5 Simple Ways to Activate Your Creative Writing Mind

Writer's block happens to the best of us. So, what do you do when you really can't think of anything? Try one or two (or all) of these tips to kick-start your creative brain.

1.) Free Writing
All those years of grammar and spelling lesson can get in the way of creative writing. Give yourself permission to spew the contents of your creative mind onto paper (or the computer screen) without worrying about sentences or form of any kind. Here's a good explanation of the concept of free writing.

2.) Boost Your Focus 
Keep yourself on task with an application like http://focusboosterapp.com/

3.) Brainstorming is great for gathering all of your ideas about a particular subject into something you can use, as well as helping you come up with new ideas. This can be done on paper or with free mind-mapping software such as Freeplane or Freemind.

4.) Record your thoughts.
Sometimes, the best way to empty your brain is not by writing or typing. Try recording your thoughts onto an audio file, almost as if you were talking to someone over the phone. I use a phone app for my android phone called Rehearsal Assistant. I can record my ideas and email the audio file to myself, so that I can transcribe the information to text later. Audacity is good for recording audio on your computer.

5.) Change The Scenery
Sitting in front of the computer with a clogged-up mind only contributes to writer's block. Take a break from the computer. Go to one of your favorite spots, like your favorite place to read or daydream. Have a conversation with a friend. Keep a recording device or a pen and paper with you. Studies show that there are different centers in the brain that are worked when writing on paper or having a conversation, so take advantage of these creative gold mines.