Overcoming Writers Block
Having recently started a university course, I’m faced with the daunting task of writing assignments and dissertations for the first time in years. I often suffer with writers block and the battle with procrastination and perfection that fuels it.
Writer's block is a frustrating, yet familiar experience for anyone who writes. Whether you're an author, blogger, student, or professional, that dreadful feeling of being creatively stuck can strike at any time. Staring at a blank page, struggling to find the right words, or being overwhelmed by perfectionism can paralyze progress. But what if there was a way to move beyond it, and not just push through but truly reignite your passion for writing? Coaching could be the answer.
Coaching, often associated with sports or leadership, is increasingly recognised as a powerful tool for personal development in creative fields, including writing. Here’s how it can help you overcome writer’s block and rediscover your creative flow.
1. Personalised Support and Guidance
One of the key benefits of working with a coach is the personalised, one-on-one support you receive. Every writer is different, and so is every form of writer’s block. A coach can help you identify the root cause of your creative block, whether it's fear of failure, lack of motivation, or simply feeling overwhelmed. Once the cause is identified, the coach can tailor their approach to your specific needs, helping you break the cycle of frustration and stagnation.
Through thought-provoking questions and active listening, a coach helps you clarify your goals, overcome mental roadblocks, and set realistic writing targets. This customised guidance can be more effective than general writing advice or trying to push through the block on your own.
2. Accountability and Structure
Accountability is a powerful motivator when it comes to reaching any goal. Often, writer’s block persists because of procrastination or lack of structure. You may have every intention of writing but find yourself avoiding it. A coach can hold you accountable, helping you stick to a writing routine or timeline.
With their support, you'll be encouraged to set clear, achievable milestones. This added structure can create a sense of momentum, making it easier to break through the initial resistance that often accompanies writer’s block. Knowing that you’ll have to check in with someone about your progress can make you more committed to taking action.
3. Overcoming Perfectionism and Self-Doubt
Perfectionism is a common cause of writer’s block. The fear of not writing something “good enough” can stop you before you even begin. A coach can help you challenge this mindset by encouraging you to embrace imperfection as part of the creative process. Through various techniques, such as reframing negative self-talk or focusing on small wins, a coach helps you develop a more positive and realistic relationship with your writing.
Coaching also helps build confidence. Often, writers struggle with self-doubt, questioning whether their work is valuable or meaningful. A coach can offer encouragement, highlight your strengths, and help you recognise your unique voice, empowering you to write authentically without fear of judgment.
4. New Perspectives and Creative Techniques
A coach brings fresh perspectives to your writing process. They may introduce you to new brainstorming techniques, exercises, or strategies that can shake up your routine and spark creativity. For example, they might suggest freewriting, mind mapping, or writing prompts to get your ideas flowing again.
Having an external perspective can also help you see your work from a different angle. Coaches often ask thought-provoking questions that challenge your assumptions and inspire you to think differently about your project. This shift in perspective can open up new creative possibilities, helping you approach your writing with renewed enthusiasm.
Conclusion
While writer’s block can feel isolating and insurmountable, coaching provides a valuable lifeline. Through personalised support, accountability, and new creative tools, a coach helps you break free from the mental barriers that keep you stuck. By working through your challenges in a structured, supportive environment, you can rediscover the joy of writing and find your creative flow once more. Whether you're struggling with confidence, motivation, or perfectionism, coaching can help you turn obstacles into opportunities, moving you forward on your writing journey.
If you would like to discuss how coaching can help you, get in touch to see how I can help.
