I love writing. It’s what I do for a living. But writing can be hard. When you’re hit with a wave of writer’s block (like I was for this blog post), it’s challenging to put cursor to Google Doc. The next time you’re stuck, try these tips:

1. Listen to music. This is my go-to tactic. Open Spotify and pick an old favorite, or choose the tune you can’t get out of your head. The notes and lyrics can help relax you, freeing up your mind for new ideas.
2. Play a video. View a clip from your favorite movie, or watch a TikTok you’ve never seen before. A short video can jumpstart your brain and provide the creative inspiration you need.
3. Find a podcast. Whether you’re listening to a comedy TV show retrospective or a true-crime thriller, podcasts are a great way to get your ideas churning. Plus, they’re a nice break from screen time.
4. Start with the archives. It can be hard to start writing something from nothing. So, go back and look at what you’ve written before. Creating a new assignment while looking at an old one can help give you a framework for the new piece you’re writing. It’ll also remind you that you’ve done this before, which is great motivation!
5. READ. Reading and writing go together like 2020 and tie-dye loungewear. Don’t have time to read a whole novel? Pour through a couple short stories. Getting lost in some fiction can reinvigorate you, putting you in a good headspace for new ideas when you’re on the job.
6. Type it out. Open up a blank document and type out all your thoughts on the subject at hand. Don’t worry about getting it right on the first try. Just get your thoughts down on the page (you can always organize them later).
7. Go to a museum. Art makes you look at the world in a way you never thought of before—and what’s more inspiring than that? If you can’t get to a museum or art gallery right now, follow museums and artists on Instagram for a quick dose of inspiration when you need it. 

How do you deal with writer’s block? Let us know in the comments!

Megha Pai is a writer and content strategist in Pittsburgh. Connect with her on LinkedIn here.