7 Sure Ways to Get Rid of Writer's Block ...

If you can't afford a trip to the Grand Canyon, look at photographs online. Even better, step outside and admire the scenery. If your yard contains two trees and a broken swing set, don't fret! Finding the beauty in something so simple will get your mind turning. One of the ways to get rid of writer's block is to search for beauty and enjoy it.

Write about a childhood memory. Write a fanfic about your favorite TV show. Write about how much you hate writer's block. The content doesn't make a difference; all that matters is that you're putting thoughts on paper. If you throw out everything you write, so what? At least you're writing.

Here's your excuse to watch your favorite episode of Sherlock for the tenth time (seriously, season 3 needs to air already). Pay attention to the dialogue, the movements, the scenery. Once you're finished, try to write out the scene in your own way. How would you describe John's voice during the phone call? What about Moriarty's smile during the roof scene? This exercise will help you come up with descriptions and metaphors. Just don't pass off the work as your own--Moffat and Gatiss deserve the credit.

Reading lets you enter new worlds. If our universe is too plain for you, stepping into another can spark some new ideas. Try reading something by Neil Gaiman or Gene Wolfe if you want to stretch your imagination. It's never okay to plagiarize, but it's normal to admire other author's work and use their ideas to fuel your own. In order to be a great writer, you need to be an experienced reader.

If you're able to remember your dreams, write them down when you wake up. Throughout the day, keep a book with you. You know the random scenarios that play out in your head during class? They might seem useless now, but you can combine those ideas in the future to create something great. It won't take long to jot down your thoughts and they could be lifesavers in the future.

Flip through the dictionary to find words that catch your eye. If you want another exercise, randomly point to 5 words and create a story that involves all of them. If you have friends or family members around, you can bypass the book and ask them to come up with random words. By forcing yourself to create a story within boundaries, you're forced to think outside of the box. It can help get your creative juices flowing.

If music helps inspire you, put on your favorite song. If talking to a friend or even yourself helps, do so. If you're not sure what works for you yet, try going for a walk or meditating or eavesdropping on conversations. You never know what could be the cure for your writer's block. Do whatever it takes to get rid of it and never stop writing!

The next time you have trouble putting a pen to paper, try out these ideas. Something simple can give you the push you need. What helps you when you have writer's block?