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Old 05-21-2008
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Default Beat Writer's Block, An Article by Kim Lednum
Having occasionally suffered from this particular affliction myself, I thought this great article by Kim Lednum might help others! Enjoy!



"Beat Writer's Block: Start Writing Your Next Article with These Fun Exercises"


Do you ever find yourself staring at a blank piece of paper or computer screen? It can sometimes feel like you are locked into a staring contest. The only problem is the paper and computer won't blink first!

Regardless of whether you are just beginning to write or are a prolific writer, we've all been there. You have something to say and you need to get it out of your head and onto the page. But your mind and fingers don't seem to want to cooperate. This is a classic case of writer's block.

As an internet-based business owner, I do a lot of writing. I write and publish a newsletter. I write website copy, sales letters, and even email letters. I write articles and content for information-based products. I also write some other types of marketing materials. That's a lot of writing.

I frequently use my computer to do all this writing, which means I am often starting out my project looking at a blank screen. It can be intimidating at times, even for me, and I have been writing for over twenty years.

My secret weapon for those times when I seem to be in the ultimate staring showdown is a fun little warm-up exercise I do. Amazingly, it gets my fingers typing and the words magically start filling the page. The reason these warm-up activities work is very simple. They help your logical left brain get out of your way so that your creative "write" brain can take over.

Warm-up writing exercises are a fun way to stretch your creativity muscles. If you have ever participated in any kind of aerobic activity you know it's very important to warm up your muscles, and gradually increase your heart rate before you start moving around at a fast pace. If you don't take the few minutes of time to warm up first you run the risk of injuring your body.

Well, warming up your writing and creativity muscles can help you beat writer's block and get you in the "write" state of mind so your words and thoughts can flow out onto the page.

Here are seven of my favorite writing warm-up exercises. The next time you are facing a blank page or screen, pick one of them to get yourself into the "write" frame of mind.

There are only three simple rules for using these exercises. 1) Set your timer for ten to fifteen minutes. 2) Let yourself go, don't stop and edit. 3) Try to keep writing until you fill one page.

Exercise #1: Write a letter to your favorite animal or pet.

Exercise #2: Describe what a perfect day in your business would look like.

Exercise #3: Finish the following starter sentence. "My inner writing critic is telling me...."

Exercise #4: Answer the question, "If you could do business from anywhere in the world, where would that be?"

Exercise #5: Write about a picture or photo in your office.

Exercise #6: Write about three seemingly unconnected things and try to tie them together. For example, a goldfish bowl, a train, and a Fig Newton cookie.

Exercise #7: Write about an object on your desk. Describe it using all five senses: smell, feel, sound, sight and taste.

Remember, to unlock writer's block use a writing warm-up exercise. They make writing fun, help your mind to relax, and shift your thinking from logical left to creative right.

Yours In Attracting Success,
Kim

Business writing coach Kim Lednum, "The Write Promotion Coach for Business," teaches self-employed professionals how to write articles that elevate your credibility, attract more clients, and make more money in your small business. To get your FREE tips now visit:

http://www.attractbusinessnow.com

© 2008 Kim Lednum
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Old 07-08-2008
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Default Re: Beat Writer's Block, An Article by Kim Lednum
We've seen a few of Kim's articles and teleseminars on the boards here - she is SUCH a great resource of information.

Thanks very much for sharing this article in particular, Kate - great suggestions!
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Old 11-14-2008
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Default Re: Beat Writer's Block, An Article by Kim Lednum
Hi Kate,

That article was awesome and very insightful! Thanks for sharing!

I'd certainly try those tricks when I am approaching a big 'block!' lol
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