Writers Block. Stuck In A Rut. 21 Ways To Overcome…

You can’t think yourself out of a writing block; you have to write yourself out of a thinking block. ~John Rogers

Writers block is a common phenomenon among writers. It’s the condition of being unable to think of what to write or how to proceed with writing. The question was asked and the list was compiled from advice gleaned from a Book Writers’ forum. The ideas are simple and delightfully thought-provoking. Here I share 21 of the more exhilarating.

1. Embrace it as gestation
2. Listen to music
3. Take a break or work on something else
4. Go back to what inspired you first
5. Change your scenery.
6. Go for a walk
7. Write something personal
8. Read. Get motivated. Then go back
9. Put the pen and paper down.
10. Leave it alone and the ideas will come home
11. Ask questions of your stories
12. Try writing something different
13. Take a shower. Let the water flow and the ideas will come
14. Free write. Write about your day. Just write
15. Ask another writer what they are working on. The change of focus will inspire you
16. People who succeed as writers write
17. Take a writing course
18. Be in a group
19. Write about writer’s block. Something will inspire
20. Watch a movie
21. Get physical. Go to the gym. Break a sweat

Did any of the above resonate? Can you add any? Do share! We would love to hear!

Cheers!

Author: Dr. Shelly

Dr. Shelly Cameron is a leadership strategist, executive coach, and author of 12 nonfiction books, including The GreenLight Factor and Success Strategies of Caribbean American Leaders. She is the creator of the GreenLight Leadership Framework and founder of Global Coaching Corner. She leads the Ignite Caribbean 30 Under 30 Emerging Leaders program. Drawing on over 20 years of global HR leadership experience, she's passionate about helping professionals navigate change and design fulfilling lives through intentional goal setting and self-discovery. Her research was published in the JAABC Business Journal, and she was a featured author for the 2026 Africana Arts & Humanities Festival's 250th celebration. 🎉 A thank-you: SuccessfulLeaders.net just crossed 100,000 views! Grateful for every reader who's made this milestone possible. View all posts by Dr. Shelly