Feeling the pressure to produce the volume of new and engaging content you’ve set your sights on? Content is definitely king but it’s checkmate when writer’s block sets in.
You know your customers, what they value and why. You have a solution to their pain points and you see opportunities for growth. You might be a thought leader (or could be if time allowed)!
But you’re stuck. Staring at your screen or page unable to find the words. And the more you think, the harder it gets.
Try these tips for tackling writer’s block
Firstly, ensure you have a content schedule - a framework of platform themes and timings. Regular insightful content is proven to keep your customers interested and connected, and a connected audience is 76% more likely to buy from you than from a competitor according to Sprout Social. However, you still need to write the content!
Change the format – could you present your content in a different way; a video, an infographic or a live stream instead? That way you may also appeal to more learning styles too.
Hide your gadgets and free write for 10 minutes.
Try the Pomodoro Technique, using a timer to break up your time whereby you focus for 25 minutes, take a short break, focus for 25, take a break and so on. This aims to eliminate distractions, optimise focus and keep you refreshed, whether it’s with a brisk walk, rest, or rewarding coffee! Even a 30 second mini-break can increase productivity by 13% (Lifehack).
Don’t strive for perfection straightaway, just get it down and improve it later, recommends Sam Hay, journalist and leading children’s author. “Getting started can sometimes be the hardest part”. “Beginnings and endings are the hardest bits of any text. So don’t worry about them. Jump into the middle and then go back”. If you have an outline plan, you can piece it together.
Tell it to someone - “Just putting it into words can help structure it in your mind and be inspired when sharing ideas with others”, Sam advises.
Distraction! Don’t sit staring at an empty bit of paper. Colin Chambers, an experienced writer recommends distracting yourself with something different for 10 minutes or so: proof reading, exercise or chores. Sam agrees, “Some of my best ideas have popped into my head while feeding the cat or cooking dinner”.
Set a deadline. An achievable goal. Even if you don’t have one, create one or ask someone to set it for you. It can definitely focus the mind.
Or you could give it to someone else to do! Call in some back up.
So what are you waiting for? You’ve got this - get cracking!
However if it’s more about a lack of time or resource than writer’s block and you really do need some outside help, please get in touch with us. Our services include copywriting, from webpages or blogs optimised for SEO, or newsletters, social media posts and more.
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