Oh the dreaded phrase that every writer hates to hear as shivers of blank pages dance in one’s head. Some may throw their computers in the air, or bang their heads against the wall when this hit this roadblock. The mere words may be immediately be regarded as something negative but it doesn’t have to signify the end.

Writer’s block can be a meditative state rather than a roadblock. The term does not have to be looked upon as defeat or failure. Far from it, it’s just another step in the process. It’s a station on the track of completion. When thoughts and words to continue your quest to get your protagonist their his or her conclusion are not present, you can try these tools to fuel your writing fire.

Analyze once again where your character is going and what they desire or need. What is it that they truly want? How will they get it? Who is keeping it from them? Is it themselves? If so, what within them is stopping them? Continue to dig deep until you get to this root of the issue.

Watch movies that are in the genre you are writing. What influences can you draw upon to help you get over the hurdle? What elements do you need to move forward in your story? What can you give the character to propel them forward? Watching movies for a writer is process where you are dissecting aspects of the film, seeing why things happen the way they did. Then, it’s the process of applying what you have learned to your work, so that it’s fresh and provides the viewer a look into your world.

Listen to music the help evoke the mood of your work, sometime music during your “time off” from physically writing can provide you with images to assist in getting back to the writing table. Is your script a thriller? A comedy? Reckless adventure? Take some of your favorite soundtracks, pump up the volume, sit and think over your story. Remember, writing is mood, emotion and feeling. How do you want the audience to feel? What’s the mood of your piece? Music can move you is the popular phrase. Experiment with how it can help.

Talk it over with trusted people who are privy to your storyline and have a vested interested in how the story is progressing. Perhaps they can assist in their comments. Oftentimes, as writers, after writing consistently for hours on end can lose sight over what is happening. Allowing an outside party (your audience) view your work objectively can shed some light onto what missing element needs to be inserted into the story flow.

Do a reading. Gathering some friends over and have them assume the roles of your characters. Watching a live rehearsal of your work can also shed some light on what is missing either in character development or dialogue. When it’s in your head, it’s one thing, but when it’s out in the open for all to see, it sometimes can play a little different. This can assist you in dissolving any blocks you may be encountering in your story.

Remember all blocks are temporary and a needed rest is essential to moving forward in full force.