10 Ways to Get out of “Angry Writer Mode”

You know what I’m talking about.

Your script isn't singing the way you want it to. The words aren't flowing. That goddamn plot point is mocking you (you can literally hear the courier font laughing at you). That crucial story shifting scene sounds fake and contrived no matter how many times you re-write the damn thing.

Plus, you forgot to pay that electric bill because you were so caught up in solving that damn plot point problem. So the lights just went off. Seriously?! What now... Where do you look to get out of the rut?

Here's a quick list of mood boosters that will help you push past and keep chugging.

1. Breathe. I’m not saying to get into some crazy yoga asana or chant a mantra. I’m just saying: literally breathe. Pay attention to the air coming in and out of your lungs. Try taking deeper and deeper breaths. Count your breaths. It’s pretty cool to be alive, isn’t it? Maybe even step outside and get some fresh air, huh? And while you’re out there…

1. Take a walk. It’s not just a Passion Pit song. Getting some physical exercise will clear your mind and get the endorphins flowing. If you have a dog, take him or her along for the ride. Any exercise works, so if walking doesn’t do it for you try kick-boxing, Zumba, Crossfit, tribal dance, whatever. As Nike would say: just do it.

1. Phone a friend. Assuming you have friends, they like you and care about you and your feelings. Sometimes you just need to hear someone’s voice and be reminded that not everyone is living in a dimly lit room that smells like burnt computer. Give them a ring, crack a joke and ask how they are. Listen and be a good friend (because that will actually brighten your day more than complaining will) and once they feel better, politely end the call and get back to your room!

1. Write something completely different. Literally, open up a new document file and just start writing a new project or spilling ideas. Shifting your brain into a new story with new characters and new environments will wake you up and get you going. It’s like having a first kiss with someone you just met. It will either take your breath away or remind you how in love you are with your primary lover or project (you cheater!). Either way, it works. And unlike monogamous relationships, you are allowed as many projects as you want. So take advantage.

1. Draw a picture. Flexing a different creative muscle can be a welcome break and also lend new insights and metaphors for your writing. Plus, it can be a picture of whatever you want: your lead character, someone sexy, a heart, a booger, anything. You have totally free reign and there are no rules (unlike the ones commonly found in screenplays), so let your inner child out to play and enjoy it!

1. Have a snack. This might seem like terrible advice from someone who has mastered the art of eating to procrastinate. (“Just one more handful of chocolates and then I’ll get back to that Act 3 thingy.”) That said, sometimes we go into the writing cave and get too damn focused to feel time passing. Sometimes we forget to eat. Maybe you’re just angry because you’re hungry. A little PB&J never hurt nobody.

1. Book a massage. There are literally no excuses here. You can get a $35 massage on one side of town or a $100 massage on the other. You deserve human contact and to treat yourself. Just go.

1. Read a book. Yes, sometimes we writers are so busy creating content that we forget to indulge in it. Find something that tickles your curiosity, whether it’s a Malcolm Gladwell bestseller or a book on interior design. Get your head out of the writing and into another experience for a bit.

1. Indulge in naptime. If you’re feeling like an angry baby, maybe you just need to put yourself down for a nap. Beds are the only thing more lovable than puppies and kittens so go surround yourself in one.

1. Flirt with someone. Anyone. A facebook friend, the barista at your coffee shop, your spouse. It doesn’t matter. Just give them a compliment and flirt a little. It will re-charge you and release happy brain chemicals. It’s science. I’m not even a scientist and I know that.