How to Overcome Writer’s Block

You’re sitting silently in front of your writing nook, the backlight of your computer bathing the dark room in a heavenly glow. Hovering above the keys, your fingers are eager to begin typing out your thoughts, but an irritating sensation clouds your mind. A slight pain zips between your ears as if your train of thought has halted on the tracks before a wayward cow. You feel distracted. Drowsy, bored, frustrated even. These are classic signs of the onset of WB: Writer’s Block.

Don’t worry. You are not alone. All writer’s experience it. Whether you’re overwhelmed with a blockage for weeks or just troubled for a few hours, there are some surefire ways to overcome this creative obstruction.

Fight Fire with Fire: Feeling unfocused can be beaten by distracting yourself even further. Run errands to take a break from writing or reorganize your priorities on another project. Spending time away from your challenging task will allow your thoughts to flow easier.

Natural Inspiration:  As I noted in a previous post, you can take a walk in nature to clear your mind and find motivation from your backwoods neighbors. A staycation or vacation can also be included in this category as relaxation is paramount to generating new ideas.

Magnify the Problem: Instead of removing yourself from the situation, taking the block head-on can be just as effective. Ask yourself, Why am I stuck? What is the primary problem? Following this assessment, make an outline covering all facets of your current struggle. Now you can move forward with a clarified perspective.

Subconscious Solutions: Your inability to conquer the block is all in your head. Trust me. Counteracting this internal struggle can also be found within. Free-write without any direction for ten or fifteen minutes and see what comes out. Somewhere inside your answer will arise.

Writer’s block comes down to two solutions: removing yourself from the block or writing through the block. For writers just now facing this age old complication, try all of the options to see which helps you best. Seasoned writers will know whether they need external or internal inspiration. The bottom line is that writer’s block does not last forever. It is curable. It takes a healthy dose of determination and a renewed prescription for inspiration.

Writing Tips: Weather

When it comes to creating a believable setting for your narrative, weather actually plays a significant role in determining the location and its atmosphere. It’s fairly straightforward that a rainy day on a tropical island would be described categorically opposite to a sunny day in the tundra. Just as the lighting inside a room or its contents gives the reader a deep sense of their location in the story, external conditions function similarly but with an additional touch of symbolism.

Most writers would agree that weather is an integral piece of setting the scene. So much so, that in films or television, you may even become blind to the setup due to the expectation of weather. Quick-- what are the conditions in the climactic scene of Titanic? The opening sequence in LOST? Takes a minute or two to remember, doesn’t it? But once you recall the weather, I’ll bet you envisioned the rest of the scene down to minor details. Now I’ll direct your thoughts to how these decisions operate on a subconscious level.

Sun: Along with providing brightness to the landscape, this otherwise bland forecast can offer your reader with optimistic feelings and visceral connections to their own fair-weather memories.

Partial Sun / Cloudy: Not every day is perfect, even in an ideal location like the tropical island. Some locations may be overcast 9 out of 10 days (i.e. London, Seattle). Clouds can signify a looming conflict or confusion in addition to implying a transitional period.

Rain: It’s slightly cliché to set a depressing or end-game scene in the rain, but it does give emotional credibility to the situation. I am more partial to setting cheerful scenes in the rain for a juxtaposition of moods.

Stormy: This is quite an adaptable category. Storms could range from natural disasters to an every-day blustery gust or snow. Generally, Mother Nature’s storms are seen as a form of anger or fury, but it could also mirror an internal conflict.

Final Note: Time of day and the yearly shift in seasons offers another complex layer onto the weather your characters and readers’ experience. Be careful to note these climate deviations when painting your location to gain an extra dose of compelling realism.   

Natural Inspiration

“How do I solve this problem?” Road blocks arise in every aspect of life, but they are aggravatingly present in your most value projects. What you need is inspiration. However, inspiration can be difficult to find. More often than not nature allows me to access my muse in a manner that encourages productivity above all else. Whether it’s taking a walk to clear my head before work, or using the weather as a sketch tool for writing (future post alert!), the benefits of immersing yourself in the natural world can be directly seen in the rejuvenation of your personal or professional ventures.

As Henry David Thoreau says, “Nature is full of genius.” Whatever your challenges might be, nature is a free and diverse outlet for collecting motivation and thanks to seasons its wisdom is ever-changing. One of the greatest advantages of nature is that it offers separation from technology. Removing extraneous stimuli offers a clear mind to assess your tasks head-on. Allowing yourself to get lost in your surroundings can be inspiring in itself, so take a walk! You’ll be surprised by the increase in ideas you will experience by connecting with nature.

If you need more direction than just the suggestion of using nature as a source of inspiration, first exit your dwelling (be it your urban cubicle or suburban office) and locate a secluded area. This could be a park in the city or a scenic hike in the nearby wilderness—you could even do something as simple as walking around the block. Along your stroll be sure to have your cell phone on silent and focus solely on the dilemma you’re facing. Breathing deeply to maintain a calm state of mind will help with this exercise. Personally, I find pacing to be a good source of time-keeping, but whatever rhythm you’re comfortable with will work wonders to keep you on track. Lastly, let your thoughts flow to entertain your muse’s suggestions and even if something seems unorthodox to start, it may become a solid step towards finding your solution. Cleanse your thoughts and repeat. This practice is simple, but in difficult situations, simplicity is the key to success.  

Adopt a Pet, Make a Friend Fur Life

Looking for a furry friend? One of the best allies humans have in the nature world are our animal friends. As I have detailed before, taking care of our planet will ensure future generations are able to live with these majestic animals just as we have. Exotic or wild animals are one story, but I am focused on the domestic animals we have lived beside for years. Plenty of us house these creatures as pets and this is where I come to my point.

First and foremost, this is my opinion and while I do believe it is the most humane and logical route to take when searching for a pet, I have no doubt others will disagree. The concept of a breeder has always baffled me. While Chihuahua’s are cute, natural selection would not have ever evolved the canine into this breed, nor would their feline counterparts ever develop such a varied coat pattern. These traits were entirely created through domestication and breeding programs.  At this point there is no turning back on what is already created, but that doesn’t mean we have to literally turn our back on living pets.

Many people seek out breeders so they can obtain a pedigreed specific dog, cat, what-have-you when perfectly loveable house companions are forgotten at local shelters every day. With a bit of research you may find the precise breed you were looking for, but don’t exclude the thought of saving a beautiful half-breed either. Will you love the animal any less? You may even love them more! You can discover a variety of animals beyond the common cat from rodents to reptiles. These adorable companions are eagerly awaiting a home like yours, so don’t hesitate to visit your area’s shelters for the newest love in your life.  

My personal favorite site for seeking out a pet is Petfinder.com. There is also Adoptapet.com.

Love That Dirty Water

In the lull of a summer afternoon, it can be troublesome to settle on a decent activity that will capitalize on the beautiful weather while simultaneously subduing the heat. If you live near a body of water, then you’re in luck. This past weekend we were visited by family friends and among the joyous reminiscing of how we became acquainted and our cherished Cape vacations, we settled on trying something new. Kayaking. Personally, I had experienced the river’s wonders several times, but there was something almost magical about traversing the placid surf with friends and family.

Based on my past adventures with positive results, I suggested the Paddle Boston company with its variety of launch points. I had never been on the stretch of the Charles we explored that day, which made the trip even more whimsical. New plants and animals revealed themselves around each bend of the river.  Sharing my love for nature with others was a perk compared to the relaxing atmosphere the river encouraged for us to rejuvenate our friendship.

If I managed to swiftly and quietly approach wildlife with an unthreatening behavior, I came within feet of aquatic animals as well as timid birds. Coursing with the current on the return journey, I allowed my hands to linger in the river, splashing the water with appreciation and wonder. If you live in Massachusetts, I advise you to investigate the possibilities the Paddle Boston company has to offer. However, if you live elsewhere in the North East or another region of the country, I am confident similar options are available near you. Even the smallest moment like running your hands through the water can remind you about the world’s grand opportunities and the creatures that inhabit its diverse landscape.

The Fantastic Planet Earth

I write fiction. That’s my bread and butter. Ever since I was young I told stories. Such wild exaggerations of the truth that it became obvious to my parents I had a knack for storytelling. My dad even encouraged me to become a writer or else I would get in trouble for all my fibs.  And after I discovered the attraction of fantasy stories, I was hooked. I think it goes without saying speculative, science-fiction and fantasy writers are drawn to the ability to create new and incredible worlds. At least that’s why I write. Beyond the roster of new people one can birth, the pure escapism of constructing the details of a civilization and its surrounding environment is addictive. For the longest time I felt the universe’s greatest sights were locked inside the brains of writers. Then I saw Planet Earth.

Land and water have been filmed countless times before. But Planet Earth separates their series into segments that honor each habitat with the detail-oriented attention they deserve. In each venue, predator and prey shine harmoniously, neither ever stealing the spotlight as the array of animals transitions gracefully with the changing arenas.  The mysticism of a solitary snow leopard or the raw power of the migrating wildebeest, the focal creatures in each installment show the delicate balance every corner of our world supports.

From the great plains through forests and into the mountains, these locations can be found nearly everywhere and yet, despite their obvious differences, they encapsulate the likeness of unlike locations. There exists a circle of life (as my favorite, nature-oriented childhood film would say) that is demonstrated in this program as an essential cog in the cohesive functioning of our planet. This becomes clear in the desserts episode which proves that even in an arid, unrelenting environment, life can thrive. Planet Earth reminds viewers, there is always more we can learn and the wonders in shallow seas and worlds of ice reinforce the need to question ones surroundings and explore. A meager three percent of the water on Earth is freshwater, and its titular show brilliant depicts the amazing home this precious recourse provides to an ever-growing populace.

Many of Planet Earth’s locations can be visited, and some play the role as home for our human brethren, but there are a few locations that remain out of reach. Delving into caves and deep water, these exclusive shots invite viewers to witness the least explored depths of our planet and the intricate formations that house spectacular creatures. The sheer awesome expanse of these subterranean habitats stirs a primal need for answers, and Planet Earth delivers. Ultimately, the most intriguing installment of Planet Earth is the jungle. Few people have ever seen the elusive animals captured on film for this episode, never mind taking the time to study its unparalleled foliage. The dancing bird of paradise becomes an instant salesman for the series, seducing viewers and mates alike.

Planet Earth enlists sweeping aerial views and time-lapse photography used to show the grand scale of diversity and transformation our world performs day-to-day in breathtaking fashion. These majestic views pair beautifully with the entrancing tone of Sigourney Weaver’s voice who narrates the series with elegance. Discovery and the BBC orchestrated a fantastical perspective on planet Earth never before attempted by wildlife filmmakers. Their five year journey produces proof that sometimes storybooks are not the only place where fantasy lives.

Top Five Massachusetts Audubon Sights

If you share my kindred love for nature, this list is for you. The National Audubon Society has preserves, sanctuaries and centers in nearly every state and even some US territories. Their mission to conserve America’s natural wildlife is breathtaking, not only in their extensive effort but the sights their parks offer. The Massachusetts Audubon is one-step removed from its national brethren, providing a local stomping-ground for the state’s residents with specialized rewards for its members. I was practically raised on these timeless sanctuaries, spotting animals through the brush and calling out bird names after their sweet songs. As a product of an Audubon wedding and a current employee, it seemed fitting to post my top five Mass Audubon locations.

Welfleet Bay, Welfleet – This prime Cape Cod sanctuary takes the top spot for its winding trails that snake visitors through a seaside forest before breaking into a magnificent seascape of the bay. The low tide estuaries harbor extensive sea life begging for a closer look, and the hide tide observation platform offers a glimpse into a hidden world.

Stony Brook, Norfolk – There is slight favoritism being played here since this is my second home during the spring and summer months. Located south-east of Boston, Stony Brook provides a central pond with accompanying marshes that are easily navigable. Crossing through three habitats on your walk, spotting a variety of animals on the short walk is commonplace.  

Joppa Flats, Newburyport – Unusual terrain is not often as accessible as this Newburyport landmark. Nestled along the ocean’s edge, this north shore sanctuary draws you along placid salt-marshes and through living mudflats to the best location in Massachusetts for birding elusive birds and waterfowl.

Drumlin Farm, Lincoln – The name itself is indicative of its unmatched excellence for entertaining children. Its namesake farm houses grazing animals and the ageless hayride. Moreover, the compact loop of zoo-style exhibits allow for an interactive trail: the aviary is a personal favorite as is the underground room, giving a covert insight to burrowing animals. This sanctuary is a must-visit for young nature-lovers.

Broadmoor, Natick – Vast fields and a beautiful inland marsh provide the tranquil backdrop for a secluded walk. Patrons can traverse the paths while leaving their daily worries behind. Broadmoor is a wonderful viewing station for the transition of the seasons. Each cyclic visit opens new passageways to inspiration and reflection. After all, the bend in the boardwalk was the site of my parent’s wedding.

This list is only one review of the dozens of options available. Explore and make your own list! Outdoorsman, or not, the Mass Audubon houses such a vibrant collection of sights that people from all walks of life can find the right walk for them.

Night Hike

As the sunset, I excitedly ventured to the Norfolk audubon society of Massachusetts to work a night-time program for eagerly awaiting boy scouts and girls scouts. I had previously worked to inform young minds about the wonders of the night on several occassions, but they could not compare to the experience I had last night. As I arrived, I discovered the activities my boss required were different than before, and far more hands-on than usual. Assumingly, this would create for a fun atmosphere and a better program for the children. However, as soon as I recieved my group of young cub scouts, I knew the night would be long, tiresome and emotionally exhausting. Some acitvities were way over their heads and others didn't capture their interest whatsoever.

We set off on our hike. In the distance, the glow of the sun barely stretched across the horizon as I introduced myself and met the young boys who would be with me for the next couple of hours. It was a small, tight-knit pack with several parents tagging along. And each of the boys had a specific quality that added to the uniqueness of this journey. One insisted he knew all of the animals we might see and listed various species that didn't even inhabit our area. Another had something to say about every comment I made. There was one boy who eventually thought he was my best friend, reminding me at every turn. Even the parents added a stressful element by falsely correcting my facts or interjecting their opinions or personal stories. It didn't aleviate the situation that all light had faded from the area and we were deep in the woods, barely able to see the hand in front of our faces.

At one point, I was convinced someone would fall into the pond we had walked by just after some scouts fell victim to the many roots on the trail. My directions about how to safely navigate terrain at night were completely ignored, evident by the subsequent incident: a parent walked directly into a tree. Thankfully, there were no injuries but we were only half-way through the program. I calmly inhaled and led us onward. The boys grew anxious and decided to run on the trail in order to scare another group we spotted around the bend. The last thing I needed was for the objects we saw to turn out to be coyotes or some other startled creature. But it did provide me with some entertainment to find the "group" we saw was actually just a cluster of trees. Passing by the waterfall and back up to the nature center, I was not only tired from the hike but tired of the complaints and corrections I recieved from the troop. A bright light burning our night-eyes was the welcome back to safety. The kids were exhausted and collapsed onto the floor as soon as they were inside. Although it was a fun time, and could easily have been worse, I was happy for the program to come to an end.

From Home and Back

For the earliest part of my life, my family and I frequently traveled between Massachusetts and Florida to visit one set of grandparents in each state. We lived miles from any other family members in Mass and I had a better relationship with my Floridian grandparents on the phone than I did in person. Eventually, my grandfather in Florida became terminally ill and as a result, we uprooted ourselves from Massachusetts to relocate to Florida. Although I was very young, I can still recall feeling strongly attached to the bay state and nearly heartbroken about the move. I considered the entire clawed-state my home: from the berkshires to Boston. The radically changing weather was my favorite game of hide and seek, the autumn leaves painted the surroundings with such vibrant colors no fingerpainting could compare to and the Boston Red Sox were undoubtedly superior to any fishy sports team Florida might have.

The move itself was trying, and even once we had settled into the quaint house in the newest neighborhood development, I missed Massachusetts with every fiber of my little heart. Year-round greenery, however beautiful, did not tempt me with its accompanying fair weather; no, I longed for snow days during school and an every-changing, undulating landscape. People were pleasant, but they had passions completely divergant from my own. Every weekend was beach day when I wanted seasons. Fast food was abudant on the commercialized stretch of land just beyond our property, but I preferred my northern grandmother's home cooking. And as the months passed by, I could only dream of my Massachusetts home among the hills, or trips down to the breezy cape in place of the identical houses and constant sun that left my appetite for New England unsatisfied.

Although my return to the land of big hills came on the somber passing of my grandfather, the smell of crisp northern air was exactly what I needed. We moved away from our western-mass home and settled far closer to the patchwork of towns where the remainder of my family resided, just south west of Boston. Witnessing a sudden summer shower or an abrupt blizzard awakened the pitter-patter in my chest and in a wave of seafood dinners and Patriot games; I knew I was back where I belonged. Nestled within a hilly community where yellow buses picked me up at my door for the start of school and returned me during the blossoming of late-spring flowers, announcing the soon-to-be arrival of summer. From then on, I knew there wasn't a single thing about my Massachusetts home I could ever live without.