Most writers have stared at a blank page, willing the words to come, and wondering why their brilliant ideas seem to vanish the moment they try to write them down. Whether you’re working on a novel, an article, or even an important email, writers’ block can feel like a frustrating wall between your thoughts and the page.
In my latest newsletter, I shared two tips for overcoming writers’ clock. In this extended article, I’d like to share two more strategies, plus some writing prompts.
1. Energise Your Mind and Body
Sometimes your normal environment and routine can be stagnating. When you sit for long periods of time, your muscles are relatively inactive and your cardiovascular system is resting. Boost the flow of blood and oxygen by going for a walk. Choose a spot you enjoy, take a snack or drink, and allow your mind to wander as you stroll. Sometimes this change of scene is enough to find inspiration on a tricky scene, plot hole, or section of dialogue.
Action: Choose a route you enjoy or try a new path. Take a notebook with you, or use the voice recorder on your phone, and write or say whatever comes to mind.self.
2. Use Prompts and Play
Writers’ block often thrives on pressure and perfectionism. Shake things up with a sense of play and permission. Use prompts to bypass your inner critic and surprise yourself.
Here are a few to try in the sci-fi and paranormal genres, which might get those creative juices flowing again:
Mini Task 1: The Dream Frequency
Prompt: People around the world begin sharing the same dream. One person wakes up with a strange mark on their skin.
Mini Task:
Write a short diary entry (5–7 sentences) from the perspective of the person who wakes up with the mark. Focus on sensory detail: What does the mark look like? How do they feel? Are they afraid, excited, confused?
Mini Task 2: The Ghost in the Data
Prompt: A new AI assistant starts saying things only the dead would know.
Mini Task:
Write a brief script of a conversation (5–10 lines) between the AI and a user who just realised the assistant is channelling their late grandmother. Let the voice of the AI be calm and eerie; the user can be sceptical or shocked.
Mini Task 3: Last Planet Standing
Prompt: Colonies are vanishing one by one. A final message is received: “You were never meant to leave.”
Mini Task:
Describe the moment the message is received using only five vivid sentences. Focus on setting the scene: the room, the sound of the transmission, who hears it, and their reaction. Keep it tense and atmospheric.
Action: Set aside 10 minutes today to respond to a creative prompt. Don’t edit, just write.
You can use them as warm-ups before getting back to your main project.
Want more content in your inbox about writing, or fascinating facts and articles about a range of sci-fi, paranormal or conspiracy topics?
Sign up to my newsletter HERE
