Beth's Picks of the Week

As you know, I’m deep into this mindset subject. It’s fascinating stuff. Unbelievable.

After studying the human mind for all these years (I hold a degree in Communications, Psychology and Sociology) I really feel like I’m coming home as I write about this subject.

I’m sending you this personal note to let you know that Filbert Publishing is about to launch a line of meditation CDs especially for writers. And every single member of the Creative Mindset Newsletter, is going to receive every single one of ‘em absolutely free.

So, if you're a member of the Creative Mindset Newsletter, you'll receive your own meditation CD enclosed in your October issue.

I’m so thrilled for every single freelancer joining me on this journey and this is just one way I can thank you for your continued support.

Oh, and I’ve got more surprises up my sleeve for this unique group of writers, too. I just can’t breathe a word about ‘em yet.

So subscribe today so you won't miss the October issue! It’ll be a doozie. :)

Click here: http://filbertpublishing.com/creative.html

The September Issue of The Creative Mindset Print Newsletter

I'm seated in the back yard, cool breeze biting my calves. I refuse to give up my shorts on what should presumably be a warm August day.

Rudie and Jake growl at the neighbor dogs while I ponder dreams.

No. Not the dreams you experience when you sleep. I'm talking waking dreams. Aspirations. Goals. The stuff that's so big you barely dare breathe a word of it to anyone.

These are the dreams that power your writing every day... the hope that just won't die.

It's the tiny flame of inspiration that continually flickers no matter how much you neglect it. It's the flame that ignites when you finally step on the road that'll take you one step closer to your dream.

It's the raging fire when you're in the “zone.” It's the burning desire that is suddenly satiated when you finally take meaningful steps to write that which you know you were born to write.

Yup. That's the dream I'm talking about.

What's your dream?

What seemingly silly aspiration gets you into your writing chair every single day.

Perhaps you don't get to write every day. What's holding you back?

Hmmmm... I think we need to ponder this for a bit....

Click here: http://filbertpublishing.com/creative.html

Techniques to Banish Writing Blocks

Beth Ann Erickson

No matter how long you've been writing, you'll eventually hit the wall. Words won't flow. Head's completely empty. Vacantly staring at the computer, fear rises into your throat.

What if I never write again? Where did the ideas go? How am I going to get a paycheck when my idea well is dryer than the Sahara?

I've written pretty much nonstop since 1995. Since then I can honestly say that I've rarely experienced a true writing block for more than a day.

My big secret to banishing writing blocks? No big secrets. Just a few techniques to keep words flowing. And they're actually surprisingly simple when you think about it. Here they are:

First, if you feel as though the words aren't flowing as effortlessly as they should, reassess your priorities. Is your subconscious mind fighting this project? Perhaps you're working on something that isn't complementary to or will advance you towards your ultimate goal... your dream.

If you've taken on a project for the sole purpose of making some fast money, you just may find yourself facing a writing block and earning every single cent, one at a time.

A project that enhances your ultimate goal... your dream... will often become a joy to write. You'll fly to your computer, excited to pour words onto the page.

If this isn't the case, you need to reassess whether you're working a project that's near and dear to your heart.

Second, if you're experiencing a writing block, change locations.

One of the greatest gifts to writers is the laptop computer. Instead of being chained to an immovable desk, now you can write anywhere you choose.

If I'm feeling restless, if words flow slow, I grab Pee-wee (my little laptop) and head outside. My new favorite place to write is sitting in my pink lawn chair, cola at hand, computer on my lap, birds swirling overhead, crickets chirping... well, you get the picture.

It's nearly impossible not to jumpcharge the creative juices with Mother Earth buzzing your bare feet and tickling every single sense.

That being said, I also write sitting smack dab in front of the television. Yup. The old boob tube.

Strangely, I get SOOO much writing done during commercial breaks. I don't understand it. I don't dissect the experience, either. I just go with the flow, enjoy, and rat a tat tat the computer keyboard.

Next, if you sense a writing block forming, grab a book and read.

Sometimes words flow tough because your cup is empty. We pour words from our fingertips at a (sometimes) alarming rate.

It's no wonder that as your cup empties, you need to fill it. And writers fill their “cup of words” by reading.

I have one of the largest private libraries of anyone I know. I mention this not to brag, but to explain how I continue to write all these years while avoiding countless writing blocks.

Once you build a library, you also need to read these little gems. I know far too many writers who build a library, but keep themselves busy with nonsense (such as writing forums, chatting, whining) while their library languishes.

Please don't become this type of writer. If you purchase a book, read it. Allow it to fill you. Then write.

You can also continue your education. It's tough to run out of writing angles while you're filling your mind with new ideas.

I'm continually taking online classes, in fact, I'm currently taking a long-term class to sharpen my metaphysical skills. I find it immensely interesting, constantly stretching my beliefs, filling my mind, and opening new writing avenues. I read textbooks every spare minute and the excitement I feel while studying pours into my current writing project.

Next technique: a writing block can pop up while you're fussing about finances. Yeah, the writing life can sometimes challenge the pocketbook.

The solution? Don't rely on just one form of writing as your income source. I write books. Teach writing classes. Filbert Publishing sometimes publish other writer's books. I write articles, ghostwrite, and squeeze in copywriting clients in between other projects. Websites need attention, e-mags, e-courses, and (of course) the Creative Mindset requires constant tending as well.

These are just a few of the projects I work on each week and every single one of them produces a source of income.

Best of all, if I'm bored with one project, I always have another to edit, tweak, write, ding with.

It's a fascinating life. If you experience frequent writing blocks, try expanding your world to open new income avenues and allow a constant (and predictable) wage.

Finally, if you're facing an insurmountable writing block, consider that just perhaps, your subconscious mind requires a day off.

Every writer needs rest. And sometimes, especially if your life is particularly harried, you simply need to stop and “be” for a while.

Great writing doesn't flow from an exhausted, frustrated heart.

If you need rest, simply rest. Pet your dog. Drink a cappuccino. Allow your mind time to rejuvenate and heal. Allow curiosity to bud.

Writing isn't so much a sprint as it is a marathon. Keep your mind in the right place, and the body will follow.

'Til next time,

Beth
P.S. I hope you've enjoyed this article.  As you can see, a strong mindset preceeds pretty much all your success. If you're interested in harnessing the power of your mindset, you owe it to yourself to check out the Creative Mindset Journal. Each month, a new issue will arrive in your mailbox whispering constant encouragement, providing solid tools to strengthen your mindset, and giving you insight to market your writing in the most effective way possible. This newsletter truly provides insider information you won't find anywhere else. Subscribe here: http://filbertpublishing.com/creative.html

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I Recommend:

Writing For Dollars! The FREE ezine for writers featuring tips, tricks and ideas for selling what you write. Receive the FREE ebook, 83 WAYS TO MAKE MONEY WRITING when you subscribe. Email to subscribe@writingfordollars.com -*-

http://www.WritingForDollars.com

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here: http://www.worldwidefreelance.com

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