Thus far, I’ve never really been a sufferer of writer’s block. No, my main hangups could be better described as your garden-variety procrastination and mild resistance (blowing off writing to clean the house, clear out my inbox, watch the barking cat video one more time, etc.). But, I’m never one to pass up any opportunity to learn something about my chosen craft, especially from a source I can count on for accessible, down-and-dirty, practical, and extremely useful content. That source is Michael Rogan. (He’s also one of the most qualified human beings on the planet to hash out the niceties of writer’s block – more on this below.)

Michael is the Head Hancho Publisher over at ScriptBully, a writing consultation company that specializes in cutting straight to the chase in assisting screenwriters at every level move their careers forward (or at least nudge ’em out of a standstill). They’ve got it all – online courses, seminars, consultation services, and plenty of sweet books. The resources tackle a wide range of screenwriting angles, from devising and refining your initial idea for a movie, to the pure nuts-and-bolts formatting of the script.

So, I was excited to hear about the newest installment, How to Kick Writer’s Block in the @$%, and jumped at the chance to pick up a copy.  As usual, this volume doesn’t disappoint.

Michael expounds in his usual style of keeping it terse and to-the-point, but interlacing the material with surprising depth. There are also plenty of humorous quips along the way, keeping it light and enjoyable. He starts with a brief overview of the physiological/ psychological causes of writer’s block, without getting overly technical and losing the reader. Then, we’re off to the races…

What’s offered is a wealth of tools to throw in the box, for aspects such as maintaining mental focus, keeping a diligent writing schedule, maximizing your output, seeing projects through to the end, and most importantly – enjoying the process!

I’m new to these exercises, but I can tell you I’ve already incorporated a few of them (one of which is being accomplished right now) and I believe they’ll have a great impact, not only on my results, but on my writing experience overall. They’re simple, immediately integrable, and the benefits are often readily apparent. They consist of creating the optimum physical, mental, emotional, and logistical conditions to elevate your writing workflow. Nothing is crammed down your throat. The option is left entirely to you to pick, choose, and customize the tips to suit your purposes.

Last, and possibly least, depending on your outlook; Michael is especially credible on this issue, having suffered through a six-year bout with writer’s block. As an epilogue, he includes the excruciating blow-by-blow account of how it happened and how he came out a professional writer on the other side. It’s a fascinating and, for me, oddly comforting story that really puts things into perspective.

If you’re a writer of any variety (this isn’t only for the “screen-types”), this book will serve as an enjoyable read and invaluable resource. You will certainly not regret picking it up. And you can’t beat the price!