Writer's block

Room with a view

This is my current view from my desk. Pretty spectacular isn't it?1 Back home in the UK, I spent three whole weeks of continuously bashing my head against the writer's block wall, boiling the kettle at least ten times a day and falling into a deep, dark spiral of a serious case of self doubt- all of which resulted in just one word in the word count- yes that's right, just one word in three weeks. So, I contacted all the people I know who live in inspiring places, to see if they needed or knew anyone who needed a house sitter. And, here i sit in the glorious Alps, a tiny French village sitting high on a mountain near the ski resort of Morzine. 

In exchange for the inspiring free accommodation I look after the dog, two cats, four chickens and water the plants. Quite a sweet deal. And, words poured out of my finger tips onto my keyboard when i first arrived. My fingers flicked every brick down from the writers block wall. I boasted to friends about my stunning temporary home and I soon became best friends with my new house mates- the animals. 

However, it wasn't long until Writer's Block set in once again. I sat and stared at my laptop for four hours without having written a single word. The Kevin Spacey saga became far too fascinating, when really I don't care at all. I've consumed 6 cups of coffee by 1pm and I've spent an unnecessary amount of time on social media. All of which sends me diving back deep down that hole of self loathing. 'Why the hell am i doing this?' 'I'm not a writer.'

Alas, I know every single person who's ever written anything or refers to themselves as being a writer experiences this god forsaken typing disease. And by overcoming it, i'm writing this post. Just to get my fingers tapping again. I've also discovered the following ways which will supposedly help vanquish the enemy....

  • Go for a walk.
  • Eliminate distractions 
  • Do something to get your blood flowing. 
  • Change your environment.
  • Read a book.
  • Freewrite.
  • Listen to music 
  • Brew some coffee- crikey, i need no encouragement for this. 
  • Create a routine. Many famous writers have daily routines to summon the Muse.
  • Spend time with someone who makes you feel good.
  • Call an old friend.
  • Brainstorm ideas in bullet points.
  • Read some inspiring quotes to get you started.

Wish me luck. 

Over and out!!!!

lindsey cole