Almost daily I have heard people refer to “writers block.”
“I cannot write.”
“How do you overcome writer’s block?”
“My granddaughter is asking about my life as a child. I don’t know where to start.”
Writing is easier for me than speaking. I can edit my words on paper. When I have spoken the words, it is too late.
So for those who fear they don’t know how to start, or cannot write a coherent sentence, I have a solution to help you through the writer’s block that at one time or other we all experience: begin with a question. An open ended yet simple question that gives you opportunity to answer. Here are a few examples Since everyone’s life experiences are different, you may find one easier than another.
Describe the experience the last time you enjoyed an ice cream cone or sundae?
What was your favorite childhood toy?
The name of your childhood best friend and your favorite games?
Describe your first car, your first home, your first…..(complete the sentence)
Another way to start is to begin with a meaningful object . . . a photo, program from a performance, piece of jewelry, an object that was given to you by a family member or friend that holds special memories.
I describe my ice cream experience . . . what is yours?
This ice cream experience was not the last time. It is the most memorable. When I used to take my daughter (now an adult) to a nearby park, we would stop for ice cream on the way home. Chocolate was her favorite. She ate slowly and the ice cream melted faster than she could eat it. A giant circle of chocolate ice cream formed around her mouth reaching from her nose to her chin and dribbled down her shirt. I grabbed a handful of napkins and it was never enough. She loved every drop. I loved watching her eat.