We’ve all heard the phrase, “How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time.” It’s a simple yet profound truth, and it became my mantra when I found myself paralyzed by writer’s block while working on my first book.
I had a looming deadline from my publisher, and every time I sat down to write, a wave of self-doubt would wash over me.
“I have to write a book.”
“Who am I to write a book?”
“What do I even have to say for 300 pages?”
Each of these thoughts froze me in place, making the task seem insurmountable. My mind was filled with pressure and expectations, and as a result, I found myself doing anything but writing. My kitchen was sparkling clean during those months—anything to avoid facing the blank page!
I actually missed my deadline! The publisher gave me a nine-month extension, and my first thought was: I have spent half the advance. Now I really have to finish this book! But then, something shifted.
Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway
I realized that beyond the writer’s block, underneath the procrastination, was fear. Fear of not being good enough. Fear of putting myself out there. Fear of being seen. But as I’ve learned in so many areas of life, the only way past fear is through it.
Then came the breakthrough: Instead of writing a book, I thought, “What if I approach each chapter like a term paper? I’ve written plenty of those. That I can do.”
And that’s exactly how I finished the book. In hindsight, that extra time was a gift. It allowed me to go deeper, refine the message, and create something truly transformational. More importantly, it allowed me to move through my fears about being in the public eye—fears I hadn’t fully acknowledged before.
10 Steps to Unlock Creativity and Overcome Writer’s Block
Struggling with writer’s block on your book, article, or journal? These are the strategies that moved me from stuck to writing. And they work for any project.
- Shift Your Perspective
Instead of thinking, “I have to write a book,” reframe it into something manageable:
“I’m just writing a chapter.”
“I’m just writing a paragraph.”
The brain processes small tasks more easily than daunting, overwhelming goals.
- Set Realistic Goals
Tell yourself, “I will write 500 words today” or “I will write for 30 minutes.” These small wins create momentum, and before you know it, you’ll have pages filled with words.
- Silence the Inner Critic
The voice that says, “Who am I to write this?” is just fear in disguise. Acknowledge it, but don’t let it take the wheel. Instead, remind yourself why you started writing in the first place—someone out there needs to hear what only you can say. And no one can say it in the way you can.
- Just Write
Perfectionism kills creativity. Give yourself permission to write poorly in the first draft. The magic happens in the editing process. As Hemingway said, “The first draft of anything is garbage.” But you can’t edit a blank page. And remember, perfection doesn’t exist.
- Break It Down
If writing an entire chapter feels overwhelming, break it down further. Write a bullet-point outline of the key ideas. Then, expand on each point, step by step.
- Establish a Writing Routine
Find a time of day when your mind is sharpest, and make it a habit to write during that window. Even 20–30 minutes of focused writing every day adds up quickly.
- Change Your Environment
Sometimes, a simple change of scenery—writing at a coffee shop, in a park, or in a different room—can shake things up and spark creativity.
- Read for Inspiration
When words refuse to flow, reading the work of others can be a powerful motivator. It reminds you why you’re passionate about writing and can reignite your creative spark.
- Get Support
Talk to other writers. Join a writing group. Sometimes, discussing your struggles and hearing how others navigate their own roadblocks can provide new perspectives and motivation. For me, it was crucial to work through the deeper fears. A coach can be helpful in that process, and breathwork—something I’ve practiced and taught for years—can be a powerful tool for clearing them.
- Trust the Process
Writing isn’t always easy, but trust that if you keep showing up, the words will come. Even when progress feels slow, every word you write is a step closer to your finished piece.
Final Thoughts
Writer’s block is often just fear disguised as procrastination. The key is to trick your brain into taking action by making the task smaller and more digestible.
One chapter at a time.
One paragraph at a time.
One word at a time.
And before you know it, you’ll have a finished book in your hands.
So, if you find yourself stuck, just remember: You don’t have to eat the whole elephant at once. Just take the next bite.
If fear or resistance keeps showing up, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to navigate it alone either. Coaching can provide the kind of steady encouragement and accountability that makes all the difference, especially when the dream feels too big or the doubts feel too loud.
If you’re ready to move through the blocks and finally bring your project to life, our coaching programs are here to support your next brave step!