Writers block is one of the worst things to possibly happen to any professional writer. This is particularly so if you are a copywriter where a “bad day” means that you don’t get paid and that whatever copy you do force out is going to fall flat and ruin your professional reputation. No big deal or anything. Are you searching for actual, insightful help and suggestions that are going to help you eliminate writers block (ideally) before it happens? These tips are here to actually help with writers block and also make you a better copywriter while you’re at it!

1. Read, read, read (but make sure it’s active reading): You probably already know that good writers come from a lot of reading. This is definitely still true with it comes to copywriting, but the catch is to read the right way. First of all, make time in your life to read books or content focused on professional writing. Blogs about copywriting or blogs written by copywriters, etc. If you read that kind of content regularly, it’ll energize you to grab that keyboard and get tapping because you can see just how successful other copywriters are around you and it encourages you to keep going.

On that same note, you’ll want to make sure that you’re always actively reading, too. As in, paying attention to word use, vocabulary, rhythm, phrasing, etc. The more that you pay attention, the more that you’ll learn, and the better writer you’ll be.

2. Create a schedule (and stick to it): Ye, you’ve heard that before. But, there’s a reason for it that is way back in your lizard brain. When you have a specific schedule, your body starts to adapt to it and then, eventually, expects and craves it. Be as consistent as possible in when you write (as in, 5 days a week) and also be consistent in the hours that your work. Since we all have certain times of days in which we are most productive, use those hours to write. Set a timer if you need to, and work within that schedule.

When your mind and body are used to sticking with a certain schedule, you’re going to find that writers block doesn’t happen as much within those hours because your mind is used to working hard at writing. It, essentially, strengthening your concentration and writing muscle.

3. Don’t ignore self-care: While it’s not something you might be used to seeing when it comes to a guide on writers block as a copywriter, it’s really important. Copywriting takes a lot of effort because you’re focused on your writing skill and technique as well as the main features you’re supposed to be talking about, and the psychological and emotional aspect of drawing in the reader. That’s a lot of effort for the brain and it will get overworked and exhausted.

Exhaustion is often the leading cause of writers block, really. You’ll want to make sure that you keep self-care a priority. This could be going for a run, making a great meal, meditating, spending some time with adorable puppies and kittens, or anything else that is relaxing and entertaining. Essentially, give your brain a break. This is something that should be done pre-emptively rather than just only when you absolutely have to!

4. Do your research before you type a single word: Most copywriters are on a deadline that is far too short for one reason or another. That means that they simply scan through the research or information give by the customer and then immediately hit the keyboard. However, this will lead you to no shortage of problems. From the wording to the main features, to the energy it takes to get excited about the topic. If you want to make sure that you get your copywriting done quickly, effectively and actually, you know, enjoy ht process, dedicate more time to research.

The more that you know about your project/topic, the easier and faster it’s going to be to write about. Take note as you research and then, when you feel like you’ve got a really good understanding of the product, start writing. The goal should be to feel like you an expert in the subject before you type a word. This can help you stop writers block before it happens as well as get you past the block if you’re stuck in the middle of a paragraph.

5. Try some administrative work, then switch back: If you’re really fried and you just can’t get past this problematic sentence or paragraph or project, it might be time to give your brain a little bit of recharging space. If you’re not in a position to do some self care, or you have too much to do, consider switching to working on something else for a bit. This should be something requires no brain power what-so-ever, but is still productive. Some of the best examples are cleaning your office equipment, filing, shredding old documents and decluttering your computer’s files or disc.

This can help give yourself a break but also make sure that you are staying productive and active in your day. Set a timer for either 30 or 60 minutes and then get back to work to see if it makes any kind of difference. Most will find that it’s enough to get them over the hump and get back it. If not, it’s just further proof that yo urned more self-care (or coffee…).

We’ve said it before, but we’ll say it again: copywriting is hard work and it takes a lot out of even the most efficient and professional writer out there. It’s important to do what you can to take care of yourself as a person as well as a writer and you’ll find yourself in a much better headspace when it comes to working on the project at hand. Since you’ve got a deadline to meet and bills to pay, it’s nice to know that sometimes a solution can really be as easy as implementing these tips and tricks.

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