Overcoming Writer's Block: A Simple Brainstorming Technique
Welcome to our training document! Today, you're going to learn a practical technique that can help you generate content ideas, even when faced with the daunting challenge of writer's block. This method is not only simple, but it is highly effective in unclogging the creative streams and bringing forth a cascade of ideas for your audience.
What You'll Need:
- A Pen
- Paper (Note: It is essential to use physical paper; avoid computers or digital documents for this exercise.)
- A Timer (Your phone will suffice.)
The Process:
When you find yourself questioning, “What on earth should I create content about?” this approach is designed to help break through that barrier. Begin by considering the question, “What do I want to make a video about for my audience that will help them?” Think about the expertise or knowledge you possess that could deliver value to your audience.
Step 1: Set Your Timer
Configure your timer for a two-minute countdown. Ensure you are prepared to write as soon as the timer starts.
Step 2: Start the Timer and Write
As soon as you hit ‘start' on your timer, place your pen on the paper and jot down bullet points of ideas that immediately come to mind. Don't allow yourself to stop writing, even if you feel stuck.
Example:
Imagine you're pondering what would benefit your audience. A thought comes to mind: “How to be effective on camera.” You click ‘start' on your timer and write down bullet points such as:
– Equipment usage
– Gaining confidence
– Overcoming fear
If you find yourself stuck, don't pause to think—continue to write. Whatever thoughts pop into your head, let them out, even if it's as random as “pizza” or “pineapples.”
Step 3: Continue the Flow
Keep writing until the timer stops. The idea is to push past the immediate blockages in your mind. Think of the writing process as clearing out a conveyor belt. By writing down the immediate, sometimes random thoughts, you make room for more relevant ideas to surface.
Step 4: Review Your Ideas
Once the two minutes are up, review your list. Skim through the potential content ideas, and identify those that resonate the most with you and will likely resonate with your audience. Strike through irrelevant ideas, like “pizza” (unless your channel is about food), and focus on the ones that are aligned with your expertise.
The Outcome:
In just two minutes, you'll be surprised at how many viable content ideas you might generate. This isn't theoretical; it's a technique used in the creation of actual content—including this very training document.
Recap of the Technique:
- Gather your pen, paper, and a timer.
- Before starting the timer, focus on what value you can provide to your audience.
- Start the timer and begin writing bullet points of ideas non-stop for two minutes.
- Once the time is up, review your list and identify the best ideas.
You now have a straightforward and powerful method to tackle writer's block and spark your content creation process. Give it a try, and you'll find yourself with multiple content ideas in mere minutes. Practice this brainstorming technique regularly, and watch your idea bank grow.
We hope you found this guidance helpful. Stay tuned for the next segment in our video course series!
