Writer’s block. For me there are two types: the first is the “WIP (Work in Progress)” block. This happens when trying to flesh out details with a WIP, usually during a rewrite or in the editing process. It involves specific scenes, dialogue, plot points, perhaps even rewriting the minutiae of characterization. These types of blocks are very specific to a work. The second type is a full-on “what’s my next story” block. Each of these blocks have a different process for resolution. Therefore, this month, I’m only addressing the WIP-type block.
When working through a specific detail block in a WIP, the first thing I do is take a break and walk. If I’m being perfectly honest, the story is never out of my head. There is no true escape. Until I’m in final revisions (and sometimes not even then) I am constantly thinking of plot points, dialogue (yes, I hear them in my head), or how to create a more believable/enticing/sphincter tightening twist. So, my only escape is to change my environment, which means going outside and walking. Sometimes the walk is short, just a few miles, while other times I may spend a few hours walking. Usually this does the trick. OH! I make sure I have my phone with me so I can write the “solution”. (I tried dictation, and while it may work for you, I’m way more tactile and need to actually type and see the notes for this to be effective.)
If I’m really stuck, I take a hot shower. For some reason some of my best, most original ideas happen there. While I do not recommend taking your phone there, I do highly recommend a waterproof notepad. (You can buy them on Amazon, duh.) But this process works for blocks in an already conceived work, to a specific detail or scene.
For me, a lot of working through a block is learning more about my writing process, and the only way to work through, and learn, my process is to just do it. You can’t do anything with an empty page. Writing is mainly AIS (Ass In Seat)/BIC (Butt In Chair), especially when you feel stuck. It sounds, and will feel, counterintuitive, but just keep writing.