Overcoming a letter-writing block
You may well have heard of “Writer’s Block”, but have you experienced a letter writing “block”?
Often after we’ve written one, or maybe even the first few letters, it can become harder to pick up the pen again. There may be many reasons for this; circumstances affecting our available time or overloading our emotions, being a little close to the subject if you or a loved one is going through cancer treatment after you previously donated letters to others, a little imposter syndrome creeping in that questions whether it’s the right way to write what you’re thinking or feeling - especially for friends and family.
This blog is here to say, you’re not alone. And…there is a way through it. Often we need to shake up how we’re feeling about letter writing. So here’s a few ideas to try to get the ink flowing once more.
Use our words
We understand that it may be that to get started you need to “borrow” some inspiration and we’ve got the perfect letters to help.
We’ve even got a letter that you can copy directly! Whilst you may like to add your own words to this, a few little flourishes perhaps, please do feel free to use this sample letter as you wish.
Take inspiration from the greats
Sometimes the words don’t seem to want to come. That’s okay, but if you don’t want to use a sample letter, try starting with, or indeed giving your letter’s focus to, a poem or an extract from something you’ve read. This allows you to bring something new to the reader whilst showing how you feel. On World Poetry Day this year, we shared some our favourite poems to use, and if you find any others do let us know!
Tongue-tied by what if’s?
We understand that you’d like the letter to be perfect - and of course with perfection comes those nagging thoughts of is this right or wrong? So we’ve gathered together advice to help - whether you’re writing to a friend or family member, or via our Donate A Letter programme.
If you’re completely new to writing letters to those living with cancer, we suggest you read this blog first but there are lots of resources on this site - take a look at the Write to Friends and Family and Donate A Letter sections for more.