For those of us who have travel blogs – or any blog/vlog for that matter – it can be hard to stay motivated to post content. I started my travel blog because I have a passion for seeing the world, and sharing these experiences. I also work a full-time job that has recently become more than full time. The evenings of blogging that I used to look forward to are either non-existent or when I do have the time I don’t feel inspired. I’m sure I’m not the only one who suffers from the occasional writer’s block. So to help you (and myself!) I’ve researched some suggestions and identified some things that help me get past writer’s block. In no particular order, I’ve compiled 10 tips to overcome writer’s block for bloggers.
10 Tips for Overcoming Writer’s Block for Bloggers
1. Listen to music – I prefer music with no lyrics when I’m trying to focus. To find some, I usually search for “music for concentration” on YouTube. But if I’m feeling especially unmotivated, I like to take a break and turn on some of my favourite songs. Having a sing-along (or dance party) sometimes helps me get inspired.
2. Change your location – if I’m feeling stuck, sometimes moving to a different room or going outside can give a fresh perspective. Alternatively, you could always take your laptop to a coffee shop or other public spot to change your environment.
3. Brainstorm new ideas – sometimes what I want to write about is not what my brain wants to focus on. Take time to do some brainstorming on other topics and you might find a topic that will motivate or help you overcome your writer’s block.
4. Call a friend or family member – sometimes chatting with someone close to you can help you clear your mind. You can even ask them for their take on the situation! I’ve had a few great ideas come from a chat that pointed me in the right direction to get started.
5. Pinterest – sometimes when I’m feeling demotivated or am having a hard time writing I will head to Pinterest to get ideas. Pinterest always seems to have good ideas and if not, I can always read some motivational quotes.
6. Change your writing routine – I typically write later in the evenings, but sometimes I’m just too tired or not feeling motivated to write. Try changing up your writing times to earlier in the morning, on your lunch break at work, during your commute or even on weekends when you have more free time.
7. Do something else – if I’m especially struggling to write and have tried numerous topics, attempts or angles with no success I will go do something else. Just walking away sometimes can give your mind a break and an idea or inspiration will hit you while you’re attention is elsewhere.
8. Exercise – yeah I know, I’m not really interested in exercising all that much either! But I have found that doing cardio helps me both with managing stress and also clearing my mind. Sometimes I have some of my best ideas while I’m mid-exercise. Plus it never hurts to be a little active. If exercise isn’t your thing, take a walk!
9. Look back at (travel) photos – since my area of focus is travel writing, sometimes looking back at travel photos inspires a post idea. Even if travel isn’t your niche, looking back at photos can inspire ideas for lifestyle, food, or other blogs too.
10. Take to social media – head to one of your social channels and poll your audience. Ask questions or polls on Instagram stories or on a post. Update your Facebook status asking for tips or ideas from your friends. Head to Twitter and scroll through recent Tweets. If you’re getting tips from your followers, they will probably be interested in reading your finished product.
There you have my 10 Tips for Overcoming Writers Block for Bloggers. I hope that they can help you if you’re suffering from a creative block or lack of motivation. If you have any other suggestions, please share them below!