How to Overcome Writer’s Block

If you’re a Dungeon Master (DM), chances are you’ve experienced phases of writer’s block. Occasionally, creativity can strike at the spur of the moment during game play, but other times planning is required ahead of time. That begs the question: what should you do when you’re facing writer’s block? We put together a few tips to help you get creatively inspired and overcome writer’s block.

Brainstorm

Our first tip comes from Reddit user Coord26673— “Brainstorm with critical thinking, write down an NPC name, who are they, why are they there, what is their goal, when do they need to achieve it, how are they doing it?” Write as much as you need to— no detail is too small! The more you have written, the better off you’ll be later. Once you establish these base qualities and characteristics, build out your story and plot hooks from there. 

Take A Break

It may seem counterintuitive, but take a break! Sometimes the best thing you can do to overcome a block is to walk away and shift your focus to something else to spark some creativity. Go for a walk, read a book, listen to a podcast (we know a pretty good one)...the options are endless— Give yourself some time and space to refresh your creativity. Trust the process and remain confident the writer’s block won’t last forever (even if it may seem like you’ll never write a decent plot again).

Use External Resources

Do a quick Google search, read through DnD blogs, Reddit threads, Facebook groups...you get the gist. In the wellspring of information that is the Internet, there’s surely some inspiration you can draw from other sources. IMPORTANT NOTE: We are not suggesting you plagiarize and rip off someone else’s work. What we are suggesting is you spark your own creative abilities through other stories, resources, etc.  

Remember— if you’re experiencing writer’s or creative block, you aren’t alone! This block is only temporary. Try brainstorming, taking a break, or scrolling through online resources to help you overcome your block and get back to writing. You’ll be writing great adventures in no time!

And if all else fails, you can do what Reddit user AeoSC suggested— “I wait until the last minute panic sets in.”