Beata Cvečkovska, an aspiring writer, shared her thoughts on overcoming the fear of a blank page.
Creative block, also known as “writer’s block” or “blank page syndrome,” is not a myth but a real problem that many writers face. This condition is characterized by a temporary inability to start or continue working on a text due to fear, anxiety, or lack of inspiration.
Julia Spicher Kasdorf, director of the MFA program at the University of Pennsylvania, asserts that writer’s block is as real as any other type of anxiety. “There’s a huge resistance building up inside a person, which I would characterize as intense fear,” says Kasdorf. She explains that the roots of this problem go back to elementary school, where writing is taught as a result, not as a process. Over the years, the pressure associated with the need to create quality texts only intensifies.
Studies conducted in the 1970s by Yale University scientists Jerome Singer and Michael Barrios shed light on the causes of this phenomenon. Studying a group of “blocked” professional writers – from screenwriters to poets – they found that self-criticism, doubts, and even “aversion to loneliness” often become triggers for creative stupor.
For many novice writers, a blank sheet of paper or an empty computer screen can cause real fear. This phenomenon, known as “blank page syndrome,” can paralyze the creative process, preventing the first step from being taken.
Understanding blank page syndrome
First of all, it’s important to realise that fear of a blank page is normal. As writer Jennifer Egan notes: “You can write regularly only if you’re willing to write badly… Accept bad writing as a way to start the process, as a warm-up that will allow you to write well.”
Jonathan Franzen adds: “The empty page in the mind must be filled before you have the courage to face a real empty page.”
In other words, overcoming the fear of a blank page begins with changing our attitude towards the writing process.
Now that we understand the nature of blank page syndrome, let’s look at practical steps to overcome it:
Set a word count goal
Striving for perfection often paralyzes. Instead, set a goal to write a certain number of words, regardless of their quality.
Write stream of consciousness
Write down everything that comes to mind without stopping for editing or grammar. This will help overcome the block and start the creative process.
Take a break
If you’ve been staring at a blank page for too long, distract yourself. Take a walk, watch a movie, or read a book.
Find a writing partner
Sometimes the best way to overcome blank page syndrome is to find someone to discuss your work with and get feedback.
Read other authors
Reading the works of other writers can inspire you and give ideas for your own creativity.
Write in small portions
Instead of trying to write everything at once, break the work into small, manageable parts.
Eliminate distractions
Make sure you have a quiet, comfortable workspace where you won’t be interrupted.
Be patient
Remember that every writer experiences moments of doubt. Be patient with yourself and keep working.
Just write
As Philip Meyer says: “I don’t think ‘writer’s block’ really exists. Essentially, it’s self-doubt.” The only way to overcome this self-doubt is to keep writing.
Conclusion
Blank page syndrome is an obstacle that many writers face, especially beginners. But this obstacle can be overcome. Changing perspective, regular practice, and using specific strategies can help you overcome the fear of a blank page and start creating.
Remember the words of Joyce Carol Oates: “It’s better to think first – think long – and then write when you’re ready to write.” Allow yourself time for reflection, but don’t let the fear of imperfection hold you back from writing.
A blank page is not an enemy, but an opportunity. Accept the challenge, and let your words fill this void.
