Every writer and non-writer has experienced blocks. I experienced it while trying to gear up to finish or even start a project at work back when I worked at a corporation (at a job now described by the youngest working generation as “soul-sucking.”) I experienced a “block”whenever I had to start or finish a project.
I now think writer’s block is just fear compounded by procrastination, or procrastination caused by fear or dread.
I would dread starting a project knowing how much energy it would take. I feared failing (which happened sometimes). I feared getting fired from my job. With writers, it might be fear of rejection, that you’d spend a year or longer on a book only to have it rejected.
Add in ADHD or some milder form of attention deficit, and starting and completing a project becomes more complicated.
The Internet is a great help, but also a great distraction. The Internet and Social Media gives our procrastination and attention deficit fuel.
I’ve tried programs that forbid me to enter into a site until my allotted writing hours are up. I’m proud and ashamed to say I’ve defeated all these programs.
I’ve tried wondering why in the world I’m writing when I could be enjoying myself in the outdoors or knitting or cooking or doing something that produces something tangible.
For now, I’m continuing to write, if only because writing books was and is something I’ve always wanted to do. Even if I get rejected. Even if I never make much money.
Now, I think I’ll go on Insta–see what’s happening there.
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