Goodreads asked John Achor:

How do you deal with writer’s block?

John Achor I agree with many writers who don't believe there is such a thing as writer's block. Generally, as I write, one chapter leads to the next chapter leads to ... If I look at the screen and nothing is there, I figure I ran out of steam because I don't know where to take the story line next.

When that happens, I take a break to think about the plot and where it needs to go. My next step is to outline two or three chapters ahead to get the juices going. Most of the time I do not outline the plot ahead.

I do like to have an outline of the story, but for the most part I outline behind my writing. Recently, the light bulb came on and I realized I had missed a great scene that would toss a big stumbling block in front of my protagonist. Having that "behind" outline made it easier to locate the spot where that scene could be inserted -- without a lot of research.

To outline or not to outline - try each and go with what works best for you.

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