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Writer's Block

I stared at my computer, but the writing wouldn't flow...

Hello there, I trust you are well and enjoying the Spring sunshine. Long may it last.


Since the last blog, I have been suffering from a viral infection. I only know this because I managed to arrange an appointment to see an advanced practitioner, (a doctor wasn’t available) and I was diagnosed as having a virus.


It was funny actually because when I entered the surgery, a young lady said good morning and asked me to sit down. I thought, perhaps she was a trainee, undertaking work experience and waiting for somebody senior to arrive to see me. I was shocked when she sat in the doctor's chair and began to ask me lots of questions and typed notes on the computer. I couldn't believe it. This situation reminded me of the old adage about when you see a policeman who looks like a 6 th former, you know you are getting old! Well, this young lady really did look like a 6 th former to me!


As a result of feeling under the weather and tired, I didn't achieve my writing goals. I stared at my computer, but the writing wouldn't flow. It's a horrible feeling. I tried writing every day, but the same thing happened. This had never happened before, and it was quite worrying. Yes, I've had days when only half a page of writing was completed, but never a blank page.


The good news is I'm feeling much better, and in the last two days, I've managed to get up to speed again and written almost 5000 words. Back to normal, I hope.


Do you have those days/weeks when things don't work out? I'm sure you do. It might not be an illness as in my case: it could be anything, e.g. work-related problems, relationship issues, financial worries, cost of living/energy, to name but a few. You can probably think of lots more issues personal to you. Whatever the reason, such times can be extremely worrying and stressful to the individual.


How do you cope with or manage such situations? Do you have support mechanisms in place to help you? Perhaps a good friend, family member, work colleague or spouse. Or do you release your tension by attending the gym or going for a run or bike ride?


Don't be afraid to open up and discuss a problem or issue. Getting things off your chest can be a great first step. The last thing you want is to keep thing bottled up. Seek help and advice. Whatever the situation, never feel you are alone. There are many support networks out there willing to help you.


I got carried away there. Sorry about that. I didn't intend to go down this path. It was my ‘life coaching’ training taking over.


I always have the golf course to wack a silly white ball about if I feel down. What practical advice/activity would you engage in when you feel down? Let me know.


Until next time, happy reading.

Mansel




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