Write Squad Fortnightly News
Beat writers block and find your flow.
Hi Squad,
Happy Monday! I hope this week brings you a little more flow and a little less frustration at the keyboard. This week, we’re tackling a big one—writer’s block. What it is, why it hits, and three practical ways to get through it.
Also, a quick heads-up: we’re shifting to fortnightly newsletters from here on out. Same helpful tips and writing inspo, just a little more breathing room between instalments.
And if you haven’t already, come join the chat over on Instagram @jfgibsonwriter—I’d love to hear how your writing week is going.
🧠 Three Tips to Beat Writer’s Block
Writer’s block. It’s something every writer faces at some point, whether you’re working on your first manuscript or your tenth. But the good news? It’s not permanent. With a few simple strategies, you can ease through the stuck moments and keep moving forward.
📍 1. Lower the Stakes
Often, writer’s block is less about having no ideas and more about putting too much pressure on the words to be perfect. When every sentence has to sound polished from the start, it’s easy to freeze up.
Instead, give yourself permission to write a rough version—something you know you’ll come back and revise. Tell yourself, this is just a sketch, or no one else will see this yet. Taking the pressure off can help free up your creativity and get the words flowing again.
🧱 2. Change Your Environment
A small change of scenery can make a big difference. If you usually write at your desk, try moving to another room, heading to a local café, or even just sitting outside with a notebook. Writing by hand can also help if you’re feeling stuck on the screen.
Sometimes a fresh setting helps you approach your work with fresh eyes.
🌀 3. Skip Ahead
If you’re stuck on one part of your story, don’t be afraid to move past it. Jump ahead to a scene you’re excited to write—whether it’s a dramatic turning point, a romantic moment, or the ending you’ve had in mind from the start.
Writing scenes out of order is completely valid, and it can help you build momentum. You can always go back and fill in the gaps later.
💡 The Takeaway
Writer’s block is a normal part of the creative process. It doesn’t mean you’re out of ideas or doing something wrong. Often, it’s a sign you need to shift gears—ease the pressure, mix things up, or simply write something else for a while.
Be kind to yourself, keep showing up, and remember: the words will come.
Comps & Opportunities
☘️ Publishable - QLD Writers Centre
Date: 20th May
Manuscript development competition. Details here.
☘️ Peter Cowan Short Story Competition
Date: 30th April
Short stories of 600 words or less! Details here.
☘️ Varuna Fellowships
Date: 5th May
Now open for 2026. Details here.
Food for Thought
⚡️ Australian Children’s Author signs 8 figure book deal!
⚡️ From Indie Publishing to a Six Figure Deal
Ask The Author Podcast
🎙️ This week, on the Ask The Author podcast…
How well do you know your MC? In this week’s episode of Ask The Author, I give you my five top tips on getting to know your characters. And, if you have your own question, please feel free to ask by hitting reply to this email. (And you can remain anonymous.)
Now out on your fav podcast app, or here’s the apple link or simply search for Ask The Author with Jodi Gibson
Until next time, happy writing!
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