Hey, it’s TJ Miller, you want some game? Let's Tip Unda The Hat!
This week, Writer's Block, Let’s go -
Writer’s block is a writer’s inability to create new creative material or work for a period of time; usually a short period, but in worse case scenarios longer. Now let’s be clear, writer's block and procrastination are not the same thing; they aren’t even related. This is a creative block that varies from writer to writer. The condition can range from not being able to come up with original ideas, to not being able to see a project through to the end. You know the feeling. You go to your work station, pull out the laptop, your instrument, go to the studio and...nothing. Some artists have said they have gone years without the inspiration to overcome that mind block. Again don’t get this confused with procrastination. Some of you just won’t get off your aspirations and get started or finish, so don’t blame a case of the lazies on writer’s block. Psychologically speaking, writer's block, as written in an article in Psychology Today in 2015, says that writer’s block is based in fear. For beginners, fear of not being good enough, for experienced writers not being as good as the last work, and even the work not matching up to the standards of expectations. In addition, writer’s block can be attributed to external anxiety. This is why so many writers go off to remote locations to find peace of mind. For the right brained creative type, life’s worries can be debilitating, especially if they are the only creative in their circle. Analytical people simply don’t get it why one can’t do what they do when the “vibe” or essence of their external peace interferes with their internal peace. Like Erykah Badu say, we are artist and sensitive about our s***! Another mind halting reason could be not enough study and know how. Not knowing what a 4 or 8 bar chorus is, a hook, or how to weave a protagonist through a story can have you put down your pen forever. I’ve always thought it interesting to hear people that don’t read books talk about writing one, or people who don’t listen to the radio, say they want a hit song on the radio. You must study to show yourself approved, and you have to keep up with the latest trends to sell your work.
So the question becomes, how to fix writer’s block? Here are some ideas that might work for you. First, study. Maurice Perry (RIP) of Mr. Blues Records used to say “a person that doesn’t study his craft is a fool.” If you are writing books, read a book! If songs, listen to the type of music that inspires you and acts as your muse. There are too many avenues to free study nowadays such as online webinars, writing courses at libraries, studios and art centers like Jazz Becuzz in Dallas that offer songwriting classes. Also be consistent with your writing. Writing books, songs or ad copy can be a bit different so follow the process. Set a time everyday to write books or plays and let your characters speak to you. For ad copy please study your product. And if you have an idea for a song while out and about, whip out your phone and record the idea, don’t wait. Don’t be scared to write junk and stuff that stinks too. That’s how you get to the good stuff; just write! Lastly, put yourself in the company of creative people that do what you want to do; even if it's just online in a FB group. There’s nothing like being around uber creative people that have the life freedom to be creative, trust me it will rub off. Ok I hope that helps. Now go forth and write!!
This week's Independent Artists of the Week is still Indy artist with Christmas Music all the way through Christmas. Click on the name, scroll down the page to hear, buy and support.
For more information or to hire Unda The Hat as your brand or label consultant send a message via undathehat.com. See you next week.