Top Tips for Beating a Writing Slump

Why We Get Stuck—and What It Really Means

Slumps happen. I’ve seen them strike new writers, MFA graduates, and published authors. You sit down, ready to write, but nothing clicks. It’s not laziness. It’s not fear. Most of the time, it’s confusion. Something in the story isn’t working, and it slows everything down.

I’ve worked with writers for over thirty years. I’ve developed screenplays for Disney and Fox, coached novelists, and led private sessions through Story Summit. And I can tell you—writing slumps don’t mean you’re not a writer. They just mean you need better tools.

You don’t push through slumps with willpower alone. You move through them by solving the story problem that’s causing the stall. Once the issue becomes clear, the writing flows again.

What Actually Helps Writers Move Forward

Writers often ask me what they should do when they’re stuck. Some try timers or free-writing, and while those can help, they don’t fix the core issue. If the foundation of the story is shaky, no trick will keep you writing consistently.

That’s why I focus on tools. I created my Beat Sheet to help writers organize their stories scene by scene. I’ve used it to shape pitches, polish screenplays, and coach both seasoned professionals and beginners. The moment you understand what your story really needs, the panic drops away.

When I teach, I don’t lecture on theory. I show how to fix the exact problem that’s keeping your story from moving. Whether you’re writing a novel, memoir, or screenplay, I want you to have something you can use immediately—tools that help you move forward with purpose.

Structure Isn’t Restriction—It’s Support

Writers sometimes think structure will limit their creativity. I get it. But I’ve learned—and taught—that structure is what gives your creativity room to breathe. It helps you make choices instead of guesses.

When I started shaping stories for studios like Tri-Star and HBO, I had to deliver scripts that held together. Structure wasn’t optional—it was essential. But structure doesn’t mean formula. It means understanding where your story is going and why.

In my writing workshops for high school students or women, I help writers develop that understanding. We look at what your story needs: turning points, tension, stakes. Not to box you in—but to guide your voice with clarity. I’ve seen this approach work for screenwriters, memoirists, and young writers still learning the basics.

A strong structure helps you get through the middle, not just start and finish. It makes editing easier and gives you confidence in every scene you write.

How My Writing Workshops Empower Women and Teens

I’ve always believed in the power of personal voice. That’s why I created writing workshops that go beyond teaching craft. These workshops are designed to help you trust your own story.

With women, I’ve seen firsthand how many come in unsure if their idea is “good enough.” After we work through the beats of their story and shape the structure, something changes. They leave with a clearer draft—and a whole lot more confidence. These sessions are filled with honest feedback and deep support. No fluff. Just growth.

With teens, I bring the same respect and tools. I created the Kids Talk Story curriculum because I wanted young writers to understand that their stories matter. In my writing workshops, we don’t just “have fun with words.” We explore real storytelling fundamentals—just in a way that connects with them.

Both groups deserve the same thing: tools that work and support that’s real. Whether it’s a woman picking up the pen after years away, or a teenager trying to find their voice, I meet them where they are.

The Bottom Line

I’ve spent my career developing stories and supporting writers. I co-founded All Girl Productions with Bette Midler and Bonnie Bruckheimer, and together we helped bring Beaches to life. But some of my most rewarding work has come through teaching. I love helping writers find clarity, especially when they’ve hit a wall.

If you’re in a slump, you’re not alone—and you’re not doing it wrong. Sometimes you just need a new way to see the story. That’s where my workshops and coaching come in. Whether you’re working on a screenplay, novel, or short story, I’ll help you find the shape of your story—and the way forward.

My writing workshops for women and high school students aren’t about just writing more. They’re about writing better, with purpose and confidence. I believe every writer deserves tools that work and guidance that makes sense. And that’s exactly what I offer.

FAQs

1. How do your workshops help with writer’s block?

I help writers identify the root problem in their story. Once the story issues are addressed, the block usually lifts on its own.

2. Are the writing workshops for women open to beginners?
Yes. Many of the women I work with are either returning to writing or starting fresh. You’ll learn the basics of structure in a supportive space.

3. What do teens learn in your writing workshops for high school students?
They learn the same storytelling tools I teach adults—adapted to fit their age and experience level. These workshops build real writing skills.

4. What is the Beat Sheet, and do I need experience to use it?
The Beat Sheet is a tool I developed to help writers map out their story. You don’t need prior experience. I will guide you through it step by step.

5. Can I work with you privately instead of a group setting?
Absolutely. I offer one-on-one coaching sessions tailored to your specific story and goals.