Writing is a solitary profession. We park ourselves in front of our computer or yellow tablet and write for hours with no one else around. Only another writer could understand how we feel when we get stuck. Many times writer's block occurs because of our bad habits and attitudes. Here are some symptoms and remedies to use so that you can get back to your great writing.

1. Procrastination

Procrastination means to postpone or delay needlessly. The key word in that last sentence is needlessly. This is the perfectionist in you coming out. You have set such high standards in your writing and you are displeased with anything less. It could be better, you think.

Solution: Forget about the perfect sentences right now. Just write. Write the imperfect sentence. Tell yourself, "This is just a first draft." Get the words out-perfect or not. You will get someone to proofread and then edit your writing later. I know this is easier said than done for a perfectionist yet you have to let go of trying to make the first draft perfect. A good editor will take care of that for you with the second draft.

2. Not enough willpower

Willpower means the ability to carry out your decisions, wishes, or plans. Then the lack of willpower must mean you can't follow through on your decisions or plans. Is that possible? Does someone have a gun to your head? If not, then you do have control of your Will. You wanted to write, but you can't? Something is wrong with your thinking. Ask yourself again, "Is this book important to me and to my readers?"

Solution: How about saying, "Yes, I WILL do it," and then do it. Well, it's going to take a little work on your part to believe it. So start your mornings with a litany of positive statements you will say about yourself. Write again even if it is only one or two sentences to start. Get back to your writing. Work on a different section if you are stuck. After all you are in charge of your writing and you don't have to start at the beginning. Start at the middle or wherever your creative juices lead you, but keep on writing. The will to finish your book is entirely in your hands.

3. Ran out of Ideas

Whoops! Did you forget to do some preliminary planning to help keep those ideas flowing?

Solution: Did you identify the purpose of your book? What is the benefit to the reader? Why should the reader buy your book? Why are you spending your hard earned time writing this book? Why is your book so important? What problem are you going to solve for the reader?

Make a list of 10 ways your book will help or entertain the reader. When you are finished you have 10 chapters or 10 fresh ideas, so now you can continue writing because you have lots of great ideas for your book.

The key to your writing success is to keep on writing. Never let writer's block take over your writing life. When you are stuck identify the reason why. Be aware. Do some of the activities above, be committed, and keep on writing your great book.