I’ve always heard this term a “reader’s block” and” a writer’s block”. As a reader, I was able to understand what it means to be unable to read a book you’ve already started or another you bought with excitement. Personally speaking, I experienced episodes of opening a book, looking at a page and having all the words gone as if they are written in a language that I don’t understand. I hence thought that it was my problem and that something was wrong with my concentration until I later on realized that I was not alone and that it is a common phenomenon among readers.

          People called it “a reader’s block” and it has nothing to do with individual intelligence or concentration. It was not until lately when I started writing regularly in a weekly magazine, that I realized too that there is also a “writer’s block”. Week after week, ideas flow spontaneously until I hit the wall overnight! I am blocked. I cannot write not because I have nothing to say but because I feel disconnected from my inner self. I cannot put my thought on paper. Why can’t I express myself?

          I had to google to see what was going on with me and whether I will ever get out of this pit hole. It seems that Google felt for me. It gave me a good pat on the shoulder and assured me that it was OK and that a “block” doesn’t mean that I lack the talent or that I lost my skill. Every writer experiences a phase of this block.

          The causes are sometimes unknown. However, analysing the common complaints of writers, they can be summed up in many factors. At times, a writer might think that he/she is not good enough or underestimate the quality or significance of the product. Lack of confidence is a destructive feeling. Daily problems and worries can be a huge distraction to thoughts and concentration.

          Having this said, comes the suggestions for a better performance. On top of the list of how to overcome a writer’s block is the choice of amiable and pleasant topics and writing circumstances. Don’t write in a hurry or a messy room. Don’t pressure yourself. If you don’t feel like writing so don’t force yourself. Otherwise, the process will be a burden on you rather than a nice time. This is applicable to those writing for fun not to make ends meet. Read whenever you feel stuck. Reading will open your senses and imagination triggering new ideas and thoughts.

          Writers who seek perfectionism spend a lot of time correcting grammar and worrying about syntax. Go with the flow of your mind then correct your mistakes later. Take a break. You deserve to relax and ponder over life.

          Writing is not a tedious HW. It is something you like to do and you should enjoy as well. Keep your passion glowing and remember to take a deep breath in order to resume your breathing process.