Goodreads asked Phil Cain:

How do you deal with writer’s block?

Phil Cain I am not sure if writer's block is quite the same affliction for non-fiction as it is for fiction. But, still, I do occasionally find it hard to get going. I persist for a while, but try not to worry about it too much, and turn to something else. Things always take a certain amount of time to figure out and it doesn't necessarily happen on cue. Thankfully, most projects tend to develop in several areas at the same time, so there's always something else to do. There's research to be read or an old lead to chase. I also find that getting away from the desk is often the most productive thing I can do. Walking in the woods, swimming, something visual, music, anything non-verbal or non-analytical helps. And, of course, meeting people helps too. Writing is a solitary business and you can get stale. Your brain needs rest and it also works on problems in the background, so there's no need to worry about sitting in front of a keyboard. Sometimes it has helped to step away from a larger projects, like my book, for weeks or months at a time. To keep things fresh from day to day I generally try to make my days a mix of rest and concentrated work, and to keep them fairly short. It doesn't usually help to push beyond a certain point. If you push too hard you risk losing enthusiasm, which won't help at all. It is better to feel like you still have a bit left at the end of the day, perhaps even feeling a little unsatisfied. The key to success probably lies in trying again tomorrow.

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