The top factors in B2B content writing success are audience research, more frequent content, and improved content quality.
All that work is time-consuming, yet the average content writer creates good-quality blog posts in under four hours.
And that leaves no time for writer's block.
When I took on full-time content writing and daily deadlines, something unexpected happened: My days brimmed with writing, but so did my nights. As soon as my head hit the pillow, in my dreams I would begin fighting writer's block.
Each morning, I jolted out of bed to type out the sentence I had parsed for hours or the hook that finally came together. It always took a good five minutes of daylight to realize that, yet again, I had spent all night on a bizarre topic that was nowhere on my to-do list.
The purpose of dreams is still up for debate, but I see two explanations: Either my brain was fiendishly tormenting me with the worst moments of every workday, or it was working behind the scenes to build the mental muscles I needed to beat writer's block during my waking hours.
Let's demystify writer's block
Every writer encounters that frustrating state where words refuse to flow and ideas seem out of reach. The first step in overcoming writer's block is seeing it for what it is and what it is not.
Writer's block is not the loss of a muse, so let's dismiss the notion that writing is a divine gift bestowed upon a chosen few. Like any other skill, strong writing is honed through practice, dedication, and continuous learning.
Overcoming writer's block is also a learned skill. Although it may feel overwhelming, writer's block simply boils down to mundane issues that get in the way of creative flow. To break through, you simply have to see writer's block for what it is and employ tactics that restore your creative flow.
Establish a writing routine
It may seem counterintuitive, but creativity thrives on routine. When you engage in regular habits, you free your brain to think more creatively. A daily routine reduces decisions about when and where to write, allowing you to channel energy into the writing itself.
Creating a writing routine is about finding your rhythm. When setting a time to write, pay attention to what time of day you feel most alert and creative. Some writers are night owls, but I sit down long before the sun is up and don't call it quits until I meet my deadlines for that day.
Next, choose a dedicated space to write. Some writers feel creative energy flowing in the corner booth of a café, but I need a quiet place devoid of distractions. You'll find me either at my uncluttered desk with only a lamp, phone, and laptop, or on the deck where acres of birds and frogs are all I hear.
In addition to time and place, one little habit can play a significant role in mentally preparing you to write. Just the daily ritual of making a cup of coffee seems to kick my brain into writing mode.
Break up writing with clear goals
When facing a large project, the distance between the starting point and the final goal can seem overwhelming. By setting smaller goals, I create a series of stepping stones, making the journey less daunting.
For example, I never start the day with a goal to finish two articles, but instead start with a goal to research my first article. When I find what I need, I set a goal to draft an outline.
