We’ve all been there. Once you hit a blockage in your brain, it’s so hard to get going again. It was Mental Health Awareness Week in the UK a couple of weeks ago, so I’ve decided to research and also jot down some of my top tips for clearing your mind. Perfect for getting the creative juices flowing again!

More often than not when your mind starts to wander, it’s not because you’re being lazy. It’s because it’s too full of other things. So don’t beat yourself up about it, just find what works for you in order to reboot your brain!

Turn off your emails

As soon as I see an email alert ping onto my screen, even if I don’t open it, I’m thinking about it. Wondering what it says and distracting myself from the job in hand. Give yourself a couple of hours of switching off time. Deal with any important issues beforehand and you’ll feel more confident in taking some time out to think creatively.

Allow your mind to wander

If you can’t beat them, join them! If you’re struggling to focus on what you’re doing then I’d suggest leaving it for half an hour and coming back to it. You can use the time to do a little more research into what you’re writing about it as that could get the creative juices going.

Sometimes the reason people have a blockage is because they’re too ‘in their own heads’. Overthinking can be helpful when it comes to writing, but it can also mean you’re overly critical and not engaging yourself fully.

Stay hydrated and avoid hanger

These may be basic requirements for living, but I’ll bet there are many of us who forget to do them at some point! When you’re in the flow and trying to avoid distractions it can be easy to forget. But taking a couple of minutes out to get a bottle of water or a piece of fruit will have great effects on your work.

There is research to suggest that sugary and foods high in carbohydrates will actually intensify brain fog, so try and avoid foods such as bread, pasta or chocolate.

Venture into the great outdoors

Take a break and get some fresh air! There is nothing better to clear your mind than some physical exercise and if you get outside to blow away the cobwebs – all the better!

Some of our best ideas come when we’re doing everyday tasks, rather than when we’re forcing ourselves to get into the right mindset. Something as simple as taking the dog for a walk or walking to the postbox can help boost your brain power!

Clear desk = clear mind

Something that I’ve struggled with when working from home is constantly worrying about the state of my house. Because we’re always in it, there is no escape and if you haven’t put the breakfast dishes away, it can play on your mind. 

We can’t all be lucky enough to have an office, but keep your workspace as clear as you can and if possible, find a quiet little corner where you can get in the zone.

Just keep writing anything

It’s an odd one, but it might just be the key. When you’re experiencing writer’s block, just try writing anything. You can run yourself round in circles, but it could trigger something in you which will help you finish your project. 

It might just get you back on track. And you can edit out the rubbish later!

Hopefully these tips have helped you to beat the writers block, but if you’re still struggling – give The Copy a call on 01905 887040. Or email howdy@thecopy.uk!