Writer’s block is something every writer faces from time to time. But while it’s a common problem that can get in the way of productivity and making money, it’s not all bad. Here’s why: Not every writing session has to be devoted to writing for the job. Practice writing can be just as purposeful by giving you the opportunity to hone your skills and recharge your mind and creativity. In fact, a day of practice might just be the ticket to reversing writer’s block. Even better, there are ways to practice writing that will pay off big. Here are ten to get you started:
Write To-Do Lists
Not only are to-do lists fun to write; they’re a great way to organize your routine. Check out my earlier blog post on writing to-do lists. Make them as short, long, simple, or detailed as you want. Then use your lists to help you get back on track with your professional writing endeavors.
Compose an E-mail
To anyone! Write to a family member you haven’t spoken to in a while. Send out a request for writer’s guidelines to publishers you’re interested in querying. Or, draft an anonymous e-mail—just for practice and the sheer fun of it.
Design a Flyer
Are you’re planning a garage sale? Organizing a fundraiser? Design an attention-grabbing flyer for the event. Have fun choosing words, images, and fonts. Your creative practice can earn you plenty of kudos, along with cash.
Pen a Thank You Note
Handwritten thank you notes may be a thing of the past, but that doesn’t mean they’re not appreciated. If you have someone to express gratitude to, go for it. They’ll appreciate the gesture and you’ll get satisfaction too, along with some useful writing practice.
Offer to Edit
A writer friend or spouse may be able to use your help with something they’ve written. Offer it up. You’ll gain editing experience and the joy of doing someone a favor. Editing is also a nice diversion from writing that still offers practice working with words.
Rewrite a Bio or Resume
Bios and resumes always need updating. Find a fresh photo and revise your experience to reflect your growth. It’s great practice and something you’ll need to do eventually. If your bio and resume are already up-to-date, offer to rewrite one for someone else.
Make Up a Word Game
Love to think up word games? The sky’s the limit when it comes to conjuring up puzzles using words. Make up with something unique or create your own version of a familiar word game. Be sure to test your word game out on friends or family—that’s half the fun.
Record the Details of Your Day
Whether you journal regularly or not, it’s a great way to practice writing in an informal, liberating way. For tips of how to get started, check out this post. The benefits of journalling go far beyond the writing sphere; you’ll gain confidence, peace of mind, and an optimistic outlook too.
Cut Words
Find a newspaper article or blog post that interests you and start chopping away. Take out everything you can without changing the meaning and readability of the piece. It’s great practice for slimming down word counts in your professional work.
Create Captions
Wish you could put a caption on your favorite picture on the wall? How about the scene outside your window or last night’s dream? Writing captions is a satisfying way to practice writing and pass time, not to mention a great activity for tapping into your creativity.
You don’t always have to write to sell. Whether you’re facing writer’s block or just want a day of simplicity, practice writing can be the perfect solution. Give the above ideas a try, and see how fun and rewarding it is to practice your craft.
Image by Nick Youngson