Any tips on how to overcome writers block? I love my story, and once I get writing I don't really want to stop. Unfortunately, when I do stop I can never get back to it and it makes me question everything about the story.
Screenwriting : Writers Block Tips? by Dylan McKenzie
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So many threads here about writers block. Do a search above. There was one thread started in the past week that really goes into detail. https://www.stage32.com/lounge/screenwriting/Writers-Block-6
"You can NEVER get back to it" !!! A treatment, synopsis or notes would keep you on track and you won't lose momentum even with a slight break from writing. I hope this helps.
Dylan, I created an entire udemy course on this subject, ha ha. If anyone is interested, here's a coupon code for my friends at Stage32. It is, wait for it ..... STAGE32. Here's the link: https://www.udemy.com/writers-success-series-get-your-first-draft-writte... You'll get the course for free (currently it's like $250, but will be much cheaper soon, but not cheaper than free. :D). Might have an idea or two in the course that could help you. Also, on my blog (this all sounds like blatant self-promotion, but it's really not meant to be, it's just that writers block is a huge problem for me and I've just done a lot of research and testing on how to conquer my own), I talk about two things that have had an impact for me. Here are the links: http://carlplumer.com/myattemptofinishmydamnnovelpart1/ http://carlplumer.com/write-my-novel-or-die-trying-part-2-how-to-get-you... Hope some/any of the above helps!
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During the day I use an index card app on my phone when I'm at work and can't completely focus on my writing. So through the course of my day I think about my script and jot down new ideas, and/or improving scenes I have already written. Which leads to my strategy of pushing through writers block, which is to focus on everything I've written so far and find ways to improve any dialogue, character development, or different ways to strengthen an act. I find this tactic paves a path for new and creative ideas.
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Smoke some pot.
Tequila and a punching Bag.
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Writer's block is .1% substance and 99.9% smoke—my 2 cents anyway — http://bit.ly/1Qbr2N3
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In the situation you outlined in your OP, Dylan, it sounds more like doubt than block. We all have doubt. Coppola often has said that if you don't have moments where you think everything is shit, you're not an artist. But, if it's truly a block or a temporary freeze on momentum, write something else. Outline another idea. Remove the stress.
Jeff, please promote your web site and books in Your Stage or on your profile page. Thanks! :)
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Hey Carl, great stuff on your blog! Post it in Your Stage, loads of members will see it there. :)
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ok, this is simple, but it works every time! 1. If you do know what your block is about (what should drive the next action? What is the inciting action?) then do a free write about that - do NOT let yourself stop typing for twenty minutes straight. Even if you have lines like..I have to pee and I dont know what to write - write that and keep going! write what you are trying to work on on the top in big letters to keep bringing yourself back to it. 2. If you do NOT know what the problem is but something just doesnt feel right or you dont know what to do then do a free write for 20 minutes to DISCOVER it. Then do it again- I promise you will get a gem of an idea in there- take that out after and then do a free write on that etc and your writers block will be gone! Also, if I may, definitely have a clear outline and logline BEFORE you start and this wont happen to much (and you can use the 20 minute free write thing to create those : D ) Good luck!
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Winter--You're the first person I've seen that thinks like I do on this. I totally agree with your approach. When writer's block is actually about writing, this is the way to go :)
Great Jeff! And I see you even wrote a book on it : D Glad to see Im in good company with the opinion/approach. I think sometimes as a writer one feels like they are on an island surrounded by their own BS so its good to hear : D Good luck and Ill check out your book!
Jeff- I tried to send you a message but wasnt able to. I have to tell you right away though : ) The first quote in your book- its from a testimony- Michael Angelos quote about the angel in the marble- that is ALWAYS in my mind when Im writing! Had to share the coincidence- have a good day!
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Hi Beth -- thanks! Do you mean, by post, post the links, or cut 'n' paste the entire articles?
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Ha... glad you liked the book. :)
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Hi Carl. :) Yup, share and post links to your blog articles in Your Stage.
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I just read an interesting article about this. It's all about keeping your story inline with the premise, which might be something totally different than you thought: http://www.scriptmag.com/features/script-notes-where-story-begins-premise