When I posted my first blog earlier this year, I knew I would have to work through challenges like writer’s block—all good writers do (wink).  However, because of my approach to writing, I underestimated just how bad it could get for me.  I mean, I am not trying to be an expert on any of the subject matter that I share.  My life, what I have learned through experience and observation, is my research and I rely more on ‘promptings’ than I do artistry to create.  My objective is to connect with my audience, not to entertain—vulnerability is my go-to for that, so I was certain I had the perfect recipe for a nice steady flow of material…(facepalm).

Writer’s block is not a bad thing nor is it something that can or should be avoided. Although I had experienced it before, this time was different.  In previous bouts I suffered more of an artistic or creative challenge and felt burned out and apathetic toward writing.  However, this time, I was motivated to write but struggled to do it and that frustrated me.

To address my writer’s block, I began to peruse the internet for exactly what it is and what might be causing it. Ironically, what I found is contrary to what I thought but exactly what I was dealing with. According to Merriam-Webster, writer’s block is a psychological inhibition preventing a writer from proceeding with a piece. Although it affects people differently, some of the most common causes of writer’s block are fear, perfectionism, self-criticism, and external pressure(s). To my surprise, the most common treatments for writer’s block include exercise, switching tasks, changing your scenery, free-writing and creating a noise free workspace…(confused face). Why aren’t the common ‘cures’ more closely aligned with the common causes? (Shrug, that’s for a different blog)

**Disclaimer: I am a proponent of ALL therapeutic models and encourage you to find what works for you and work it!**

I could clearly see all the common causes of writer’s block at work in me, but I could not understand why. Why did I feel fear? Why was perfectionism robbing me of valuable time and energy? Why am I a harsh critic of myself? What external pressures were getting between me and writing? The more I thought about it, the more frustrated I became and the further I moved away from writing.

Fear

Fear is a tricky emotion that ranges from apprehension (alarm or agitation) to terror (intense overmastering fear) and can be brought on by mood disorders like anxiety.  However, sometimes, fear is initiated by the presumed threat of pain or harm, both real and imagined and can be triggered by darkness, heights, animals, and death.  Fear is something that I have dealt with for as long as I can remember, and this list of triggers was mine.  I was afraid of the dark, heights, most animals and bugs, death and feeling alone…I absolutely HATE feeling alone!

The Cause. Whiles I could handle the scrutiny that comes with putting myself (and my stuff) “out there” for an unknown audience to examine and critique, I became consumed with thoughts of being misunderstood and rejected, both of which, in my mind, meant being alone. (Bingo, found the cause!)  Now, with the cause identified, I turned my attention toward a ‘cure’.

The Cure. In my experience, the only effective way to deal with this type of fear, fear of rejection or abandonment, is to turn toward it and run as fast as you can. This type of fear is relentless and invasive, once it sets in it takes over. Another aspect of this fear, for me at least, is that it is real…in part. Sure, some will read my blogs and form strong opinions about me and my life and choose not to be a part of it, and that is ok. In fact, I am learning that some rejection is good. However, I cannot forget to remember that there are people, in my audience, who know me, whether in real life or through their own experience that I just happened to articulate and share and they, aren’t going anywhere!

Please keep in mind, this blog is primarily about writer’s block, not fear of rejection or abandonment. As a person who has dealt with the fear of rejection and abandonment in real life, I am in no way trying to cheapen that experience or the impact it can have on your life and relationships. Please consider seeking professional counseling as you deem appropriate and necessary.