None of us is immune to writer's block. From well-known novelists to students, associates in business and law firms, and even those who struggle to sit down to write personal correspondence or journal entries, everyone who writes has experienced either brief moments or longer periods when the words simply won't come.
In Unstuck, poet, author and writing coach Jane Anne Staw uncovers the reasons we get blocked, from practical to emotional, and many in between, and offers powerful ways to get writing again. Based on her experiences working with writers as well as her own struggle with writer's block, Staw provides comfort and encouragement, along with effective strategies for working through this common yet vexing problem.
Topics include: understanding what's behind the block* handling anxiety and fear* carving out time and space to write* clearing out old beliefs and doubts* techniques to relax and begin* managing your expectations as well as those of family and friends* experimenting with genre, voice, and subject matter* defusing the emotional traps that sabotage progress and success* ending the struggle and regaining confidence and freedom by finding your true voice, and using it.
Writers of all levels will find solace, support, and help in this book, leading them to an even deeper connection with their work and more productivity on the page.
"In a way [Unstuck] forces you to scrutinize yourself, the book is like a hard day at the therapist's office: You feel a little vulnerable, but ready to take the next step."
San Francisco Weekly
"My book would not exist without Jane Anne Staw. She creatively, lovingly, and patiently guided me past my convoluted blocks. And she can do it for you. Unstuck will transform your relationship to your writing and wisely help free you into your true writing self."
Susan G. Wooldridge, author of Poemcrazy: Freeing Your Life with Words
"Unstuck is filled with honesty, compassion, and a lyrical prose that leaves its indelible impressions on you long after you've put the book down. An overdue essential that will become every writer's companion."