Tips for Overcoming Writer's Block

The recipient of a bachelor's degree in film from The New School, Sawyer Petrick is a New York City, New York-based screenwriter with prior experience in marketing. Sawyer Petrick most recently worked as a consultant at Whole Picture Films and contributed to the development of scripts for The Speech and The Look.

Writer's block is a common struggle that affects all writers, from amateurs to professionals. During a Writers Guild of America Awards panel in 2018, Oscar-winning screenwriter Aaron Sorkin revealed he has writer's block most days. Fortunately, there are several different things writers can do to help address writer's block. The act of writing can even be a solution.

Those struggling on a particular project should try and write about a different subject. This can include a magazine article or blog post, or even something that won't be published. Consider writing about whatever comes to mind, and then throw it out if you want. Repeat until you feel comfortable enough to return to the original material. You can also try writing from a different perspective or starting from a different point in your story.

There are other ways to get through writer’s block as well. For example, you can give your brain a break by going outside and spending time in nature. Go for a long walk or trail run to relieve stress and inspire creativity.