Writer's block is a common problem among professional writers. If you've ever sat down to work and found that you couldn't form a single sentence, you are probably dealing with writer's block. Fortunately this is extremely common and there are many methods of over-coming writer's block. Here are a few.

Do a Writing Exercise

Sometimes just sitting down and doing a writing exercise can help to get the mind working. There are a variety of different types of writing exercises, think back to school and you will probably remember some. Try scratching down every word that comes to mind in one minute or writing a journal page. Whatever it is sometimes writing something on paper can get the mind going in the right direction once again and help you to finish your pending assignment.

Read Something

I often find that reading helps to inspire me to write. Sometimes when I am writing on a topic, even one that I am very familiar with, I will read what someone else has written down just to get a fresh perspective. Other times I can just read an article or story on something completely unrelated and all sorts of ideas fly into my head. Regular reading is one of the most important methods of keeping your writing skills sharp.

Step Away From Your Desk

Sometimes a change of scenery can help break up an otherwise mundane day. Take your laptop or some writing materials to the park or a coffee shop. Sit down and see what comes out. You might be surprised at how effective a change of scenery can be in over-coming writer's block.

Take a Shower

As odd as it sounds sometimes when things just aren't flowing for me I take a quick ten or fifteen minute shower. The distraction relaxes me and leaves me feeling refreshed. Suddenly I find that I can write again. Many times the key to over-coming writer's block is first over-coming stress, anxiety, or exhaustion. A shower or even a power nap can help with all of these. Once the underlying problem is gone the writer's block usually follows suit.