Star Trek Writing Advice – 10 Tips to Overcome Writer’s Block

For avid writers, conquering writer’s block can be a daunting challenge. In this guide, we offer 10 valuable tips to help you embark on a journey with LISP Professor Dr. Fritz von Stossenbaum Alkensaltzer, Ph.D., especially tailored for Star Trek enthusiasts. Read on to discover the strategies we use to keep the creative juices flowing.

Music is often touted as a source of inspiration. It possesses the unique ability to transport us through time, evoke emotions, and expose us to uncharted moments. Whether it’s lyrical tunes narrating epic battles with machine overlords or instrumental melodies of classic compositions, your favourite Spotify playlist can be your guiding star when you’re grappling with a blank page.

Collaborative writing is a team effort, and your writing comrades can be invaluable allies when you encounter writer’s block. Don’t hesitate to ask for their assistance when you’re uncertain about your next move. Discuss ideas for quick dialogues at the replicator or exchange gossip in the turbo-lift heading to the bridge—any interaction can ignite your creative spark.

Writing prompts offer an excellent way to sidestep the daunting task of determining what to write. Instead, focus on how to craft your story. Our Inspiration Station series will feature exclusive writing prompts to infuse intriguing twists into your narrative. Even if you use a prompt unrelated to your current work, it’s a step towards vanquishing writer’s block.

Since our passion lies in writing for beloved shows, why not rekindle your inspiration by watching a select episode or two from the series that brought you here? Be cautious not to plunge into a full Dominion War rewatch, but select episodes aligned with your current plot can provide fresh creative fuel. Alternatively, indulging in a favourite Star Trek film, such as “First Contact,” can jumpstart your imagination.

Your writing needn’t always revolve around the central character. Expanding your perspective by introducing a character from a different department can breathe new life into your narrative. This approach also opens doors for helping your fellow writers when they encounter their own inspiration hurdles.

A portable notebook is a writer’s best friend; you never know when inspiration will strike. Whether it’s a name you hear, a news story you read, an inspiring image, or a wandering thought, jot it down. When you need inspiration, your trusty notebook will be your wellspring of ideas.

Collaborative writing means you’re not alone in your creative endeavour. Dive into past posts, revisit your character’s backstory, and explore your fellow writers’ character biographies. Don’t stop there—pick up a Star Trek novel or any other literary work. Reading diversely allows you to gain fresh perspectives on the art of writing.

Pictures, like music, can evoke emotions and spark creativity. A captivating image can tell a story in a thousand words, making it an excellent foundation for your next post. Seek out unique and unconventional visuals, as they can inspire innovative thinking and enhance your creativity.

Overthinking and incessant self-editing can slow down your writing progress. Combat this by setting clear goals with time limits. Challenge yourself to write a specific word count within a defined timeframe, such as 400 words in the next fifteen minutes. Achieving these goals can boost your confidence and motivation.

Ultimately, the greatest obstacle in writing is often self-doubt. Don’t fret over the quality of your writing; instead, start typing. Once your fingers find their rhythm, the rest will follow. Writing is a skill that improves with practice, so keep at it.

As a bonus, we invite you to share your personal tips for finding inspiration in the comments below or on the fleet’s discord. Join us every Monday for more insights and strategies from Lessons In Superior Prose!

Prof. Dr. Fritz von Stossenbaum Alkensaltzer, PhD
L.I.S.P. Professor

“You never have to change anything you got up in the middle of the night to write.”

Saul Bellow