Writer’s block is the worst. It’s something that every creative has to deal with—but that doesn’t make it easy to beat.

Writer’s block can feel overwhelming at times. All you want to do is create but you end up wasting time and getting nowhere. You might even start to doubt yourself or believe that you’re not cut out for the music business.

It’s OK—we’ve all been there. That’s why we put together this list of helpful tips for beating writer’s block and staying creative in the studio. But first, let’s talk about what writer’s block actually is.

What Is Writer’s Block?

We’re all familiar with writer’s block—that stagnant, vacant feeling when you can’t come up with any new ideas no matter how hard you try. But why does it seem like sometimes the music flows right out of your fingertips, while others it feels like you don’t have a drop of creative juices left in your body?

What actually causes writer’s block?

That depends, but the short answer is discipline. Just like any skill, you have to practice.

Sometimes the time of day can cause writer’s block. Everybody is different—some of us are most creative while sipping our morning cup of coffee, while others prefer the solitude of working at night. Try to carve out space and make writing part of your routine—even for just 15 minutes a day. By writing every day, you can train your brain to write better material, faster.

Sometimes fear can cause writer’s block. Whether you’re afraid of what people might think of your music, or just afraid of not being able to create something you love, fear can be a huge hurdle for any writer. 

The trick is to learn to be OK with creating something that isn’t perfect. The first draft of your favorite song wasn’t perfect. It probably took hours of edits and rewrites to get it to where it is today. 

Have you ever heard the quote, “The master has failed more times than the beginner has even tried?” Most of your songs won’t be your best songs. But the more you write, the better you’ll get at writing, so keep at it!

I'm aware that telling someone to write more when they ask how to beat writer’s block is kind of like telling someone to use their ears when they ask for mixing advice—so here are some more practical tips to beating writer's block while you sharpen your writing skills.

 

P.S.

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