Commit to the Craft: Faith, Focus, and Flow: to Beat Writer’s Block - Part I
Introduction
For African-descended women in religious scholarship, writing isn’t just about intellectual rigor—it’s about navigating multiple responsibilities while striving to make an impact. Many scholars juggle church duties, family obligations, and financial pressures, all of which compete for their writing time. Unlike their white colleagues, Black scholars are often asked to take on more service roles, and independent scholars in particular face the additional challenge of sustaining themselves financially while pursuing their research. The result? It can appear as though they’re struggling to meet their writing goals when, in reality, they’re managing extraordinary pressures.
If this sounds familiar, know that you’re not alone. Your work is valuable, and your voice is necessary. This series will offer practical strategies tailored to your reality, helping you move past writer’s block, develop consistent writing habits, and identify the most effective ways to make progress despite your demanding schedule.
Part 1: Overcoming Writer’s Block
Writer’s block is a common struggle, but for many Black women in religious scholarship, it’s not just a matter of creativity—it’s the weight of expectations, systemic barriers, and sheer exhaustion. If you find yourself stuck, here are some strategies to reclaim your voice and keep writing.
1. Freewriting to Break Resistance
Sometimes the words won’t come because we’re carrying too much. Expectations, critiques, and financial pressures can silence our voices. Freewriting is a way to push past that. Set a timer for 10 minutes and write whatever comes to mind about your topic. Don’t worry about structure or coherence. This is about reconnecting with your thoughts and allowing your ideas to flow freely without judgment.
2. Change Your Environment
If you feel mentally blocked, consider stepping away from your usual workspace. Go to a library, a quiet café, or even sit in your car with a notebook. For those juggling multiple roles, writing in the same place where you handle church responsibilities, family matters, or day-job tasks may create mental fatigue. A change of scenery can help signal to your brain that this is sacred time for your work.
3. Outline First, Write Later
When time is limited, staring at a blank page can be paralyzing. Instead of forcing yourself to write in full sentences immediately, create a structured outline. List key points, arguments, or even scripture references. This makes it easier to begin writing without feeling overwhelmed. Outlining is especially helpful when you only have small pockets of time to write.
4. Engage in Active Reading
When your voice feels blocked, immerse yourself in the work of other Black scholars and theologians. Read books, articles, and essays that resonate with your experiences and expertise. Seeing how others have navigated similar struggles can inspire you and remind you that your contribution is necessary.
5. Set Small, Achievable Goals
If your life is filled with competing demands, setting unrealistic goals will only create frustration. Instead of aiming to write an entire chapter in one sitting, commit to a single paragraph or a few sentences. Small victories build confidence and momentum.
Coming Up Next: Developing Habits for Consistent Writing
Once you overcome writer’s block, consistency is key. In the next installment, we’ll explore strategies to build sustainable writing habits that keep you moving forward, even when navigating extraordinary challenges.
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