Use writing prompts to overcome writer’s block.

Cheryl Strayed is the #1 New York Times best-selling author of Wild, Tiny Beautiful Things, Brave Enough, and Torch. Cheryl suggests using these writing prompts because she has found that when you make a start, you develop ideas. Next, you can review them and improve your thinking. The benefits of even 30 minutes a week of scribbling can transfer to everything else that you do. These prompts are brilliant and make fantastic jumping-off points for any type of journaling or writing, a blog post, the beginning of a novel, a letter to a friend, a diary entry, or a screenplay.

1. Get a blank page and a pen, pencil, or laptop, etc.
   Your choice of writing utensil should depend on whether you prefer longhand or typing.

2. Start by putting some thoughts on paper.
   Try one to two pages of longhand writing. Go for uninterrupted flow; don’t stop to edit.

3. If you can’t think of anything, try the following writing prompts.
   Write about: a time you realized you were mistaken, a lesson you learned the hard way, a time you were inappropriately dressed for an occasion, something you lost that you’ll never get back, a time when you knew you’d done the right thing, memories of a physical injury, being loved, or the kindness of strangers.

4. Generate material without judging.
   Chances are, you’ll surprise yourself.