Writer’s block happens even to the best of us, and it can be nearly impossible to shake. I feel like I always get my best ideas when I am not somewhere that I can write, like while driving. But when a deadline approaches, my mind goes blank.

Because of this, I’ve had to find ways to snap myself out of it. We all know that going outside and listening to music are great ways to boost your creativity, but here are a few other ways that work for me.

Play With Your Pet

Sometimes writer’s block can be caused by stress. Playing with a dog or cat can elevate levels of serotonin and dopamine, which help you to relax.

Do Some Chores

I often find myself wasting hours staring at my computer screen, hoping that something comes to me. Switching to simple tasks that need to get done like doing the dishes or putting laundry away tends to get my brain switched into creative mode very quickly. Maybe it’s the feeling of a job well done that you get from completing chores, or maybe it’s the feeling of being organized; but either way, it works.

Light A Candle

According to Psychology Today, humans are capable of distinguishing thousands of different scents. “Smell is often the first warning of safety or danger, friend or foe. Smells have the power to drive your behavior on an instinctive and subconscious level.” Unfortunately, most of us don’t use this awesome power to its full advantage. When you’re having trouble writing or concentrating, light a candle with a scent that reminds you of something – maybe it’s a good memory with family, or maybe it’s of a time where you were in a really creative mindset.

Solve A Puzzle

Sometimes my writer’s block is stemmed from not being able to get my brain to focus on a singular task. We live busy lives, and are constantly on the move. Diving into a puzzle can help focus the mind.

Talk to Someone

Share ideas with a friend, or ask them what they would want to read about. Sometimes just talking through your ideas and process can spark a new direction that you hadn’t previously thought of.

Plan A Vacation

Nothing gets my brain into a creative mood more than the possibility of traveling. Even if you’re not serious about planning a vacation at the moment, try browsing sites like TripAdvisor to get an idea of where you might like to go someday. Explore what people are saying – where’s the best place to visit, eat, stay, activities – you’d be surprised how many potential blog ideas can come from simply getting your brain into an exploratory state.

Pamper Yourself

If stress is what’s holding you back, then finding some time for yourself to relax and clear your head is key. Getting a massage, taking a long bath or even just trying to meditate for a few minutes can do wonders for your mind.

Just Write

Start writing everything that comes to mind. Even if it doesn’t really make sense, that’s okay. Sometimes just putting your thoughts onto paper can lead to a really good blog post.

Thanks for reading! How do you beat writer’s block? Let us know in the comments.