Writer’s block is dead. You killed it.

How many times have you sat down wanting and willing to write only to end up staring at a blank screen for hours before giving up? Writer’s block is a problem that haunts the most prolific copywriters and bloggers more often than they care to admit.

So here are 7 easy-to-follow techniques you can use to get rid of writer’s block, get those lazy fingers of yours moving and kick-start your brain into writing again.

Technique #1: Go to your trusty swipe file.
You have a swipe file right? If you don’t it’s about time you start creating one! (but that’s a whole new topic that I’ll be posting about soon). If you don’t have a swipe file yet, try any of the following techniques.

Technique #2: Write the fun part first.
If you’re stuck at the beginning, quit whining about the perfect headline and try writing your favorite part of the piece first. Try writing the offer first, or introduce the price, or write the guarantee… and then work your way up the rest of the letter.

Technique #3: Write someplace new.
When you’ve been staring at a blank computer screen for hours, it may be time to accept the fact that your best writing is not going to start there. Turn off the computer, visit a local coffee house or stroll down the park with an old-fashioned pen and notebook… you’ll be surprised at how inspiring this change of pace can be.

Technique #4: Fix your attitude.
Beating yourself up over not being creative on demand is not going to help. Try listening to some nice music (Enya works great for me) and try visualizing a positive outcome. This is not some “positive thinking” mumbo-jumbo… it’s a conscious attempt to change your attitude towards writing and it can work wonders when you’re feeling blocked.

Technique #5: Write crap.
Just accept the fact that your first draft will suck anyway. So just get those fingers moving and write it… even if you know it’s an awful piece. You can edit it later, just get something done and give your brain that nice feeling of accomplishment.

Technique #6: Take a break.
Sometimes when the brain is blocked, all you need to do is focus on something else. Go take a walk, watch a movie, take a nap, slurp a chocolate milkshake… anything to get your mind of the writing. Then come back, sit down and get started.

Technique #7: Give freewriting a chance.
When everything else fails, just start writing. Open your word processor (or even your windows notepad), turn off your computer monitor and just write anything for a fixed period of time – 10 minutes should work – and don’t stop no matter what happens. Even if you know that you’re only writing incoherent sentences riddled with typos and grammar that would make a stripper blush. A block ends when you start typing… so just get those fingers moving and your brain will follow along shortly.