Writer's Block

So, you’ve been trying to keep a journal ever since you found out that a baby was on her (or his) way, but whenever you have time to write (which is never), the words just don’t come pouring out the way they ought to.

Here are a few strategies from Writing Workshop to get the writerly juices flowing:

1. Think of just one tiny meaningful moment to write about in great detail, bit by bit, instead of trying to summarize everything that has happened since the last time you wrote. It might even help to start with dialogue to get things rolling. (i.e. "Could you wash the bottles for me?" I asked.)

2. Try writing detailed descriptions of important images. Close your eyes and just picture something important that happened, and remember it as a snapshot. Now write down everything you see.

3. Still not happy with how your writing is going? Topic choice is everything. Continue writing and thinking about your happiest and most joyful moments, but also consider moments of uncertainty, frustration, or fear. If there’s a new baby in your life it shouldn’t be hard to think of moments like these! You may find that it’s not only a huge relief to put these moments down on paper, but it might turn out to be some of your best writing.

Keep writing! Keeping a notebook is one of the best gifts you can give to yourself and your family.