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.
Breaking the work into specific tasks provides direction and momentum.
Change the scenery
Changing the scenery might seem counterintuitive when deadlines loom, but that shift is often what I need to clear the path for inspiration because it prompts new thoughts and generates new perspectives.
Even just stepping into nature for a few minutes has a restorative effect. A quick walk outside or a few minutes on the porch swing refreshes my mind and opens the door to new ideas.
Sometimes, however, all I need is a few minutes of movement. Exercise releases endorphins to boost mood, reduce stress hormones, and spur creativity.
Taking a moment to step back is not about procrastination; it's about allowing your mind space to breathe and realign so your subconscious can process ideas and solve problems in the background.
More often than not, when I shift my focus away from the block for a five-minute walk, that elusive idea pops into my mind effortlessly, and what once seemed like an insurmountable barrier is now a clear path forward.
Embrace imperfection
Writer's block is often the weight of perfection looming large over every word and sentence.
Perfectionism, at its core, is fear—fear of criticism, fear of not meeting expectations, and fear of failure. Such anxiety stifles creativity, making it almost impossible to write freely.
Embracing imperfection does not mean lowering your standards; rather, it means acknowledging that the creative process is, by its nature, imperfect. That mindset is incredibly freeing, turning writing from a test to a playground, a place of exploration and discovery.
Give yourself permission to write badly. Your first draft of anything you write is supposed to be just that—rough. It's a place to get your ideas down without worrying about how they come out. It's easier to start and continue writing without the pressure of creating something perfect.
Constant editing slows my progress and amplifies my critical inner voice, which is why I draft an article on one day and edit it on another. Separating those two stages maintains my momentum and keeps my perfectionist tendencies at bay.
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The path to overcoming writer's block is unique for each writer who treads it. You don't need the return of a mythic muse. Like any professional struggling with a setback, you just need practical solutions tailored to your situation.
Approach writer's block with a problem-solving mindset, demystify what is a common challenge, and craft a steady flow of compelling narratives.
More Resources on Writer's Block
How to Get Unstuck When Writer's Block Strikes
'It's OK to Be Terrible' and Other Affirmations for the Frustrated Writer
