Writer’s block definition from Dictionary.com: a usually temporary condition in which a writer finds it impossible to proceed with the writing of a novel, play, or other work. What causes this temporary condition? And how do you overcome it more quickly so you can get on with the business of writing?

I believe there are three root causes to writer’s block: Fear, perfectionism, and exhaustion. And I offer the following remedies to help you overcome each one more quickly.

Writer’s Block Cause #1: Fear

To overcome your fear, you must first acknowledge it: Don’t Call Procrastination Laziness. Call it Fear. What is the root cause behind your procrastination? It’s usually a fear of rejection or criticism in some form, as discussed in the above-linked blog post. Put your fears down on paper. Articulate them to yourself in writing. Read them out loud to yourself. When you do this, you’ll begin to see just how irrational many of your fears really are. That should help you get back to work.

Writer’s Block Cause #2: Perfectionism

Are you someone who finds yourself obsessing over every last little detail, editing the same line over and over again rather than writing a new one? This is another form of procrastination that can slow your writing progress down.

“If I waited for perfection, I would never write a word.”
~Margaret Atwood

The best way to overcome perfectionism is to stop overanalyzing everything. Stop nit-picking and editing yourself along the way. Not long ago, I wrote a blog post titled 7 Tips to Help You Write a Book FAST! These same tips can not only help you write more quickly; they can also help you overcome writer’s block in the first place.

Writer’s Block Cause #3: Exhaustion

Are you taking good physical care of yourself, eating healthy, and exercising regularly? Are you getting enough sleep? If not, you may find yourself both physically and mentally exhausted. You’ll most likely experience writer’s block ahead of other writers who are minding their mental and physical health in all these ways. Want some great tips on how to prevent exhaustion? Here they are: How to Stop Feeling Tired All the Time.

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