Bird by Bird (89-121)

The author talks about the importance of bringing something to write with you everywhere you go. It's important to be observant when you're in public and listen for phrases or look for situations that might enhance your writing, and you'll want to write these things down every chance you get. They may spark a great story or give you inspiration when you're experiencing writer's block.

Another thing I learned was how to use your resources and the people around you. If you want to write your story about a topic you aren't an expert in, or just have a few questions relevant to said topic, talk to someone who knows all about it. Use what they say in your writing to make the story feel more real.

I also learned about the benefits of working alongside other writers. Whether this be peer-editing one another's papers or going to a writing class, it will help you in your writing. Reading other people's work will give you an idea of what works for you and what doesn't, and getting second opinions from other writer's of different skill levels will help you make your story the best that it can be. 

Writer's block affects even the most experienced of writers, and one way to battle it is to just keep writing. Write down whatever comes to mind, and go back and fix your mistakes later when you get back into your writing "groove." If you allow yourself to take a break, simply because you are experiencing this writer's block, it will be more difficult to get yourself started again. It's important to persevere through it and just keep writing.