Has this ever happened to you? You sit down to write your latest and greatest blog post ever and then…your mind goes blank. It has happened to me more times than I can count. However, I still (typically) blog 5 days a week and I have to say, I never push publish if I feel like I’m just writing junk to post something. Not saying that each and every blog post is profound, but they do all have a purpose and thought goes into each and every one of my posts. So what do I do to deal with inevitable writer’s block? Here are my tips:
- Write down everything. I’ve talked before about the benefits of using an editorial calendar – one of those benefits is that you can start a blog post with as much or as little information as you have. For me, the hardest part of the process is the initial idea. So I’ll utilize my editorial calendar and start a post titled “training” or “kale artichoke dip” or whatever it is I’m thinking of. It really helps to have those idea written down somewhere.
- Read often. Reading the news, books and other blogs can help get your creative juices flowing. Being knowledgeable about what’s happening in the world can definitely spark a post. Many times, I’ve written a Friday Five based on something I’ve read somewhere.
- Reflect. What do you know that could help your readers? When I was going through the process of learning how to self host my blog (read all about that here and here), I made sure I simultaneously took note on each step because I knew that many of my readers would be interested in the process and I thought it could be helpful.
- Share your life. As much as you are comfortable, share with your readers what is going on with you. I was excited to blog about my engagement and I like sharing details about my wedding planning with you all. I realize that this won’t work for everyone because not everyone is comfortable sharing details about their personal lives, but it really works for me.
- Lists are your friend! This ties in to number 3, but as you think about what you could help your readers with, make a list! I’m Type A so lists are my best friend, but even if you don’t love them, chances are your readers will find them helpful.
How do you handle writer’s block?
Great tips! When I mention to other bloggers that we try to post 5 days a week, I am usually met with the response “O, well I just try to focus on quality content”. Trying to imply that if we are posting 5 days a week that our content couldn’t possibly be all quality posts. I admit that we do think about what we write and try to make informative posts but alas not everyone will show interest in every post! Thanks again for the tips!
Meranda@fairytalesandfitness recently posted…A Quick Get Away to San Juan, Puerto Rico!
Yes, there definitely seems to be a myth that you can’t focus on quality content with 5 posts a week, but that’s not true! If you plan and are organized you can definitely do it!
Love the tips, and the handy link to your self-hosting posts, since I was just going to look those up again. I was reading and prepping to self-host last night.
I use Google Calendar right now to map out future posts or throw an idea on a specific day. I work best when I have goals and deadlines. But I use Evernote to track ideas – I have a note that is blog ideas and lists. I can access that from my phone or home computer (it’s blocked on my work computer), and will sometimes start writing in Evernote on my phone if I need to get something down on paper. The only problem with that is I type on a keyboard much faster than on a phone!
Cynthia @ You Signed Up For What?! recently posted…Race Report: Pretty Muddy Mud Run
So glad it’s helpful and that you are ready to self host! I love Evernote! And yes, the keyboard versus phone typing issue is one I encounter OFTEN!
I live by my lists- I write everything down as well
Erinn S recently posted…Wellness Wednesday: How Dynamic Tape is healing my shin splints
I have been using writing prompts to help me get the creative juices flowing.
That’s a great idea!!
Courtney recently posted…5 Tips to Combat Blogging Writer’s Block
Nice list! I’m trying to get new readers and commenters all the time, so hopefully these will help get more people engaged on my blog!
Kristen recently posted…Wednesday Wisdom: Time to Switch it Up
Great ideas! I’m an Evernote junkie as well. I have a running list for blog post topics as well as blogging tasks that need to be done, design ideas, product creation, and LOTS more! Another thing I try to do is write when I’m inspired. Often an idea seems to come out of the blue. If I sit down and write at these times, the words flow freely and they usually end up being some of my best writing.
Kimberly recently posted…Crockpot Mexican Chicken {Salad}
Yes, for sure to writing when inspired!!
Another option for me has been to take a break. Sometimes just not thinking about the blog for a bit gets your mind refocused. Then you come up with crazy ideas like Blogmas 😉
Mar @ Mar on the Run! recently posted…Marathon Training Recap: Week 2
Great tips!
Jill @ Fitness, Health and Happiness recently posted…10 Lightened Up Holiday Desserts