helps.
Angela Mills
October 25th, 2009 5:33 am
Well, maybe this doesn’t apply to me, I have been blogging for only 10 months :) But so far I have not gotten blog-block! My problem is too many ideas and not enough time to write them all.
I have a little notebook in my purse, and one on my nightstand and I jot down little phrases or ideas as they come. I also have a word document on my computer that I am adding to every time I work.
I think if I seriously couldn’t think of anything, I would just spend the day with my kids and forget about it. Honestly, sometimes I wish my brain WOULD turn off!
dan:debtconsolidation-help.net
October 25th, 2009 5:44 am
Thanks Darren for bringing this up.
I basically use a combination of two sources to get article topic ideas for my site.
One, from private label right articles, which are highly informative and valuable to readers. However, I make sure to rewrite them before use.
The second source is comments and posts at forums.
From these sources I get lots of topic ideas, such that Blogger’s block hasn’t been a problem for me.
Andy Gibb
October 25th, 2009 6:03 am
I just keep writing – any old rubbish, no worries about grammar, style or anything. Or even subject matter. And stop when I’ve hit the number of words I want. Then I can walk away and come back and polish later. It’s a bit like the morning pages of the Artist’s Way.
InventingLiz
October 25th, 2009 6:12 am
I try to pre-empt blogger block by having certain types of posts that I do on a regular schedule. I always write a post about what I am thankful for on Tuesdays, on Wednesdays I am Wordless, on Sundays I post a weekly reading list of links I found interesting and think my readers would find useful, on the first day of a month I write about a theme for the month and at the end of the month I sum up how that theme played out during the month. Keeping to a schedule helps me keep going, and that helps me keep my blogging muscle strong!
Scott Magdalein
October 25th, 2009 6:16 am
Practically speaking, my advice would be the same as most of the above suggestions.
However, there’s one “technique” I use for sparking the ideating engine. It’s pretty simple. I find a “virtual” friend on chat, ping a couple to find one that’s not busy, and start up a conversation. I ask questions about them, looking for anything that might be interesting in the life of someone else.
I find that the most innovative and interesting things I blog about come from the relationships in my life.
Blake @ probs blog reviews
October 25th, 2009 6:33 am
I have a tendency to mark a lot of webpages on stumble or digg. When I am having a hard time figuring out what to write I just start going back through things I have enjoyed in the past.
More often than not, I’ll come across something I thought would be good to write about and forgot about it.
The wonder wheel on google is also really helpful. Just search for a topic. The hit the show other button at the top and a sidebar will show up. About halfway down is the wonder wheel. It is a cool way to get from one idea to the next.
Tom - StandOutBlogger.com
October 25th, 2009 6:39 am
I agree with a lot of the others. I step away from my computer and get some fresh air. Jogging is great because it just seems to open your mind to a flood of new ideas – well it does for me anyway.
Paul T. McCain
October 25th, 2009 7:07 am
I’ve found that by doing the following things, I can keep new material on my blog site rather consistently:
(1) If you have an idea, any idea, for a blog post, do something to capture that idea. For me it is making a voice memo to myself on my iPhone.
(2) If you see something interesting on the Internet, use it as a blog post, add a few of your own comments.
(3) SCHEDULE, SCHEDULE, SCHEDULE . . . build up a couple weeks worth of blog posts so that when you hit a dry patch, it won’t prove to be as problematic.
(4) Don’t feel the need to pump out a new post every single day. I like to schedule every-other-day posts, then when I find something new or have an idea for a new post, I can plug them in on the “gaps” between days.
(5) Feature regular “topics” that you post on without fail. Devote certain days of the week to certain topics.
These things have worked for me.
se7en
October 25th, 2009 7:31 am
I publish different things on different days of the week: one day a recipe, one day a craft and so on so its never stale… I have a diary that I carry around and as soon as I get an idea I pop it onto the next available day on that topic… I always have topics a week or two ahead… sometimes I just have to say something out of sequence, but mostly I just work through my diary…
Inspiration is in the eye of the behulder – I am always looking around – surfing mostly: not other mom-blogs that’s too close to my niche: I surf crafts, design, recipes… for inspiration. And if I am desperate for inspiration: people watch! Other folk are full of ideas and I just pop the ideas into the next page in m diary…
Stretch Mark Mama
October 25th, 2009 8:12 am
Ha ha about going “jogging” to generate ideas. If *I* went jogging, all I’d have to blog about is my trip to the hospital.
Stretch Mark Mama
October 25th, 2009 8:17 am
And now I feel compelled to leave a *real* comment.
Whenever I get blogger’s block, I look for a carnival to be a part of — where someone else has set the theme.
Paramendra Bhagat
October 25th, 2009 8:22 am
I guess this blog post was a question rather than an answer.
Pamela Grow
October 25th, 2009 8:29 am
Oftentimes my best cure for “bloggers block” is, as another poster mentioned, a run. I experience tons of creative ideas while out running through the woods (unfortunately my brain is like a sieve and I retain half of them :-).
Conversations with clients will often stimulate blog posts, as will Twitter topics. Readers (and fellow Tweeps) seem drawn to the “7, 6, 10, 15 Ways to … fill in the blank)” topics so sometimes I just start with a number. I’m consistently surprised by how well that works.
Another good way to overcome “bloggers block” is to ask your readers a question :).
cynte415
October 25th, 2009 8:36 am
I always have a few backup posts that I write as extra on “hyperblogging” days (that’s my made-up-on-the-spot antonym to blogger’s block) to make up for those times of mental deficiencies. It also can remind me of interesting stuff that I thought of before.
Mr. I
October 25th, 2009 8:42 am
I do not force myself to combat bloggers blog. If I face such a situation, I usually post a small poll on the blog or do not post at all.
Fruitfulvine2
October 25th, 2009 9:00 am
I’ve not faced bloggers block but it’s great to read how others handle it so that if it happens to me I’ll have advance ammunition.
Jason Koertge
October 25th, 2009 9:56 am
When I feel a block coming on I find it best to remove myself from the situation. Sometimes a walk or some time away from the computer (doing dishes or playing with the kiddos) does the trick.
I blog about my area which happens to be a tourist destination, so I often blog about stuff that I can physically visit. That helps me more than anything. I love packing up the laptop and sitting onsite somewhere blogging.
Tiger Singleton
October 25th, 2009 10:13 am
I would hope there is always the consideration, to question the block without bias judgment. Meaning, lets also consider the idea that this block is a signal of personal direction.
It’s not always something that needs pushed through, as if your required to overcome it.
Beth L. Gainer
October 25th, 2009 1:02 pm
Just write. I agree with comments above: give yourself permission to write crap and then go ahead and do it. You need not publish it until you are happy with the blog’s revision.
Dana@Online Knowledge
October 25th, 2009 2:33 pm
I just read others article and surely some of topic will come to my mind. This technique never fail to overcome my bloggers block.
John Grein
October 25th, 2009 2:39 pm
When I get a block I just take a long walk and my brain starts working again and I come up with many things to write about
Tinh
October 25th, 2009 2:56 pm
It is very useful, but I think I am going to love Google Wave now. Just invited by Google and have 200 free google invites to share. I am a lucky man after many efforts. God blessed me :-)
Tinh
October 25th, 2009 2:57 pm
Sorry, I want to edit that, only 20 invites, not 200. So sorry for my typo mistakes
Ashu
October 25th, 2009 3:01 pm
I guess, there are quite a few ways I get ideas for my blog. The biggest one I guess is keeping myself updated about the latest happening around me. It sometimes happen, I get more than one idea at a time, what I do is write out all ideas and publish them on different dates. Also, constant reading other blogs and some great ones like proBlogger, i keep getting new ideas.
Martin Malden
October 25th, 2009 3:02 pm
I go into the various forums where I’m a member and do a search on ‘WordPress’. In the results I look for people asking questions on WordPress and, when I know the answer, I turn it into a blog post.
A high proportion of my blog posts are answers to questions I found in the forums.
Cheers,
Martin.
Internet Strategist @GrowMap
October 25th, 2009 3:54 pm
Deciding what to write about next is a far larger issue for me than writer’s block; however, if I were stuck I know exactly what I would do. I would go visit all my favorite blogs in my niche and read what they’ve written lately, what questions they’ve asked and what their commentators are discussing.
That would definitely lead to many great ideas and allow me to write about and link to their best content so my blog would benefit them as well as my readers.
edmuse22
October 25th, 2009 5:21 pm
Hi Darren
I’ve learned a lot from your blog, I hope you’re not suffering from this.
What inspires me is reading up on best selling authors and what they have to say about writing. These guys are so passionate, they make your fingers itch to write something.
I also read, read, read and read . . . on old and new subjects. So far the best response I got to a blog was from my 100 best reads list.
The one thing about blogging, especially if you’re blogging full time is that it could get lonely and make you feel isolated. If that’s the case you know the answer – get out and join some real people in some real forums.
Okay I have to go there’s an article on your blog I have to read . . .
Home Jobs
October 25th, 2009 6:04 pm
Getting Ideas for my next post usually comes up when I write a post. While writing a post when we mention about a particular point which needs more explanation and is out of topic of that particular post, I immediately start a draft with the topic that clicked during my post. Other ways are spend some time reading my subscribed RSS feeds, twitter, Television, news papers magazines. I usually find myself blocked when I don’t write for some days usually when I am back after a break or vacations
psp games
October 25th, 2009 6:29 pm
Personally I never run out of the things to blog about. The world is such a mystery. There is always something there to inspire and motivate me.
ZK @ Web Marketing Blog
October 25th, 2009 7:03 pm
My theory is quite simple, I carry note book and pen with myself. Any idea which ever come to my mind. I noted it down, so whenever I want to write a post I just open my note book and can see hundreds of idea.
After getting an idea I started to note down contents point by point with conclusion. When I finish I simply explore them and here is my new post.
Gerry Faehrmann - YourLawnAndGarden
October 25th, 2009 7:19 pm
When I get a Block I go straight to the Laxative Jar…works a treat!
Andertoons
October 25th, 2009 9:29 pm
I find that having certain subjects or themes for each day of the week helps.
I do a cartoon blog and often I do something like:
Monday – Superheroes
Tuesday – My Cartoons
Wednesday – Cards w/ cartoons on them
etc…
Technology Slice
October 25th, 2009 9:41 pm
Step back, get some fresh air and clean your head.
Ryan
October 25th, 2009 10:27 pm
By going into stillness. I find a quiet spot and sit until the chatter in my mind stops. The ‘I can’t think of anything good to write’ stuff. When relaxed enough creative ideas flow to me effortlessly. Works every time.
titan
October 25th, 2009 11:14 pm
it will come and attack our brain. So, let see if your antivirus works in your brain. If not works, thats why blogger block happen. hahha..
Colorado Springs Real Estate by Kathy Torline
October 25th, 2009 11:42 pm
I keep a variety of rough drafts, if I can’t finish them; or they just don’t sound right, I keep them in my draft folders. If I ever get completely stuck on what to write, I just go to my draft folders and finish up something I’ve already got started.
Ellis Traub
October 25th, 2009 11:48 pm
One thing you could do is to ask a question to stimulate feedback…maybe something like “What do you do when you have bloggers’ block?” :-)
Well, it works, doesn’t it?
Since I’m here, I might as well take this opportunity to thank you. Yours is the most valuable blog I subscribe to. While you do get something out of the activity…a lot, I’m sure, given the size of your audience, you always give more than you receive from any one reader.
You’ll always be successful because you’re focused on filling a need and being of value, while the other “pros” are busy taking advantage of their popularity to push stuff and stretch the limits of cyber-hospitality.
So thanks very much for your work!!
Gail @ A Flourishing Life
October 25th, 2009 11:48 pm
I keep a running file of ideas and resources. When I’m ready to write, I take a look and see which one inspires me.
work at home
October 25th, 2009 11:52 pm
My blog is all about work at home. I want to inform people about legitimate work at home jobs and some blogging information that I learn from my blogging experience.
I am writing my blog article myself.
Ian Brodie
October 25th, 2009 11:53 pm
I get “bloggers block” less nowadays since I’ve been taking notes all the time of interesting things I’ve seen or thought of that could turn into blog posts. When I’m short of an idea I just get out the journal and flip through for interesting topics.
Another method is to look over earlier posts I’ve made from a year or so ago. By now my thinking has often gone further and there’s new ideas I can add to the topic. Or it may just trigger me with different ideas.
Ian
Dan McCarthy
October 25th, 2009 11:53 pm
I’ve been blogging for three years, and it hit me really hard about 6 months ago. I wrote a post about it and asked my readers for ideas. In a few days I had a page of potential topics, and many of those ideas sparked related posts. It also gave a a sense for what my readers wanted to know.
Stephen
October 26th, 2009 12:08 am
I find the best way to get over bloggers block is to move away from the computer and go for a good walk. The visual influences I see while I am out, and the lack of pressure to write something always helps.
This solution is even better if the day is windy – I walk to the highest point in our city (which is in the middle of a very large park) and look out over it, I can see the hills in the distance and the urban sprawl in the foreground. Really clears the head.
I can guarantee that every time I go walking I come back with a brimful of ideas, and I feel much better too.
The Hype Is Real
October 26th, 2009 12:10 am
Very Nice !! Keep The Good Work UP !.
Chip Etier
October 26th, 2009 12:15 am
Notes.
Mental and written.
I keep a file on potential blog subjects on a wide variety of topics.
Anything that comes to mind, impresses me, or that I have an opinion about.
Between my job as a pharmacist, my photography biz on the side, and my avocation of officiating high school football, something always pops up.
Thomas MacEntee
October 26th, 2009 12:28 am
For me, I maintain a blog editorial calendar in Evernote in which to place my ideas.
For my blog community of genealogy bloggers, we’ve created a whole week of Daily Blogging Themes such as Tombstone Tuesday (where you post a photo of a gravestone of one of your ancestors and write about it). These can help our new bloggers stay on target for blog posts.
RickSmithAuthor
October 26th, 2009 12:56 am
I carry a note card around with me. When an idea hits me, i write it down. I dont typically have a string of blog posts already written “in the bank”, but i always have a list of ideas from which i can choose to write.
Rick Smith
Josh Building
October 26th, 2009 12:59 am
My method of getting over Blogger’s Block is to go to other blogs and read and make comments. Yours is one of the blogs early on my list. I post links and write myself out of my blockage.
Chris Jones - Free Gadgets
October 26th, 2009 2:14 am
Whenever I have bloggers block I just stand and look out of the windows and watch the world doing its business. It isn’t long before you see something that sparks a thought and you take it from there.
I suppose it all depends on what is going on outside your window though.
Galvahaha
October 26th, 2009 2:30 am
Well, this is a sticky situation. Throughout my daily activities, I always have a pen and a small pad of paper. If I get a brainstorm about a great subject that I feel would contribute to the masses, I jot it down on the paper. These small pieces of paper can hold about 10 quick notes. I do this constantly, and keep all of the papers in a drawer in my office. If I do get bloggers block, I dig into my collection of idea notes, and usually, can trigger a ‘thought-train’ that can help me complete the entry, or, if I’m really stuck, I can quickly pick another subject and it just seems to ‘flow’ because the notes on my papers were my original ideas to begin with.
Cheryl Andonian aka Momblebee
October 26th, 2009 2:33 am
I’ve got a good one. Next time you have writer’s block, how about writing a post asking your readers what they do when they have writer’s block. They’ll do the writing for you… ; )
Krzysztof Lis
October 26th, 2009 5:15 am
I don’t. I try to write as much as possible when I have enough time and ideas to write about. If I’m lucky, I have posts prepared for a week in advance (I write to more than a dozen of diffferent blogs). If I come to a point when I don’t know what to write, I just wait for that block to pass — the prepared posts are published, though, so from the reader’s perspective nothing changes.
Syed Akram
October 26th, 2009 5:31 am
There are a lot of ways for me to overcome this “blogger block”. I just post some ideas in my blog with the title “How to Find Ideas What to Write on Your Blog Everyday” which you can read it and give comments or maybe add your ideas too.
Vance Sova
October 26th, 2009 6:02 am
Hi Darren,
At least for me there are two types of writers blocks.
One is not knowing what to write about, a lack of a subject.
The second one is knowing which subject to write on and getting stuck somewhere in the middle of writing or even close to the beginning.
In the first case what helps me is to plant the “find the idea to write on” into my brain and go outside for a walk, a game of tennis or whatever.
Often the subject pops up within minutes or hours, sometimes it takes till the next morning or it wakes me up in the middle of the night and I feel compelled to write and finish the post right away.
In the second case it usually takes some research or extra reading. Getting stuck in the middle is, at least for me, usually caused by not knowing enough on the subject.
Vance
Teresa Berry
October 26th, 2009 8:38 am
Darren the responses here are a library of ideas… I’m going with…. boomark and return to this post for my final answer!
Nicely Done!
Teresa
Pat Steer (Gaelen)
October 26th, 2009 9:18 am
Christine asked if other professions get blocked? Heck, yeah. I have artist friends who sometimes get into a place where they can’t pick up a sketch pad or a brush. I know dog trainer/judges who keep a file of exercises and previous courses against the day when they don’t have the mental energy to design another class or another course. I even know a person who makes jewelry who periodically finds herself without new ideas.
For me, just forcing the writing – the ‘write something, even if it’s nonsense or junk’ approach – doesn’t seem to work. It’s a lot of heat producing very little light. BUT, putting the writing into a form (your ‘list’ post is a great example, Darren) can make even low-rent writing take a better shape. Maybe the form makes it easier to refine. Maybe focusing on writing in form takes the pressure off generating the content, because the only thing acceptable on the page is something that fits into the form. I don’t know what makes it click, but that works for me.
The other things that work for me every time:
- keep a bright ideas notebook; review it when I’m stuck
- read other bloggers, and make some comments
- read the news and/or discussion forums relevant to the main subjects of my blogs
- if nothing original comes to mind after all that reading except wanting to share some of what I’ve read, then I quote and link to news stories, other blogs or a twitter comment. Wrap up the brief post with a what-do-you-think question to my own readers just to get something up on the site. Sometimes just seeing a newly published post and/or the comments it generates sparks me in a new direction.
- definitely get away from the computer for awhile. Spending 10 minutes training one of my dogs always gives me a new idea for Dog Trainers Log. Cooking something usually inspires a Kitchen Jam post. Doing something offline is sure material for Life Out Loud.
- try to find some type of relevant post material for your blog that doesn’t involve a lot of creativity, something you can just bang out to get a post online. I put the results of state fair canning competitions into individual blog posts. That’s 50 posts where all I have to do is find the info and links (on the web), format the winners’ lists, and find the state-appropriate illustration. I can bang out one of those posts in a half hour, including the internet search, and it’s a relevant, search-engine friendly post that didn’t require a lot of creativity on my part. When I’m stuck for an idea or for time, it’s a go-to posting solution. And for me, when I see a post go up, that makes writing the next one easier.
MT Harris
October 26th, 2009 11:09 am
I want to thank Darren and everyone who commented here! I’ve entered the world of blogging because of an ebusiness course I’m teaching at this time. So all of the tips and advice shared here is going to come in handy. I’m going to refer the class here as well!
Annette Lyttle
October 26th, 2009 11:12 am
I keep a list of topics I haven’t yet had time to write about. When I run out of inspiration, I return to my list and there’s always something that sparks my imagination again.
I also have some recurring topics (What I’m Reading, So You Want to be an Innkeeper?, etc.) that provide topics naturally and help me get back in the writing groove.
Ray Cassidy
October 26th, 2009 11:39 am
I’m right in the middle of a prolonged writer’s block, but after acouple of beers and a couple of malt whiskeys I think I might just toddle off to bed.
Alan Furth
October 26th, 2009 11:44 am
Twitting for a while cures my bloggers block — it’s easier to get unstuck 140 characters at a time!
Bill Morgan
October 26th, 2009 12:14 pm
I am not a professional blogger so
1. I write about the things I see every day and over 20 years in the business. My blog is a career site
http://www.thejobswami.com
For example, if someone did something stupid in an interview that my be my topic for that day in my blog.
People came up to me and asked me a question in church, that was a good blog topic when someone asked me if I bring business cards to church.
2. I create a bunch of titles ahead of time also with a quick blurb so I always have 5-6 things to add.
3. I have recently met so many bloggers in my niche and we share articles so I’ll never run out of things.
4. In my LinkedIn and Facebook sites, so many people have topics that are of interest.
I truthfully don’t know how someone gets writers block but so many ways to plan ahead for that moment.
Bill Morgan
The Job Swami Career Advice Site
http://www.thejobswami.com
Ronblogger
October 26th, 2009 1:24 pm
As for me, i always read the success story of succesful bloggers.That really boosts my moral when im stuck with ideas and lack of will and deyermination.By the way,you’re one of many that keeps me on blogging ;-)
Srinivas Rao
October 26th, 2009 1:31 pm
One of the things I will do is something I learned from Maxwell Malt’z book psychocybernetics. He says if you give your subconcious mind instructions before you go to sleep it will actually follow those instructions and come up with a solution to a problem you request. In fact when I do this, I wake up in the morning with about 5 ideas for blog posts. And reading this, just gave me my next idea for a post.
Michael McCracken
October 26th, 2009 3:54 pm
Everyone works a little differently, so this advice will apply to some. However, for those… it can be invaluable.
When I think about any kind of writers block, it generally boils down to one of two things: finding an idea, or finding an angle.
How to find an idea: Add constraints. Don’t even consider huge topics, pare them down. Don’t write about vehicle crossovers or a specific model like the Infinity FX45. Instead, write about the sound separation that the Infinity sound-system’s “audio-stage” provides. There is amazing depth in what appears to be a simple concept.
How to find an angle: If your dead-set on a topic (or have one assigned to you), half the work is already done (unless the topic has been covered ad-nauseam, or is – boring.) Or… is it? My opinion is that you should be able to take a new (and interesting) angle on anything. I love to use green-beans as an example. You should be able to write an article on how green beans killed, saved, enslaved, or freed large groups of people. Think it’s impossible? Start researching. It’s less important “if” it actually happened (though it probably has), and more important that you find your angle and tear it up.
Michael McCracken
@expectationgap (twitter)
krissy knox
October 26th, 2009 6:49 pm
My approach to looking at writer’s block is a little different. I’ve come to realize that sometimes when I can’t write, it’s bc I need to examine what’s stopping me. Instead of trying to find a topic to write about, which isn’t hard to do, as there are thousands out there, I look within myself and ask, “WHY am I not able to write?” Answering that question and taking care of the underlying problem is easier than trying to write when I can’t.
The sooner I ascertain what’s wrong, and then quickly go about fixing it, I can get back to writing. Topics then begin to flow, if I even had a shortage in the first place! And my writing flows also.
Writing challenges can come from many different sources. Perhaps one may not want to blog and needs to think about why he is procrastinating. Is there a fear of failure? Success? Maybe one does not blog bc they are burntout and needs to consider why, and deal w the burnout so they can get into writing again much more quickly. Or perhaps one has been cooped up for too long, and needs to go out and see offline friends for a few hours or go for a walk in the park. Or maybe he needs to center himself spiritually. After having done so, he will no longer be dry, and having topics to write about and writing will come naturally.
I guess I’m trying to say that it’s not always the lack of subject matter, or even the writing itself that may prevent one from writing. If you’re not writing, if you’re blocked, then perhaps it’s your body, mind, and spirit’s way of saying you may need to take care of something first…
krissy knox :)
connect with me on twitter:
@iamkrissy
Jessica Nunemaker
October 26th, 2009 11:55 pm
Do anything BUT think about your blog!
Catching up on other people’s blogs, taking a bicycle ride, or putzin’ around in the yard seem to trigger something in me.
Who knew my mess of a yard would become a motivation point and a font of worthwhile ideas? ;)
Bob
October 27th, 2009 1:17 am
My Stormhorn.com blog deals with storm chasing and jazz saxophone–an unusual combination, but it gets traffic from both communities. However, each subject has its limitations. So when I find myself at a loss for ideas, I may just go off topic. It’s a big world out there with plenty of other things to write about, and I don’t think it hurts to take my readers for a stroll off the sidewalk every now and then. Keeps things interesting, and invigorates me as well. Just because I might not have something to say about my two areas of focus doesn’t mean I have nothing to say at all. And I can usually find a way to relate whatever I write about to either jazz or weather or both. When your box is empty, look outside it!
Scott
October 27th, 2009 1:19 am
Real brief as I’m on my iTouch. I find it very motivating to surf and read related blogs and forums. I will usually find unrelated info that sparks imagination.
Keith Mazikowski
October 27th, 2009 3:18 am
Darren:
I am a newb to the whole internet marketing scene and thoroughly enjoy the feed from your site. I read it every week day morning.
I posted a writers block story on Triond. 4 Home remedies that work for me.
http://writinghood.com/writing/four-home-remedies-for-writers-block/
Enjoy!!
Ms. Freeman
October 27th, 2009 6:12 am
On days that I can’t write I surf, stumble, digg and subscribe to feeds, tweet and visit my friends on FB. I read many different blogs and I take in things that are happening around me in the real world.
There are 24 hours in the day and at some point one of those hours will be the magic hour and something will come to mind.
:)
Ms. Freeman
October 27th, 2009 6:41 am
I went back and read your series covering battling bloggers block, very very useful tips. It is also amazing how much your style has changed and your grammar has improved as well..:)
Glenn A
October 27th, 2009 7:24 am
The best way is to just push. Start writing. One sentence after another. Even if they’re not so hot. Eventually you will hit a groove. Then return to the top and rewrite or entirely recast that part. Not a lot of fun, but it almost always works.
The Naked Redhead
October 27th, 2009 8:36 am
Three words: make a schedule.
Josh
October 27th, 2009 3:16 pm
I do a mind map of my topics. Or mind map about the last 5 thing I wrote about and how to expand on them.
Works every time.
cadeau
October 27th, 2009 11:16 pm
Personally I never run out of the things to blog about. The world is such a mystery. There is always something there to inspire and motivate me. :)
PowderRoomTalk
October 28th, 2009 12:16 am
I agree with others on here- what has worked for me is reading other “girl talk” blogs and reading what everyone else is writing about- if I notice a trend I may be inspired to write about it.
Sometimes I simply pick up Cosmo mag and read their articles and those methods usually inspire me to eventually turn on the laptop and start writing.
r4 firmware
October 29th, 2009 12:05 am
Hi Guy’s,
That really boosts my moral when im stuck with ideas and lack of will and deyermination.
Roll-ZLX
October 30th, 2009 1:21 am
Well I’m VERY new to blogging, but being a writer by trade I’ve had my fair share of blocks. And it was kinda intimidating to start the first few posts, but what I found that helped, was to simply be true to the way you speak everyday. I don’t think you should be too official, just write with passion and that will motivate you. Try to get excited about what you’re saying. Because even though I’m new to it, I’d take an artistic guess that blogging is more about raw passion, than wording everything perfectly.
John Haydon
October 31st, 2009 1:06 pm
Darren,
When I’m all dried up for ideas, I go back though my delicious tags (I also use evernote) and read anything that catches my eye.
I also have a slew of voice-recorded blog post ideas on my iPhone.
Finally, I have a folder on my desktop called “Posts In Progress” where I currently have 30 posts in draft form (many of them I’ll never finish because they’re shit ideas).
John
Linda Jandura
November 16th, 2009 9:06 am
Love this! Thanks so much. I’ve had bloggers block for a couple of weeks, or rather, no time to finish a blog that I started.
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