So, I'm stuck. Usually I try for two posts a week, but I can't accomplish anything tonight. I can't write, and I can't get any work done. I'm sure this has happened to you. What do you do?
I'm going to walk away from my machine and watch some James Bond (best movie I could find onDemand). I would love to hear about what you do when you find yourself here.
I've been stuck for a couple of months. Let me know if you figure out how to get out of it.
ReplyDeleteIt happens to me a lot of times. Here are some things that helped me (obviously, ymmv):
ReplyDelete1. It might help to see visual results. If you're in a long project where you're always working on the lower levels, change tasks to work towards having something tangible done.
2. Show off your work to someone (it's preferable to show off the results from 1). This is a good motivator.
3. Take a few days off, and don't touch programming. After a few days like that for me, my fingers get tingly, and I have to get back :)
4. Go to some conference. For me some entrepreneurial conferences got me pretty motivated.
5. Get committed on your work, if you aren't already so. When you commit to a date, and to some other person, there's more pressure to just sit down and get to work.
6. Usually, it's harder to just start working. So, find easy entry points.
7. Take a short time off to write something fun with pretty output. For example, a fractal, or a small physics simulation.
And the best solution (that if you're working on your own project is harder):
8. Do some pair programming.
Best of luck!
When I hit a block, that's a sign that I need to get away from technology for a bit. I'll pick up a non-technical book. Or if I have more time I'll take a bike ride. Anything to get me unplugged.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds to me less like developer's block and more like a case of simple writer's block.
ReplyDeleteYou might consider trying to post more substantial material. As I peruse your last 10 posts, there is only one that contains any real dev content.
Trivial, navel-gazing, stream-of-consciousness stuff is okay as an occasional change of pace; but when that's all you do, it's very easy to fall into a rut like this.
Sometimes you do just have to walk away and watch a movie, or read a (non-technical) book. If that doesn't work then it's probably time to hang out with some other technical people. Go to a LUG or something similar, preferably something different from your normal tech hang out.
ReplyDeleteKevin
Write down all the small parts you have until now and than go running outside..or something else that is active. Just do something else than coding or writing about coding that isn't a passive thing. Than relax for a bit and think back on the coding part.
ReplyDeleteWhat also works perfect is giving your brain the freedom to think of new things/ideas. Get a nice notebook (for example one from www.moleskine.com) and a nice pen. Each time you have ideas, write them down, make sure you always have a notebook somewhere close. You can probaly also use a phone/PDA, but I think a non-digital solution works best since a pen and paper only solution gives more creative freedom than typing words. After a while your brain will get used to this and you will make space for thinking of new inspiring and amazing things.
Easy.
ReplyDeletewww.youtube.com/.../watch
I think my name colleague's suggestion about the notebook is a real good idea. I rarely go without a notebook anywhere, if I can fit it in my pocket.I write down interesting ideas I get as soon as possible, so I can work on them.
ReplyDeleteIn my case, the best ideas are usually conceived when commuting. I usually have my laptop with me, but before I get it out, turn it on and actually type my idea I'd be getting out again. A notebook is a really simple, quick and amazingly effective tool. Too bad people nowadays are so computer inclined that they shun the ordinary pen and paper so much ;-)
Hi Sara,
ReplyDeleteI usually give some social networking a look to capture whats happening and if i have an opinion on something, or to get inspiration. I also try to keep my blog diverse, in that it's not just IT related. But then again, I ama newbie so I guess unqualified to advise.
I'd think you were the expert though, so I should be asking you - had I thought of it to post of course. You have indirectly, actually thought of a post relevant instead of some blogs that just rant on!. I'm sure people out there have had the same issue and no doubt, will offer you some sound advice and suggestions.
Happy blogging. I'll keep heading back. ;-
I have to agree with Erik. I love tech .... but my moleskine (cause im a snob like that) accompanies me everywhere. it is always in my handbag. when i have a block i just step away and do something active. i always feel up for it when i sit back down for work.
ReplyDeleteYour blog is really attractive. It is really a happy time to go through your daily update. Best wishes to my favorite writer!
ReplyDeleteYour blog is really attractive. It is really a happy time to go through your daily update. Best wishes to my favorite writer!
ReplyDeleteTime and tide wait for no man.
ReplyDeleteI often dream of that clueless closet app as well. (My first Java applet was a dress-up game.) I think it'd make a good mobile app - take pics of your clothes or draw them, catalog them, remember your favorite outfits. Bonus if it super-imposes them on you and tweets them out for ratings.
ReplyDelete