Many academics experience moments when their writing stalls, whether it's due to inconsistent habits, unclear ideas, or an overwhelming process. In this post, we'll explore the four main areas of stuckness and practical strategies to overcome them.
1. Habit-Related Stuckness
Do you have a consistent writing routine? A solid habit is the foundation of successful writing. Without a routine, writing becomes sporadic, and momentum is lost. Create a non-negotiable writing time each day, even if it's just for 30 minutes. Consistency is key to moving forward.
2. Process-Related Stuckness
Poor writing processes can lead to frustration. Are you managing your time and priorities well? If writing is continually interrupted by other tasks, it’s time to set clear boundaries and structure your day. Develop a system that protects your writing time and allows you to work efficiently.
3. Ideation Stuckness
If you’re stuck on the idea, the problem may be in the planning phase. Writing before properly developing your ideas can lead to confusion and stagnation. Take time to clarify what you want to say and how you want to say it. Once your ideas are clear, the writing will flow more smoothly.
4. Craft Stuckness
Obsessing over perfecting individual paragraphs before completing the draft is a sign of craft stuckness. Instead, focus on writing the full draft first, then return to revise and edit. This ensures you keep progressing rather than getting stuck in perfectionism.
Overcoming Stuckness: Action Steps
Create a Daily Routine: Set aside dedicated time to write each day, even if it's only for 30 minutes.
Streamline Your Processes: Set boundaries and focus on writing, not distractions.
Clarify Your Ideas: Spend time developing your thoughts before drafting.
Draft First, Edit Later: Focus on writing the full piece before revising.
Conclusion
Stuckness is a natural part of the writing process, but it can be overcome with small, focused adjustments. By building a consistent writing habit, managing your processes, refining your ideas, and embracing the drafting process, you can break free from stuckness and keep progressing with your work.
If you want to get help getting unstuck, take this very short training here.