How to overcome writer’s block
Last updated: September 2026
Writer’s block is frustrating, but if you’re creating regular content for your website, it’s pretty much a given that you’ll experience it at some point.
There are tons of reasons for writer’s block, from having a head full of other work to not getting enough sleep the night before. But that’s no help when you’re staring at a blank screen and you’re up against a deadline.
I’ve been there - many times!
The good news is that there are lots of little techniques you can try when the words aren’t flowing. You don’t need to use them all - just find the ones that work for you.
9 ways to overcome writer’s block
1. Write a crappy first draft
When I first heard another writer talk about giving yourself permission to write a crappy first draft, it was a game changer. All the pressure of coming up with something amazing on the first go just disappeared.
Remind yourself that nobody else will be reading your words, and write whatever comes to mind. Forget about spelling, grammar or layout. Just write!
Once you’ve done that, walk away, make a brew, or even sleep on it overnight. Then, go back to your draft and begin editing to make it into something great. Writing and editing are two completely different skills, so having some time between the two can help.
2. Start in the middle
Writing the introduction is often the hardest part, especially if you’re trying to write it first. It’s difficult to come up with an introduction to something you’ve not written yet.
So, I usually find it easier to start writing in the middle.
I get straight to the heart of the subject where my ideas are bubbling over. Then, once it’s all out of my head, I can look through what I’ve written and come up with the introduction and conclusion.
3. Keep a running list of ideas
A running list of ideas can help prevent writer’s block because you already have something to work on when it’s time to write your next post.
Some people suggest spending half an hour a week to brainstorm ideas, but I prefer to make a note of things as they come to me throughout the week. An email or conversation can often spark a thought, so I want to grab it while I can.
I use Asana for my content planning, so that’s where I record the ideas too - but a document or notes app on your phone will work just as well.
You may also be interested in reading 52 blog post ideas (when you have no idea what to write about) →
4. Use a mind map
I love mind mapping, especially when I’m researching something new. I write the main topic in the middle of a piece of paper, then draw lines to sub-topics, and more lines to expand on those.
It pulls all my random thoughts together and gives me an outline for the blog post.
You can use online mind mapping tools, but I personally prefer a paper version. For some reason, the physical act of drawing makes my thoughts flow better - and I can see the bigger picture. When I come to write the blog post, I then use a highlighter to cross through the points I’ve covered.
5. Jump the difficult parts
When your mind goes blank, or you’re getting hung up on how to articulate something, it often helps to skip that section. It keeps you in the flow of writing and gives you the chance to reflect and come back to the tough parts later.
To do that, I type xxx for words or paragraphs that I’m struggling to write. Then, when my crappy first draft is finished, I go back and work on those sections with a fresh pair of eyes.
6. Set a timer
This is a great way to cut through procrastination. By setting a timer for short, focused intervals, you break up the writing into manageable chunks, making it feel less overwhelming.
When I’m struggling, I set a 45-minute timer to fully focus and promise myself a treat - something like a cuppa or 5 minutes in the garden when it’s done. Bizarrely, it often gets me into flow and I don’t want the break.
7. Go for a walk
One of the best ways to deal with writer’s block is to walk away. If your mind really is struggling, taking a break helps you get away from the problem for a while and can clear your mind.
Going for a walk is my favourite way.
Usually, I’ll get back and find that I’ve unconsciously worked out the part I was struggling with while I was out.
8. Ask AI for help
AI can help you unblock your thinking, even if you don’t want it to do the actual thinking or writing for you.
When you’re stuck for words, adding a prompt to an AI tool like ChatGPT can help you come up with new ideas. It’s also great for helping you find different ways to articulate your thoughts.
If you do use AI to help you write, make sure you edit what it gives you and add your own experience and expertise before publishing.
9. Speak out loud instead
Lots of people find that speaking comes more naturally than writing.
One of my top tips for writing conversational content is to write as if you’re chatting to a friend. You could build on that by saying everything out loud as you record it on your phone. Then you just need to transcribe it.
Also think about whether writing is the best way to reach your audience. If they prefer listening to podcasts or watching videos, do that instead.
Need help working out what to say?
Sometimes the hardest part of creating content isn’t the writing. It’s knowing what your business needs to say.
I can help you work out what information your customers need, where it should live, and what content is worth creating. Whether you need help with your website, content or search visibility, we can work out where to focus next.
You may find these helpful next:
52 blog post ideas (when you have no idea what to write about)
How to write conversational content: 10 simple tips and examples
I’m Jacquie Budd, and I help small businesses make sense of their websites, content and search. Learn more about me →
