Most people think writer's block means a lack of ideas.

It's usually not a lack of ideas, but rather a symptom of different problems entirely.

One such problem is comparison to others. This occurs when you know what to write, you're simply afraid of looking inferior to someone else's content. Especially other "experts" in your niche that may have been studying or working longer in your field than you.

This is adjacent to general anxiety, another root cause of writer's block. 

General anxiety brings that devastating imposter syndrome — making you feel like your words aren't good enough. That they'll lack impact.

It dresses up like the grim reaper and whispers in your ear that you're a fraud. That no one will want to read your words and therefore you'll get 0 engagement...

Needing writer's block help isn't new. Every creator I know has struggled with it... And it's especially prominent in business owners creating content in hopes of leads, since they are actively wanting to sell their service.

The above negative emotions are normal, and I want to help you get past them.

Because in the end, writing and creating content is important. For sales, to prove your expertise, to build your personal brand, and so much more. 

If you find yourself stuck creatively, here's 3 exercises I use to get past writer's block which may help:

Exercise One: Write With Random Word Constraints

I find this exercise fun more than anything else. It helps get the brain flowing...

Go to a random word generator website and prompt it to give you 2-3 random words. Take those words and write about your topic while including those random words.

This might bring some pain at first, like a punch in the gut, but once you create something using these constraints you'll find it's an entertaining way to write.

Often times, when it comes to the creative process or business itself, constraints open up more doors than they close. As though a wizard wielding a magical staff removed tangled cobwebs from your brain.

Related: Check out these questions for business growth for constraints that deliver more profit for your online business.

Exercise Two: Headline Prompts

This exercise will set the stage for what to write by taking a viral subject and letting you fill in your own story.

Go browse any social media feed or blogging website. Find a title or hook that catches your eye. One that stops you in your tracks...

Write a piece of your own content using the exact same hook. Change 0 words. Literally steal the hook or headline word for one and go for it.

This will eliminate any barriers to the process of starting to write, and getting past that initial barrier is usually all it takes. 

Just don't forget to change the hook afterward.

Exercise Three: Photograph Prompts

Pick up the phone that's sitting on your desk (or maybe it's already in your hand).

Go to your camera roll. Start scrolling through your library.

Pick one that sparks a memory in your brain and tell the story from that day. Here's an easy opening formula you can use to get words on the page and set your scene:

"X days ago, I was at [place photo was taken] and learned a valuable lesson on [topic]."

For example:

"4 days ago, I was in a small town in Puerto Rico and learned a valuable sales lesson from a local vendor."

 Photos spark memories. Memories lead to stories. And those stories are an excellent way to star tthe creative process and connect with your audience.

Final reminder

Everyone's stories and expertise are worth sharing. Yours included.

If you feel stuck because you're feeling "less than" others that are also writing and creating content... Understand this is normal for everyone, regardless of how successful they may look from the outside.

Take a deep breath. Try one of the 3 exercises above, and have fun creating.

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