What do you do during days of mental block?

mdayrit Level 1

July 5, 2018, 7:00 am

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I guess it is not only me who had experienced those days where your mind doesn't seemed to find words to complete even a short article. Not because you do not like the topic or doesn't know it but because your mind seemed to be wandering somewhere. What do you do to help yourself during this kind of days?

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treecko142

treecko142

I just take a break, relax, watch Netflix, sleep, or just eat comfort food. No use pushing myself when I can't think of anything and having a nice break just relaxes my mind and allows me to think better when I go back to the job.

8 years ago

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fishbate

fishbate

Yup, relaxing is probably the best and the fasting thing to do during mental blocks. Allowing to clear your mind will definitely help ease tension. Just like a computer, you just need a quick restart.

8 years ago

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treecko142

treecko142

Good point, even machines which are built for their sole purpose need to rest, so we should also allow ourselves to take the time for ourselves and relax for a bit.

8 years ago

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RhealaineS

RhealaineS

Definitely! As a human being, we should take a break to freshen up our minds so that we will be able to produce better outputs. Some times, we tend to be stressed with a lot of things that's happening to us. That hinders us from producing best outputs. So if needed, rest and take a break.

8 years ago

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Steve5

Steve5

I like how you said that. We all need to restart every once in a while. Computers get too overloaded if they don't do that. Same with humans. Like whenever we go to sleep. It's like we're rebooted. Hahaha!

8 years ago

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aeon

aeon

Watching movies will help a lot to get relax and aside from that, you will get some ideas you need on your writings. Sometimes you will find the ideas from watching movies.

8 years ago

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treecko142

treecko142

Definitely, I also sometimes read books for this matter, just to give me inspiration on what I can write. Even surfing the net can be productive, as well.

8 years ago

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Steve5

Steve5

Books just have the inspiration you need at times. They can be vast or simple. I like that you can also read stories online. Though, I prefer eBooks for that. It relieves mental block.

8 years ago

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Youngshark

Youngshark

Ebooks and audio books are just the kinds of saviors that any writer wishes they existed like 10 years ago. I for one can spend a very long time listening to my favorite books and podcasts.

8 years ago

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zgecolea1797

zgecolea1797

It is effective to me as well. Reading books make my mind clear. It makes me feel refreshed and reset like a phone.

8 years ago

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Steve5

Steve5

Oh, I like that. I do this too. Movies are great for relieving stress. I watch Comedy films to laugh and have fun. I even get inspiration from their witty dialogue.

8 years ago

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Steve5

Steve5

I agree. This is effective since you're giving your mind enough time to relax. Stressing ourselves only impairs our work performance. Best to chill every once in a while.

8 years ago

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lei08pineda

lei08pineda

Same here. Taking a break and do some activities to relax your body and mind will help. It helps when I watch korean dramas and listening to some music. Talking with other people also helps me. I chat with my friends and have a good talk. Sometimes my husband and even my son gave me some ideas.

8 years ago

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mark8625

mark8625

Yeah thats the best thing to do. We a person normally experienced that. By avoiding it,keep focus on things. Do no think many useless thing that will make you off.

8 years ago

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NerdIndeed

NerdIndeed

This. You are spot on by saying there is no use pushing yourself when you can't think of anything. But if it's utterly imperative to work like let's say I have a deadline to meet, what I tend to do is eat lots of chocolates, or drink tons of coffee. Somehow, it helps.

8 years ago

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Kakashi2020

Kakashi2020

Sleeping, resting, cooking and eating are on top of my to do list when I'm suffering writer's block.

8 years ago

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romyter013

romyter013

Right I do the same thing too. Comfort foods helps me a lot to get back on focus and to recharge again my mind. Sometimes I do call for delivery just to enjoy my break. I usually call for big fries, burgers or pizzas. Sometimes I go to convenient store to get ice cream, chips or pack of cashews or peanuts that I can eat while finishing my article.

8 years ago

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Kakashi2020

Kakashi2020

I do agree, I've been doing that also and it works most of the time. I think watching Netflix helps relaxes my mind. Because whenever I'm watching movies or series my mind stops thinking and it just go with the flow of the story giving me a sense of enjoyment. After which, I could write again.

8 years ago

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ChristineOh

ChristineOh

I frequently experience that kind of feeling. My mind is getting out of focus and I can't start any work and even to understand anything that I'm trying to read. There is some instances that it's getting worst especially when there's an examination that I am going to take. Until now I have this feeling of anxiety every time that I'd feel pressured. The things that I find relevant to relieve this feeling is to stop from doing anything and relax. Sometimes making arts like drawing, photography and even listening to music for a moment helps me to relieve it. Talking to someone can help too, it can set up your mind when you're communicating with other to be in a good mode and it can help you to relax.

8 years ago

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stbrians

stbrians

Listening to music actually soothes the mind and the nerves. This fact is when you fully get lost in the music. I agree with photography too.

8 years ago

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ballyhara

ballyhara

More often than you think! Honestly, some times I'm about to think my mind is telling me to go on vacations, or that I need to chill out for a while. On the other side, I feel frustrated, because I want or need to write something important, and my mind is on strike, so I can feel the pressure and stress. But, the worst I can do is to push myself, so my personal advice, take at least 20-30 minutes to do something completely different, put some music and dance, go for a short walking, or do some yoga. If your mind is asking for a break, give some time off, you will overcome it with some rest.

8 years ago

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amelia88

amelia88

Yoga is super helpful! I find that not only is it a good way to refresh and rid myself of that mental block, but also helps in times where I'm stressed or anxious about things, whether that be work deadlines or even things away from work in my personal life!

8 years ago

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ballyhara

ballyhara

I know right! Yoga has been the best therapy for me, it helps me breath properly, in a calm way, and it also makes me feel more focused. Whenever I feel this mental block, or when I have too much to handle on my mind, I just take some minutes and do my Yoga breathing to feel relieved. Honestly, excellent for everybody.

8 years ago

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aeon

aeon

I feel the same things, when my mind asking for a vacation to enjoy, because it looks like suffocated from work and looking for some rest. You will notice this things when this mental block keep coming back.

8 years ago

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ballyhara

ballyhara

Sometimes I just don't feel like a mental block, but like a mental fatigue, like when your mind is lazy. So, is like I really need to write about a subject, but my mind play tricks on me, doesn't want to think about anything, and keeps telling me to avoid thinking. That makes me feel pressured and stressed, and it all turns into a vicious circle, and the only way to stop it, is by doing a time out and reset my mind.

8 years ago

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aeon

aeon

Yeah, it's not mental block anymore and I think you really need the vacation. Your mind might not be happy anymore and think that it's already obligation and not for fun anymore.

8 years ago

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fishbate

fishbate

Mental block is a sign of fatigue and stress and we are all susceptible to have one from time to time. In the event of mental block i just normally do a breathing exercise and just try to relax for a minute. It works for me, but it's wise to have a healthy living and right amount of sleep. Prevention is always the best thing to do.

8 years ago

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Barida

Barida

Getting a good sleep always is also a nice way that we can fight writer's block. The reason is that I have come to notice that each time that I wake up in the morning, my mind is always pretty active and strong to make new contents unlike how I feel when I am stressed out for the day.

8 years ago

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fishbate

fishbate

Same here, after a good night sleep and enough rest your energy is the highest upon waking. You can see the difference in productivity and speed in writing.

8 years ago

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Barida

Barida

That was what I was saying as sleeping is a good way to relax the nerves. Some of the people that I know makes use of it and it has been working wonders for them as well which is really nice. Good sleep helps always.

8 years ago

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Steve5

Steve5

I couldn't agree more. Sleep gives life to our creativity. Aside from rest, we can sometimes have inspirational dreams. Stuff we wouldn't easily come up with while awake.

8 years ago

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bienn05

bienn05

Yes, I think having a right amount of sleep will at least reduce the chance of you to be stress. Sleeping late is just not good for our body. Personally, I used to always sleep late but I realized that I tend to be more stress and hot-headed when I lack of sleep. We just need to be on the healthy side no matter what. Health is wealth.

8 years ago

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bienn05

bienn05

I totally agree with you. Stress is the source of having mental blocks. The lack of sleep is also a reason you are having mental blocks. Always think of your body. Don't abused it like me. I usually stay late for work and now my brain is a bit rusty. Avoid sleeping late, guys!

8 years ago

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Barida

Barida

I enjoy gaming and that is something that I always do whenever I can't be able to write again. I have come to understand that it is better for one to take a break when there is writer's block instead of having to continue which there is no ideas anymore to write again. This is one thing that I do when I feel a bit tired of writing.

8 years ago

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EfficientNinja

EfficientNinja

I also play video games when I have days where I can't think of anything to write. Although I also play games after work hours because it helps me relax and it's also what motivates me to work the next day. Playing video games with colleagues is also a habit of my group and we do it almost daily.

8 years ago

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Barida

Barida

As a gamer, I have lots of games on my mobile phone which is a nice way to relax and enjoy some good moments before you continue writing again. I've got some friends that I can also play the game on the internet and it isa nice way to relax the mind.

8 years ago

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EfficientNinja

EfficientNinja

Agreed. It doesn't just relax the mind, video games stimulate the brain because we think of strategies to beat a hard level or enemies. It also serves as a team-building exercise with friends because we have to think of ways on how to outwit the enemy team and execute the plan.

8 years ago

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aeon

aeon

That's right, playing games will help your mind to become active again, but the problem is it's hard to notice the time while playing video games and forgot the things you need to do. LOL.

8 years ago

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treecko142

treecko142

I love playing video games but sometimes it doesn't help me when I can't think of anything because I tend to just play video games all day and forget about the work I'm supposed to do.

8 years ago

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Kakashi2020

Kakashi2020

When that happens, I have 2 choices, first is to rest and take a long nap, second is to go out with friends and drink some booze. Both activities relaxes my mind and usually after a day or two I'm back to my writing.

8 years ago

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Barida

Barida

I enjoy sleeping and that is one reason that I am going to pick it as the choice when I am struggling to write. I have come to realize that sleeping is one sure way that the muscles can get relaxed and new motivation setting in which is good for our mental energy to write.

8 years ago

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amelia88

amelia88

This has been happening to me a lot, lately - sometimes I find that if I've been doing too much writing or trying to overextend myself that my brain just says "no more!"

Usually, getting out and getting some fresh air helps reset me. The weather has been really nice at this time of the year where I live, so getting out for a quick walk, even if it's just around the block, helps to refresh my mindset.

8 years ago

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fishbate

fishbate

Yup there's nothing better than fresh air and good scenery to help you relax and unwind. Walking also helps in keeping your blood flowing and allowing energy to be distributed evenly.

8 years ago

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MomoStarr16

MomoStarr16

This sounds very medically way to prevent and stop the idleness of our mind. Haha. But it was a good idea. Some one may use this as an effective one.

8 years ago

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Corzhens

Corzhens

When you reach that point where you cannot write sensibly, that is obviously mental fatigue or more commonly known as writer's block. My usual recourse is to forget what I am writing and do some other activities. Going out is one way to relax the mind and enjoy other things in life. It's good if you have the budget, why not go on a swimming trip? When you come back to your writing, the creative juices will be oozing as if you are excited to write.

8 years ago

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Barida

Barida

Going out to have some fun is also a nice way to keep things under check as I have come to notice that it is wrong for any good writer to continue writing once they realize that they are not making good sense. I have turned down urgent works by clients when I discovered that I feel weak to write.

8 years ago

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Kakashi2020

Kakashi2020

I would have to agree with you on that mental fatigue causes writers block and one should stop writing and do some other activities another good thing to do is to travel to rest your mind by looking at new sceneries, this works for me. If your mind sees new things to process then the fatigue you're feeling would disappear.

8 years ago

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RhealaineS

RhealaineS

Whenever I experience mental block, I just simply take a rest. I believe that forcing myself will just make things worse. That's why in times of mental block, I take a break from what I am doing and pamper myself. From what I've read. Taking a shower is a simple yet effective way to overcome mental block.

8 years ago

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aeon

aeon

That's right, the more you push your self, the more you running out of idea. Our mind should take a rest sometimes. Your right, taking a shower is effective to get relax.

8 years ago

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mark8625

mark8625

That is right. Take some sleep or eat well so that energy and focus would bring back.

8 years ago

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EfficientNinja

EfficientNinja

I also don't write anything when I experience writer's block or mental block. I just relax and watch the movies or tv shows that I am following and need to catch up on. I want to make my mind busy and not think about writing. I also read books about things that I am curious about and it helps build up my vocabulary while learning new things and it is also a productive way to pass time.

8 years ago

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aeon

aeon

Just take a walk, look around, enjoy the weather while walking, or play your favorite music while having a coffee and cigarette, this things helps me to get relax and get back to the line again. We should not push our mind to think something.

8 years ago

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jennyfermanuel

jennyfermanuel

I just let it. I let myself mentally blocked. Because if I were to force myself to think deeply and critically though I know I can't in that certain day, I'll end up having a headache. We have to relax our minds, we need peace of minds. I believe our brain gets tired as well. Watch a movie with your family, have a snack, rest.
Eventually you will feel the enthusiam to write again What do you do during days of mental block?

What do you do during days of mental block?

8 years ago

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MomoStarr16

MomoStarr16

It is easy. Go back to the time where you can remember the first time you write that subject. Keep on reminiscing to bring back the memories and to start again writing the words from that subject.

8 years ago

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Kakashi2020

Kakashi2020

Sometimes when I'm finishing an article I suddenly freeze and I can't think of anything to write, in such cases, I stand up and leave the house and go to my fave Pizza place and eat, this clears my mind and when I return home, I would have no problem finishing my article.

8 years ago

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Martinsx1

Martinsx1

Haha, I have seen some people who uses eating as a means of relaxing and feel better from work stress. It's funny how that sounds but it's actually a thing for some. One that I know very well and actually have a friend who uses that strategy of eating when they are angry. Anger management issues with eating food therapy.

8 years ago

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amelia88

amelia88

Pizza is the answer to many of life's problems! Good choice!

8 years ago

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Martinsx1

Martinsx1

What I can vehemently tell you is that the human brain is not like that of a robot. When stressed too much, I needs to take a break and get back to full functionality. I believe that you are well aware of the law of diminishing returns in human beings. When the body, mind and brain is under too much duress, it needs to take a break and get back normal once more.

8 years ago

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Kakashi2020

Kakashi2020

I couldn't agree more, the brain really needs some rest and sleeping is not what I'm talking about. Our mind needs something else to think off or some other thoughts to process. If it thinks or does the same thing over and over, it would tire and just stop working. So it's best to do something else and let it rest from its regular duties or functions.

8 years ago

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Martinsx1

Martinsx1

Sleeping is one good way to calm the entire body system but a grown up man can't be sleeping just about anytime he wants, in as much as it's a good thing to sleep but doing it at night seems most appropriate. Some people do take afternoon sleep sessions but it's not for people like me. Just something like relaxing and putting one's mind at ease when over worked is the best way to relax the mind.

8 years ago

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clairmatin

clairmatin

Whenever I feel like this I just take a break, because if I keep trying it'll be worse. Sometimes I lose the ability to express the simplest things and it frustrates me. So I just forget about work for a day or two, sleep a lot and try to have fun. I only go back to writing when I feel that I'm ready. Writing can be very tiring and your brain loses the ability to connect words, I sometimes can't even find the ideas, let alone express them!

8 years ago

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Martinsx1

Martinsx1

Exactly. When it gets so bad that one is having difficulty remembering words to use and express one's point, then it's high time the individual stopped trying to work at the moment and take a time off because it's the only way to guarantee doing a better job. A forced work is a wasted work with a wasted time and efforts.

8 years ago

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mdayrit

mdayrit

I agree that rest can restart your brain for it to function properly. I would usually go to sleep whenever I have this mental block. The problem is when you have a rush work and would really need to write at that moment. I guess the lesson there is not to overwork your self. Give your brain a time to relax and breathe before you take on another assignment. Assess if you can accept a rush job and do not push your self over to the limit.

8 years ago

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aeon

aeon

And the problem about this mental block, if you push your self to write in this situation, I'm sure when you read your article there's a lot of mistakes and need to re write again.

8 years ago

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Martinsx1

Martinsx1

Exactly. It's just like forcing yourself to eat when you are already filled up to be brim of your belly. It would be just making a mess of the whole food. It's just like the same thing when you are trying to force yourself to work when the brain needs a recess. You will definitely make a mess of the whole write up and laugh at yourself when you read back what you tried writing during your mental block session.

8 years ago

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aeon

aeon

That's right. The only reason why you want to continue the writings even the mental block is there, because you're running out of time and you need to submit it. But actually, there's no difference if you will just take a break and walk for a while or just continue your writings, because at the end, with that mistakes by pushing your self, you will just re write it again, and will realize that much better to take a break than to push our self.

8 years ago

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bienn05

bienn05

I sleep when I experienced mental blocks. My body just needs some relaxation if I am feeling any kinds of pressure. Sleeping is my way to relax so I do sleep when I feel some pressure in my head.

8 years ago

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fishbate

fishbate

I agree, sleeping rejuvenates your mind, it's like a phone that needs some recharging. Also, sleeping is both beneficial to the mind and body so its ideal and a necessity.

8 years ago

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Martinsx1

Martinsx1

If I'm the type that sleeps easily when I lay down, then it's definitely a good option for me in times of mentsl block. But I have this odd problem of finding it hard to sleep easily or quickly at night and almost impossible to sleep during the day. So as a result of having this problem, using sleeping as a means to work out my way off mental block situation is not going to be possible.

8 years ago

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aeon

aeon

This one is looks easy, but it's really hard for me to do. If I want to sleep and started to lay on bed, my mind will surely do a lot of things just to keep me awake and become much more irritated.

8 years ago

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DenisP

DenisP

If it is a feasible option, I usually just try to take a break away from the work that I was doing. I've found that forcing work usually results in mediocre content, and I then feel generally dissatisfied with it. As a result, I try to just take a break away from it and wait until I find some sort of inspiration. It can happen within hours, or it can take a day or two.

Usually though, if I just put it down and go do some sort of different activity (but one that still let's me brainstorm, like taking a walk) I typically find some sort of inspiration within hours.

8 years ago

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Steve5

Steve5

I mostly just do nothing. I mean, I do stuff from time to time. But the best way to get rid of mental block is to free yourself. We're often too caught up with life and everyday tasks to give ourselves the break we deserve.

8 years ago

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fishbate

fishbate

Well you right, just doing nothing just clears your mind and calms your body. Life nowadays are to busy that even a little bit of rest is hard to have.

8 years ago

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Steve5

Steve5

You're right as well. We can't keep ourselves like this for too long. We should give our minds the break it deserves. There's this research that suggests overwork only deteriorates our performance. Good rest improves our quality of work.

8 years ago

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DenisP

DenisP

"I mostly just do nothing."

You know, a lot of people might look at this simple statement and think to themselves, "Nothing? How is nothing supposed to help?" But the truth is that doing nothing is probably one of the best things you can do when you experience mental blockage. Mental blockage is an immovable force, while our efforts to get things done are stoppable. The best way to get new ideas is to just stop trying and let your thoughts roam free. Let go of all your efforts, and it's in this state of free fall where you're going to get the most original ideas.

8 years ago

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Steve5

Steve5

That's nice of you to share. I totally agree. I've also tried to force myself to come up with ideas. It only made me more anxious.

But the moment I stopped trying and relaxed. Like a day of complete rest. Ideas came to me while staring at a blank wall. How cool is that?

8 years ago

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aeon

aeon

Well, doing nothing sometimes make me think, what are you doing? You wasting the minutes of your time, try to think some useful things or enjoy your life outside your room. What do you do during days of mental block?

What do you do during days of mental block?

8 years ago

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DenisP

DenisP

The thing is that we think this way because society has ingrained this idea into our minds that we constantly have to be productive. The idea of just doing nothing is almost taboo in today's culture, and I think that is a big cause of why people are so creatively exhausted.

In my opinion, doing nothing can be as important as actually doing something. It doesn't mean being a lazy bum and never doing anything, but we need to realize that our minds sometimes need a break from everything. No work, no entertainment, just nothing.

It can be really liberating and refreshing.

8 years ago

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aeon

aeon

Yeah, that's why during that time, when I want to do something and my mind don't want to cooperate, but when I just lay on my bed this mind keep thinking about the things that I should do, this is the best time for me to meditate, and keep my mind to be relax and calm.

8 years ago

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jaymish3

jaymish3

This is very common especially when you write very often or even everyday. I call this a break down.The best thing that works for me is getting out of the house or my immediate surroundings and having a bit of fun. The best thing is to take a walk, go to the park, read a book, watch a movie, have a night out. Anything you do for fun, it will work. I also find that listening to songs you like gets ideas running in your head. Music is a great motivator.

8 years ago

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aeon

aeon

That's right. Just take a walk and look around and enjoy the weather. Sometimes the idea that we are looking for is just around us, we just didn't notice them because we are so serious on our work or writings.

8 years ago

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edencaga

edencaga

I feel the same way as you especially if I am so stressed with everything happen in my life. It's really hard to think if you are on that stage were in your mind is completely block and cannot think clearly with things. I suggest making your self relax and stress free will make yourself go back to the same track.

8 years ago

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mitan143

mitan143

I'm not really a writer but I like writing and sometimes I write long or even series of different articles or stories. What I usually do when mental block hits me is I rest my mind for a while. I let my self relax and I make sure that I relief my self from stress or from too much thinking. When you write and there are no ideas coming out from your mind and you feel like you are a bit lost from what you are writing for, then don't push or force your self to finish it right away because it will only result for unwanted outcome. Just take a break for a while. But I don't know if it is still fine when there is a deadline because I haven't done writing which has given a deadline.

8 years ago

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edzalferos

edzalferos

When I have the "mental block attack", I put everything off and won't stress myself of what to write next. If my mind is set on something else, then I'll just be frustrated for not being able to come up with something. I have to address this side-issue in my mind and set a time for a little meditation. Here is where my "pause and pray" principle come into place. This really works for me. When I know I can already manage my thinking and had put my trust in God with this anxiety pulling me off from work, that way I can resume.

8 years ago

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Kakashi2020

Kakashi2020

Sometimes when I get stressed out, I choose to sleep for one whole day and whenever I wakeup the next day, I would be fully recharge and operational.

8 years ago

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aeon

aeon

This one or the mental block mostly happens if we don't like our topic, and our mind thinks that we are obligated to write even we don't like it and we just doing this writings because we need it. That's why if our topic is based on our own experience, we are excited to write because we want to share our own experience to readers and our mind cooperate with us.

8 years ago

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fishbate

fishbate

Mental block is a form of fatigue and stress, different people different manifestation. When i have mental block, it usually comes with migraine and a little bit of focusing problem. It really is a sign, that your mind is getting hurt and asking for some rest. The best way to deal with mental block is to prevent it. Rest before it happens.

8 years ago

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mitan143

mitan143

I see. Honestly, I've just read this kind of information as of this moment. It is a good thing that you somehow shared it. Well, I guess it makes sense because if you are already experiencing a mental block, it is really hard to go back to your sense afterwards and it is not healthy for our brain, I guess.

8 years ago

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zgecolea1797

zgecolea1797

I just relax or take a walk when I have a mental block. If I have the time, I will sleep to recharge my mind from thinking problems. I don't want to feel pressure so I always make sure to sleep early.

8 years ago

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Kakashi2020

Kakashi2020

Sometimes when I can't find the correct words or when there's a lack of ideas, I would watch movies. Normally after watching 2-3 movies, ideas would come again and i'll be able to finish what I'm writing.

8 years ago

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Jerlene

Jerlene

Taking a walk outside by yourself or doing anything outside is a great way to unlock your mind. Nature is the best free therapy session you can get.

8 years ago

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oksoda

oksoda

I tend to be a very restless person, so there's a lot I do when I'm feeling stuck and blocked.
I go for a walk, I take a nice bath, and I drink a whole bunch of water while I've got coffee on the pot. By starting there I'm working with these relatively short activities that are both relaxing and stimulating. They give me time to think without the pressure of an open, empty text box in front of me.
I do use forums like wordclerks for inspiration - sometimes you're just too close to a project or wrapped up in your expectations of what it could be and to hear other voices with different perspectives working on similar goals is really helpful! Similarly, writing prompts.

If it's freelance work or you're working with a far-off deadline, I find creating your own deadline and making a deal to stick to it no matter what can jumpstart the process. I am a procrastinator through and through - I thrive on it. So, making that down-to-the-wire tension for myself can kind of trick me into performing creatively.

Usually those are the things that start me off and one of them - or by the end of all of them - I'm writing! But if that doesn't work, I bring out all manner of tricks. The last resort? Giving it time. Letting yourself not do it.

8 years ago

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Kakashi2020

Kakashi2020

At times I would watch and finish an anime series that has an upbeat, inspiring and motivating tone. Watching anime also is a good source of information, I get to learn a lot of things. This helps my brain to process other data and this would give me inspiration to write again.

8 years ago

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amelia88

amelia88

One thing I've found lately that helps me with writer's block is trying to just write a plan in dot points. I don't really elaborate on the sentences early on, just write up a framework of where I want to go with the piece I plan to work on. Usually, by writing that framework and having a clear understanding of what I want to cover, the words flow a lot easier.

8 years ago

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Kakashi2020

Kakashi2020

Sometimes when I have writers block I would think of something to bake or cook and go out for a while to buy the ingredients. Doing this relaxes my mind and after I'm done baking muffins or cooking a dish I like, I would resume writing.

8 years ago

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Kakashi2020

Kakashi2020

I spend time chatting and commenting on Facebook. There's a lot of good topics in Facebook and when it's getting hard to write, sometimes I would turn to Facebook for some fresh ideas.

8 years ago

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Chinet23

Chinet23

I agree we can't force it. We have to take our minds off it at the meantime and do other activities. Lack of sleep and fatigue can sometimes cause mental block. A good sleep will definitely help. If I am under time constraint though, I will take a walk even just around the house. I don't know exactly what it does but I will feel refreshed and I get my mind to start working again.

8 years ago

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Kakashi2020

Kakashi2020

When I feel that you ts getting hard to think of something to write I would drop my writing and and do some cooking. I'll go out and by the ingredients I need and cook whatever I like to eat. I usually cook pasta and or bake some muffins or a cake. Cooking relaxes and clears my mind and usually after eating what I've cooked, I would be able to think of something to write again.

8 years ago

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NesMarcos

NesMarcos

I always experience mental block when I am lacking of sleep and rest. I do some routines in times that I can not think of the appropriate words to complete my thought. I try to close my eyes and relax. Relaxing makes me feel comfortable and closing my eyes makes my mind feel at ease for awhile. Next, I go outside and breathe some fresh air. And lastly, I eat fruits and yogurt. As much as possible I avoid eating sweets like chocolates, ice cream or anything that is high in sugar because bountiful amounts of sweets in the brain can possible disrupt our brains ability to think clearly.

8 years ago

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Corzhens

Corzhens

I think it is natural to experience mental block when you are not in good physical condition. Sometimes I feel like my head is empty and I couldn't think well when I am not feeling well. Like yesterday, I had symptoms of diarrhea that made me feel so uneasy with the thought of rushing to the toilet and there was also the abdominal pains. I went home early because I couldn't do my work in the office so it is better to just leave and make myself comfortable at home.

8 years ago

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NesMarcos

NesMarcos

Do you feel better now? I honestly believe that when our body is in not a good condition, our mind can't think of something better. That is the time when our body needs sufficient rest.

8 years ago

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mark8625

mark8625

Thinking too much may cause mental block. I think for you to be able to back on track is that compose yourself, relax and breath and for sure youll back in the reality again. Mental block is normal. Many people suffers same thing.

8 years ago

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Youngshark

Youngshark

Taking long walks. I love connecting with nature and through that i can be able to reconstruct some random thoughts peacefully.

8 years ago

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Alymae

Alymae

Every writer experience this. Sometimes for a short time or for weeks. Everytime I have writers' block, I commune with nature. I go outdoors, take a walk in the park, go hiking and go to the beach. Also, watching people interact works for me. Somehow, this restarts my brain and inspires me to have new ideas.

8 years ago

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superlicca

superlicca

Allowing yourself to relax is one of the great ways when you experience mental block. Whatever one does, everyone can experience this. It is an uncontrollable situation that happens for different reasons. Just try to meditate. This will help your mind and body relax. Go to a quiet and comfortable place and take a nap. This will decrease your stress and help your brain perform well.

8 years ago

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MiaManimbo

MiaManimbo

Sometimes, when I reach the point of not being able to focus on writing, I usually eat my comfort food, specifically sweets. I think that the sugar content of those food helps boost my mood and my mind. But mostly, I always take a nap whenever I'm tired. Way back in college, I experienced a lot of mental blocks. I tried to keep moving on but it just makes me feel uncomfortable, dizzy and out of focus. That's the time when I realized that straining yourself and your mind too much will cause loss of concentration that's why enough amount of rest is a necessity to be able to relax my body and mind mind for them to function well.

8 years ago

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Zelmontero

Zelmontero

During mental block I usually just a watch a movie to be entertained. Entertaining yourself will make you relax and can help you to think new ideas. It is better to enjoy yourself than to be stressed over it. Travelling can also be a good to when you are experiencing mental block. New scenery may trigger your creative mind.

8 years ago

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Jenniferdainty

Jenniferdainty

Eat sweet foods, drink coffee, or sleep if I could. These ways are effective for me. After doing one of these activities, my mind is back to normal again and most of the time it's more active. I don't force myself to think because I used to do that before and the result was not always up to standard. Yes, I will finish the task, however, the quality is not satisfying.

8 years ago

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blackmist

blackmist

Go out with friends to refresh your mind. Or sometimes we go out and have a food trip. It's more fun to sometimes lossen up and not just work everyday.

8 years ago

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vivalavanda

vivalavanda

I don't force myself to write and squeeze anything on my mind when I am having a mental block because it will just make everything worse and will just stress me out. But what I do is refresh my mind, I do things that make me happy like watching movies and listening to music. Sometimes, I use the magic of the internet, I have this application on my phone that suggests some random plot and characters and it really helps me most of the times.

8 years ago

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ajahcuizon

ajahcuizon

I always experience this kind of mental block if I am disturbed by something in the back of my mind. What I do to get myself back is I'll shake my head and say to myself that I need to focus. I also stand up and stretch up my arms so that my mind could turn back to my paper and it is effective. I also believe that eating chocolates are good to prevent mental block, not quite sure if its true but it works for me!

8 years ago

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romyter013

romyter013

Many ideas for sure comes up in our mind every time we write. What I usually do, I make sure that no one around the house when I start, once the kids are at school that's the only time I begin to every thing to make sure I'll be able to complete my thoughts. Listening with instrumental jazz music is what help me get back to work and recall all the ideas a had in mind before i get mental block again after the song ends.

8 years ago

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Aeolos

Aeolos

I usually go to high places like on a mountain or something. Looking things from afar makes me gather my thoughts and create new ideas to write. I preferably do this in the morning where the mountain air is still cold and is very refreshing. I wont get myself to watch new movies or read books as to say to get new idea. Sometimes, a a walk on nature can be very helpful to let us keep back on track and get new perspective for the one I am currently doing.

8 years ago

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jeffreyjose48

jeffreyjose48

I just pray to the Lord to bring back my sound mind. I had experienced it on a job interview. I don't know what to say. Thanks for the interviewer who was so patient with me. He asked me again and again until I gave him my answer.

8 years ago

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Gilgamesh

Gilgamesh

I've encountered that problem several times in my life, "my mind got spaced out and I don't know what to say I became lost in the middle of nowhere" those are the things that comes from my mind when I experience it. I do some tricks when I got blanked out, somethimes I will take a deep breath for me to relax and at first will continue of what I'm trying to say in a impromptu way; I will just go on until I remember the things that must said. Sometimes I drink in a bottle of water while remembering it because the will not notice that I got spaced out in a while.

8 years ago

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superlicca

superlicca

Forcing yourself to think of new ideas is not good. It will just abuse your mind. Take time to relax and have a good sleep. Sometimes, sleep deprivation is the cause of mental block. If you will be able to take a rest and get enough sleep, your mind will be refreshed and a great and new idea will just naturally come out.

8 years ago

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cmoneyspinner

cmoneyspinner

If it doesn't last for an extended period of time, I let the “mental block” have its way with me. I think sometimes your mind is telling you that you need to give it a rest. However, if it goes for too long a period of time then I will have to find something to stimulate the brain neurons. Depending on my mood the stimulation could take a wide range of forms. Listening to music. Reading a book, magazine, or newspaper. Talking to my husband or kids. Going through some of my old writings. Get on social media and peruse the posts stream or chat with friends. Go to sleep and dream. What do you do during days of mental block?

What do you do during days of mental block?

8 years ago

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jaymish3

jaymish3

What we also tend to forget is that mental blocks are a sign of fatigue. All it takes is to get some rest. Taking a holiday or just spending a day or two away from your writing is sure to give you some much needed inspiration. Burnout is an all too common phenomena. I for one have it on a very regular basis and the way to cure it is to take a breathe and refocus before you know you are bright as new and ready to take on your writing.

8 years ago

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theresajane

theresajane

You have a great point. All we need is relaxation for both body and mind.

8 years ago

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NuffsaidPisces

NuffsaidPisces

Mental block has got to be the number one reason that I haven't finished a lot of my poems or short stories. At first I used to just put the pen down and sit and look at the page like words were going to magically appear but, no such luck. So whenever I get writers block nowadays I switch up the pen I'm using because, the feeling of a pen that has smooth writing strokes is absolute heaven! Theres nothing like the feel of a fresh pen that lets your thoughts become fluid on paper. Or, sometimes I may smoke a joint to calm my nerves and let it activates my creative side. Writers block is normal and with a little imagination you can break down those walls of procrastination..............nuffsaid

8 years ago

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rlpzbeermoney

rlpzbeermoney

One thing I do is just completely abandoning writing and just do what the body tells you to do. Go out and see a movie. Eat out at a restaurant. Take a nap. The one problem that plagues me is that I spend too much time worrying about my work because of the mental block that I get nothing done. Better to spend that time in other places since you're not going to get anything done anyway.

8 years ago

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mitan143

mitan143

I think most of us take breaks when mental block hits us hard. Relaxing and refreshing your mind is a good way to overcome mental block and stress from writing. But sometimes, I would crave for ice cream or any cold refreshments. I'm not taking them literally for refreshing minds but it is one of my favorite foods and stress reliever. Having a mental block is also a product of stress, right? The only thing that I hate when I'm on mental block is I have a bigger chance to completely lost the idea to what I am writing and it really pisses me off again.

8 years ago

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Aeolos

Aeolos

During mental block, an escape from work will do the job. Taking a break for a few days will unclog your mind from the days you have been working. Try going to some quite place so you can have no distractions and your thoughts will clear up. Eventually new ideas will spring out from your mind and will get you back in your writing career.

8 years ago

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jayjaydimson

jayjaydimson

This case happens to me during an interview, especially if its an English interview. I am from the Philippines, and English is not my first tongue language. I used to stop thinking about anything, I will just focus on one thing, the thing that I will be saying after I said the specific words. I will relax my mind and I don't think too much, because I know it will not help me. So by relaxing yourself, you can now think of something you are going to say after you mental black.

8 years ago

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Kakashi2020

Kakashi2020

Sometimes when I'm suffering from writer's block I would leave writing for a while and take some time off doing other things like cycling or martial arts or even watching concerts just to refresh my brain.

8 years ago

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beerthooyah

beerthooyah

I usually experience mental block mostly during exams back in my college days. During that time, I noticed that mental block mostly occurs when I am not comfortable or relaxed. The reason maybe because are of lack of sleep or nervousness and insufficient nutrition. With that being said, to avoid such situation one must make sure that he has taken enough rest and should have a proper diet. Health is the main factor for us to avoid mental block.

8 years ago

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coolavender

coolavender

Mental block usually just happens to me when I lack sleep and rest. When I was younger, sleeplessness and other discomforts didn't have that much effect on my ability to work normally. I can work 48 hours straight and still be productive up to the very end. Nowadays, I realize that it has gotten harder to cheat my body and I just have to give in and sleep or rest when I have to. Adequate sleep and recreational activities refresh my mind and body and make me more productive.

8 years ago

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jpk0007

jpk0007

Yes all of us experience mental blocks at some point or the other whenever we do anything creative. I guess it happens more when you are writing for a long period of time without taking any breaks in between.
The best way to fight a mental block is to take a break for a while. Engage yourself in something else which will rejuvenate your mind and body. Go for a long walk , watch a nice movie , spend time with your family or you can even do meditation. Once you recharge yourself you restart again and I am sure you will have successfully overcome your mental block.

8 years ago

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theresajane

theresajane

It is really hard to have mental blocks. It keeps you away from being productive. What makes it worst is the pressure. It is also hard to deal with deadlines, people who look forward to your writing and other factors. What I do with mental block is just simple, I just let myself sit or lie on my bed and get away from my writing to let my mind be drifted far from everything. I let my mind unwind and relax. Though it is hard, during days when you are being pushed, I still make time for myself and for my mind to be at peace.

8 years ago

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stormbreaker10

stormbreaker10

Many procedures you will do on being mental block, but i think the best way you can do first is take a break for a while, care yourself. Mental block accure because lack of sleep and the second one I think before to start your day, make a to do list. Think of your objectives you will do in the present day atleast if your experiencing mental block just check you to do list.

8 years ago

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Kakashi2020

Kakashi2020

If it's just a simple mental block then I would just drop what I'm writing for an hour or two and watch a good movie at home or I would take a break and eat whatever I like to eat. But when it's the severe type of mental block, I would call my friends for some drinks or I would go to a mall buy something or just window shop for a bit.

8 years ago

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mhingnhormz

mhingnhormz

For me it is natural to experience a mental block, it is because you are stress or over fatigue. When this times come I just put my self to relax, inhale, and take a deep breath. i love to eat fooda during this times specially ice cream it helps to refresh my minds as well not only my body. Sometimes, listening music is great too.

8 years ago

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Wenkx03

Wenkx03

In case of mental block always take a deep breath and think every thing that you work for. Always set your mind in happy thoughts. Take a break, travel, listen to your favorite song or eat some of your comfort food. Treat yourself once in a while. Mental block mostly occurs when your depress and irritated.

8 years ago

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