contemplation practice

Listening to the Block

10 · 15 min4 steps

Before you begin

Sit near the stalled work but do not open it yet. Bring curiosity instead of a whip.

The practice, step by step — read it all first if you like

  1. Name it

    Describe the block factually: when it started, what it sits on.

    about 120 seconds

  2. Ask it

    Ask the block, as if it were a tired employee: what are you protecting? What are you waiting for?

    about 180 seconds

  3. Listen

    Receive whatever surfaces — fear of judgement, wrong turn in the work, simple exhaustion — without arguing.

    about 180 seconds

  4. One response

    Choose one kind response: rest, a smaller next piece, a change of direction, or showing it to a friendly eye.

    about 90 seconds

Accessibility

Works as journalling or silent reflection, in any medium.

How long do you have?

Or read through it quietly above, at your own pace.