How to Overcome Writer's Block Once and For All

[@omeysalvi]

Such a calm and soothing voice. He is the Bob Ross of writing.

[@julianatavares509]

I don’t even feel like writing when I listen to him. :)

[@rebeccagarba8413]

You got that right! 😀

[@jarltrippin]

"Done is better than perfect," as they say; if you can finish a novel, then you're leaps and bounds ahead of most aspiring authors. You rock, Jerry.

[@williamr.c.4168]

That advice on Perfectionism is a flat-out game-changer.

[@blackhawksfan2525]

For me, anxiety masqueraded as perfectionism for about 15 years. I'd edit, rewrite, change my first few chapters over and over again, and never get past it. All the while, ideas for the rest of the book, and subsequent books in the series, were piling up in my brain. It wasn't that those first few chapters were necessarily sub-par work. I was simply afraid to move on because my greatest anxiety has always been going from zero to first draft. Once I figured that out, and simply forced myself to get the first draft down, my anxiety subsided, and I finished the first book within 6 months.

[@chloem8613]

I’m exactly the same way. I started noticing my own “rewriting the first few chapters 50 times” problem when I was about 15 as well. That’s why I laughed when he brought it up! It was genuinely ridiculous how I thought I was being productive in my writing back then!

[@nativechique7589]

Oh my gosh I'm working on my first story and I get more ideas for more books

[@piecestogether6450]

@@nativechique7589 it's the same for me even.

[@melissabilleaud7410]

Who found this while you were procrastinating from writing? [Mr. Jenkins, sir, you are an inspiration.]

[@hescjay]

Me 🙋🏾‍♂️

[@neofulcrum5013]

Definitely

[@sarahshah4298]

The way you say things, it's so kind and polite, as if you care so very much ,so helpful and motivating.

[@Tez778]

@Daniel Sariego Good luck bro!

[@ssnowypug]

yess!! this is what I was thinking :)

[@ambitiouswriter8008]

Very right 👍

[@RobertoX-ro8sv]

This is the single most important video for any writer. "Write your first draft while supressing your inner editor/ perfectionist." This is EXACTLY what's been killing me, wow! So ibvious, and I didn't see it. Thanks again Jerry!

[@MagicFilm-dg9xk]

how are things going now ?

[@anonymous-c7179]

I write music and struggle with writers block. This opened my eyes to a whole new outlook on my writing.

[@91Definite]

You’re ain’t alone man I make rap songs and here and there I really get blocked a lot now as an adult.

[@DivMack]

I used to produce music and can confirm writers block exists in that profession too. Not just with lyrics, with instrumentals. It stems from over thinking to the point that fresh ideas can’t get through. I found that if I stepped away from the project for a couple of days, fresh ideas came to me naturally without me trying to force them.

[@robertsimmons1653]

Who else is feeling motivated? I know I am!

[@PeppersMom]

I've been writing a novel for over 25 years now. I get multiple story ideas and abandon it, or life happens, and it becomes impossible to keep up. I'm thinking at this point it's waiting for me to season before I can give it the flavor it deserves. I'm delighted I found your video channel. It's very generous of you to share your experience and advice. Thank you!

[@Paula-pd6qv]

This was SO helpful! I’ve listened to this video multiple times now to really interiorize every single advice given. So, so good.

[@madclownrhip]

I used this video to procrastinate writing. Thank you. It worked well. I felt bad about doing it but it worked.

[@phoebedeneve2104]

I'm a newbie at writing, and I get writer's block a lot so this video really helped.

[@gmaneis]

I'm just a hobby writer, not out to publish anything, but I love making up stories, and your advice is excellent for me and anyone like me, because every writer can be easily distracted or frozen by ridiculous fears. Thank you, Jerry!

[@gballmaier]

I saw you at Calvary Chapel over 20 years ago. Regarding the Christian Writers Guild. I'm now 60 this August and I feel God has put an urgency in my heart. My heart goes out to our young men struggling for acceptance purpose, and iso passionately want to show them all that Jesus can help them through. I had a difficult childhood, and now I have a son. God has showed me so much about His love for me, through my son. I'm not a writer but, always value powerful words, and statements. And for some weird reason, I'm always ruining new book titles in my head , as God teaches me new things. For the first time in my life, I have time to do this, if from God. Thank you, Sir. Greg

[@orionlord]

I've just decide to start writing, so I can say I am a noob and found your channel very helpful. Please keep sharing your tips, I really love it.

[@Musicienne-DAB1995]

We all began as noobs. Keep writing!

[@timp918]

I recommend Donald Miller and Kendall Haven too. Haven has communication research and Don is known for New York Times best selling memoires. I believe Don is coming out with a book for writers soon and has already produced a few webinars on writing.

[@thepersonaofgrace]

"Stand up to it like you would stand up to a bully." That did it for me.

[@TheJoyfulEye]

This is a good video -- thank you! He says there is really no such thing as "writer's block": behind the myth is fear, procrastination, perfectionism, and distractions. Use your fear to motivate you to work hard by humbly acknowledging that your fears are legitimate. Recognize that procrastination is part of the writing process and schedule it (within reason) into your calendar. Perfectionism has a place (once you have finished your draft and are revising / editing) but don't let your inner critic loose when you are concentrating on getting words onto paper when you are writing your draft; keep production and revision separated. To eliminate distractions, stick to a strict writing schedule and make it a priority --- outside of true emergencies, don't allow anything to interfere with your writing time.

[@hescjay]

Amen! You summed it up greatly.

[@rahulchaudhary6740]

wow that's like a slap in the face and I still have to wait for the end for the reward

[@12thDecember]

My dog telepathically communicating: "Ma, I want to go for a walk!" Me: *"Sorry, honey, I've got walker's block."* 😄

[@chloem8613]

This video was unbelievably clarifying. I’d begun to get really frustrated with myself because I felt like I was never making any progress on my writing ( or any other creative projects for that matter….). But all the things that kept me from sitting down and just focusing were not only listed here, but given incredibly good solutions to. Your video had me laughing at my own ridiculous patterns, and how easily you broke them down and gave real, clear, solutions. Thank you so much, this was extraordinarily helpful!!

[@okflix1024]

Thank you Jerry. I'm a freelance writer and now feel confident to complete some of my written work I've put on hold for years. I have really enjoyed listening to your wisdom and writing experience that we as writers need to hear today. Blessing from Australia and NZ.

[@Ritualfinancial101]

Thank you! I’m SUCH a protectionist & I end up spending an hour on a page then getting frustrated & thinking it’ll never amount to a whole book. Love the affirmation to just write first. Then edit - otherwise I’ll never get past the first page.

[@anandaferraresi]

Writing is quantity over quality. Editing is quality over quantity. Got it.

[@lawrenceraj1]

"Procrastination... Not only do I embrace it -I schedule it right into my calendar!" OMG! That is so hilarious! And a very quotable quote, if ever there was one! Hehehe, thanks for the chuckle. I will not be 'putting off' the remainder of this video -that's for certain...

[@InfCreatora]

The biggest thing that prevented me from writing was my health condition since I was young age. But I'm still trying to be a good writer for my own novel. Wish you all luck ☺️.

[@sodapopcowboy8620]

Same to you!

[@spiritwithusjulianpalumbo4501]

I applied your wonderful advice to my art work and it completely worked! The block is fear and pride that you'll be embarrassed. Self protection kicks in and causes me to procrastinate. The answer is embrace humility and use the talent that i do have with God's help! Its so freeing! Thanks!

[@joshuasinclair4463]

Writing my first novel now. It's working. This guy is a champ.

[@curtismmichaels]

It's hard to call it writer's block when it's been going on for 2 years, but everything you addressed here has come into play over these last 2 years for me, especially fear. When you said, "I should be afraid. I'm not good enough. My competition is vast and talented." Then you advised embracing that, I knew right then that I've been writing for social media enough to be reminded that I am good enough to reach some people, and that I am afraid of rejection. I can embrace this. Here goes! Thanks.

[@squirrellordsgaming2772]

Thank you, I've been thinking about stories for decades. I want to get them out of my head and onto paper once and for all. I have a long story of my own, but I just want to tell good Sci-Fi and Fantasy.

[@gcong2]

I’m having the guts to work on my first fictional novel and this was a GREAT insite on what I needed to hear. Thank you for that boost of confidence I needed.

[@steadfastfitness]

You are spot on! It’s not only motivating to hear this but so comforting to hear that it happens to a many-times-over published author. Thank you for this!

[@deedanielson5482]

Thank you man, I am overcoming the writer's block. Fear is normal and we can all overcome it. Thank you so much man. I am looking forward to finish writing my first book

[@JDGage]

This advice was given to me and I wanted to share it with all of you. “Writing is a way of clarifying your thoughts on a matter. It also has the advantage that it forces you to make all your thoughts and beliefs on a given topic consistent. This point improves your credibility in a discussion because you then have a clear - unambiguous - explanation for all aspects of the topic. (Too often, many people's arguments are "rather ambiguous" and often downright contradictory.) It's worth noting that experienced people will often describe - in detail - what they are seeing in a technical investigation (i.e. what do I see in the microscope/photograph/scene etc). These - detailed -descriptions are then included somewhere in the final report. In summary, writing forces you to clarify your thoughts on a topic and then notice "fine details" you may have otherwise missed. Bringing all those "fine details" into one - consistent - story makes the difference between a credible report and a "not so credible" report. Writing - in itself - is a worthwhile activity as it helps you to grow in understanding. This is a goal that is quite apart from selling your writing." - Dennis Murphy

[@Zachor-v-Aseh]

Agree

[@bunz6897]

You've become my Yoda. I have suffered from these things and ended up either burning or deleting manuscripts entirely, even after years of work. My teachers, and my mother (who herself was a harsh critic that had read a book a day from an early age) all encouraged me to continue writing. "You'll win a Pulitzer," was an echo throughout my youth. I never believed them, and still have trouble believing I can achieve that level. You, however, are equipping me with your decades of experience, and I thank you from the bottom of my soul.

[@thelearnwellprojects]

I really enjoy your tips. They are not cookie-cutter marketing pieces. They really are helpful, insightful and simple! Thanks!

[@Ninja_Alien_2809]

Procrastination is my biggest problem in writing. Especially before something big happens in the story (a battle, death of a character, a huge twist, etc.). Turning off the inner editor help bunches. If I start editing while still in the writing stage, I find it really slows things down. I deeply appreciate your advice! May God bless you!

[@adrithmanvik1853]

Best advice I've seen addressing this PROPERLY instead of saying jUsT wRiTe. You sir have earned a sub.

[@anniecarroll8010]

You are succinct and to the point without being rude, I also appreciate your self deprecation. I have been in a dry spot for a year, partly because of me and partly because of circumstances. I really want to write this book and am determined to finish it. My biggest problem is wanting to edit as I go. Thank you and Blessings

[@twan688]

I'm not even a writer, I just like having his voice and ideas going on in the background.

[@doretteokpanachi4933]

Thank you so much for sharing!

[@fionatanzer5270]

Thank you, Jerry. I specifically like your statements about fear and procrastination and that the best approach is to accept them and use them. I have already realised that procrastination usually means that I need to do some mental work or rethink what I am writing, but at times I have been crippled by fear. So thanks for your advice. I still suffer from perfectionism, though I have resolved to put that pesky internal editor to rest until I need it. I find that I tend to start self editing during the 1st draft when I am not sure of what I am writing. Some stories have an easy wonderful flow and others limp. It's the ones that limp that attract the editor's attention! I shall wrestle though.... As for distraction....... I'll get the app you mentioned or one like it. I'd removed lots of media distractions, but KZbin is my weakness....

[@bhoqeem1975]

I like your style, Jerry. I really do. Soft-spoken, to the point but polite, what you deliver actually make sense, engaging, text materials are made with great taste--especially on the covers, font choice and formatting, and most importantly: encouraging. Your channel is choked full of precious knowledge.

[@jakealden2517]

Jerry, your videos are as valuable as though you offered a professional writing course for free! Thank you. These videos are more valuable than going to conferences.

[@dudemantype]

That last bit, distractions, has been an absolute challenge for me lately, especially since my gf started working from home. Thankfully she's been incredibly supportive and understands how it works. One other thing that really helps with writers block for me: structure in my writing. A skeleton plot, plan, core script, a road map... anything. If I get lost or run aground, I just take a step back and look at the plan, regroup, reorientate, and carry on. It really helps loads. His 3rd point is also important, keep on writing. Refine later. Keep the creative flow going... and keep a sabotage page handy (to note stray thoughts)

[@courtenaypuckett26]

This process sounds so much like what artists can do also in the studio. Thankful for your wisdom!!

[@martinantab3520]

Kinda funny that i found out my problems were every single one mentioned here. I didn't now, i didn't even have a clue, but now i know. I am happy that i found this video and YT channel. Thank you so much!

[@sammed.]

You are the only person that makes any sense on KZbin.

[@00ghostcobra]

The perfectionist point is what really got me.. I had balled up and thrown away so many pieces of paper because what I wrote on them not being good enough it should be considered a crime.. That is when I used to do all of my writing on notebook paper..

[@thatskindacreepystorytelli520]

I love that I found this channel. I'm just starting out with short stories, but you hit the nail on the head about procrastination, writers block and distractions. I'm so motivated now. Thanks.

[@rivenwood3841]

Fear is your friend, you use fear for you allow it to show you your short comings, motivates to make us better.

[@cassianpicaro]

Damn, you said exactly what i have been saying to myself and my friends. The term that “you should embrace your fear and use it to motivate ourselves and work harder” instead of telling lies. I don’t like those people who keep on saying that we should tell ourselves that we are good and that or work is great. Spreading forced positivity is so annoying to me. They are just lying to themselves.

[@natarajanravichandran8086]

I am not writing a book. But, this is sage wisdom to follow through in any profession. Thank You for sharing this. It is actually helpful and makes sense!

[@Thishamdle]

This could be the most valuable video ever made for advising new writers. Thank you, sir.

[@joandasilva37]

Thanks Jerry; some of your advices are simple and logical, but probably the hardest ones to put in practice. I'll force myself to stop editing while writing and see where it goes. I had the illusion of thinking that writing a captivating story was an easy thing to do; before I started and realize how difficult it is. I found confidence and comfort in your teachings.

[@hinduismwithpremananddasbhagat]

I overcome writer's block by writing what is ever in my mind, and being willing to edit so much that it ALL might be deleted. (I once roughed out a draft of a play, 16 pages ... I deleted all but 2. The rewrite eventually landed at 40 pages and was way better.) I always struggled with "writer's block" until I got a job as a newspaper journalist. I had a deadline. No time, days or months to look for inspiration. I had to write, or I had to forfeit getting paid and expect to be fired. What I found was in the beginning it would be hard, but after awhile of doing this month after month I never hit writer's block. What I did was I learned to just write and write and write in the fast draft, bad or crappy or whatever. If there was something I wanted to add, but really had no ideas would just put INSERT HERE TALKING ABOUT BLAH BLAH. Then afterwards when I was editing, my mind would be all juiced up, purged of some iffy ideas, and inspiration was always there. I still do that 20 years later. For me its not about waiting for inspiration to strike, but instead building a foundation for inspiration to be there. I have lots of stuff never finished. I found that when I hit writer's block and set it aside, it never got finished. Actually months later I could barely remember what I was going to write next. But, things that I was steadily tapping away at, good or bad .... I'd be in the shower some morning and have a whole chapter come to me.

[@TheSidquimohamed]

Jerry you're a godsend. I don't know what good I did in this life to have youtube suggest your videos to me. Thank you.

[@gnomenorthofthewall]

I usually start my writing session by watching one of your videos. That puts me in to the writing mindset. Then I'll turn on some classical music and write for an hour or so. Then small brake and repeat.

[@esperthebard]

These videos are gold.

[@jonahnolastnameneeded3130]

I know I’m late but, Didn’t expect to see you here

[@historymaps9745]

I'm procrastinating watching your videos. Thanks for putting this online.

[@AmandaVieiraMamaesouCult]

I'm struggling through Nanowrimo and I knew your channel could give me the words I need.

[@thecreativebookwritingpen37]

Extremely helpful thoughts Mr. Jerry Jenkins. Your personalized training is a big motivation for writers and readers like me who've to achieve more in this world of literature.

[@blackeryarns2980]

Your video was a diversion from write, but well worth the 10 minutes I lost - thank you!

[@paigepriddy7715]

Thank you so much for this! Writers block has made me give up so many of my story ideas and now I have a way to get back on track! Thank you so much!

[@jamesobsolete]

3:00 I was taught that fear leads to anger, anger leads to hate, hate leads to suffering

[@stevstring]

Wow. You just dropped a lot of wisdom. You mentioned so many of my vices and struggles. Thanks.

[@Anthony-gq7dk]

If your videos were flight, you'd be the space shuttle. So well worded and delivered and with a perfect speaking voice that encourages and motivates. Well done for inspiring so many.

[@imagine.o.universo]

I think i have all causes... thank very much for such a beautiful video

[@msc281]

Phenomenal points, both in this and the article version. I'm so grateful to have these tips available during the quarantine. Thank you - your words are an addicting read AND listen!

[@ot3396]

God has blessed me by showing me your channel! Thank you very much, Mr. Jenkins

[@MartinGorski]

I think advise is pertinent for all “creatives” I sent this video to my son who is having issues developing his music.

[@reyofsunshine7171]

this has got to be one of the most helpful writing videos I've ever watched ! Thank you so much for the advice I'm putting it in practice .

[@vocalcrunch1308]

sir, your voice and the way of explanation is so soft and gentle it make my brain so relax and too much active towards the task.thank you sir for uploading you Content for free for us.

[@jkshackelford]

Thank you so very much for helping us, "Aspiring Writers". I really appreciate all the videos and words of motivation. Keep 'em coming!!

[@samanthaross4913]

Thank you Mr. Jenkins for these videos! These are perfect for brand new writers like myself! Thank you for helping me become a better writer!

[@soulfulizzie]

I'm inspired to reprioritize my schedule to make writing my key focus early in the morning. Setting daily writing targets help me to keep on track, and carving out a workspace has also ensured that I stay focus. Thank you.

[@mhh2024]

It is an insightful explanation of something that hinders the writer's "productivity".

[@shaysnow320]

Jerry, thank you for this terrific channel! ❤️💪

[@fairystoriesforgrownupchildren]

One of the best (if not "the" best) videos or articles on this subject. Thanks for it.

[@maxxzee8514]

I'm glad I found this at right time, I can't thank him enough, it helped me a lot. Now I'm feeling fully charged to continue my book.

[@suevandokkenburg2849]

I'd intuited a lot of this, but it's nice to hear it in plain language from a true expert. Thank you!

[@philswiftreligioussect9619]

How can this be the best writing channel AND the best ASMR channel of all time, at the same time?

[@jnichols1221]

Thanks Jerry. I'm a rookie trying to do this. I being told to. So who know what may come out. I no my mouth surprises me I'm sure my hand to pen will to. Let go.. I'm ready to learn, what your willing to teach. Ty..

[@Nahidmazidi]

Just watching you in your room and listening to you make me more passionate about writing!!!

[@ladybird491]

One other thing quantity is not what matters, quality is what matters. Who cares that someone wrote hundreds of book, it is the quality. I also do not care for Dean Koontz, accept for the movies made based on "some of his book"because of course some of it was rewritten. I am also not so quick to believe announcements of books sales. No proof of it is ever shown. I don't go by pages in writing, I go back word count, when I go by daily expectation. I don't revise as I write. I also don't rely on a team of other writer I call proof readers, to clean up my work. My editor only works on what I am not responsible to work on, so basically I only write and choose the content.

[@TheCinderellaPrincess]

This jolted me back in my college essay modes. I was watching this to hone my fiction writing hobby, but this just helped me in school

[@aniljohn9338]

I am amazed on that five people who dislike this video. Your all videos are very beneficial for me always very helpful.

[@tracyburton3458]

You talk so much sense. I just love listening to your voice too.

[@Teabone3]

So glad I found this channel. Jerry your advise is fantastic thank you.

[@rsridhar695]

Amazing. I like the most empathetic tone that you are adopting. I will come back again here. It gives me a shot in the arm

[@idesofmars]

i love these teaching videos. i wish you released them more often

[@nicholasdawn9940]

As always, liberating and practical. Thanks for your wholesome guidance, Mr Jenkins.

[@mia_monster2915]

Thank you Mr Jenkins! Your advice just broke me out of a two-month funk. You're a wise man.

[@andrewdilts899]

This blunt truth is the BEST way to go

[@chrisbuxton7790]

These tips definitely help me, as a starting writer, whoes been writing without any schedule,....been hard. Cant wait to draw up a schedule now.

[@joshuamininger7745]

This is amazing! And honestly, it’s amazing that I have never heard this! Seems simple, but why has no one told us this?? Thank you for the advice!

[@keenanweind1780]

Thank you, sir; I shall take this to heart. I have been stuck on a particular scene, for some time now (I am one of the perfectionists, of whom you speak)...

[@adelinem7539]

Amen, Jerry! I find your work so very inspiring. Thank you!

[@ceecee5352]

Thanks for the knowledge.. This spoke to where I am in my process of finishing my 1st novel. Thanks so much!

[@suevandokkenburg2849]

In the same boat here! God bless!