It really does happen to all of us at one time or another. As grant writers, writing is what we do best. But sometimes we just can’t seem to get the mojo to make the words appear on those very blank sheets of a grant application. To combat these demons, here are 3 tried and true tips to make it over the hurdle on your way to victory.
Often, our lack of concentration or direction hinges on several common factors including a lack of sufficient information or concrete statistics from the nonprofit for who we’re writing the grant, a lack of understanding of what the application is asking for and a lack of a clear sense of purpose for what the end result of the project should be. Once all of these are in place, our writing seems to flow much smoother.
To combat these demons, we must take a radical approach – and step away from the computer! Yep, in order to get that mojo back dig a little more thoroughly on the front end so that your end product will be the result you intended.
Based on extremely scientific research, “they” say that grant writing consists of 80% planning and only 20% writing. I’m not sure who “they” are but I’m pretty sure “they” were wearing white lab coats when “they” made this discovery. In any event, I agree. So, here’s what to do when faced with writer’s block:
First, understand that just like a cake requires all the right ingredients to make it yummy, so does a grant application require all the right elements to engage the grant reviewer. It may be that your application is dry without enough fact-based evidence to prove why this money should be granted to you. Or, it could be that it lacks personality – there’s no face or mental picture to go with all of these facts. Only the nonprofit can provide this type of information. Whether you’re the grant writer for the organization or a consultant, it would be wise to visit with program folks actually engaging with clients one-on-one to get a better understanding of how things work and what client’s needs are. This allows you to get to know more intimately who you’re trying to assist and also gives you the mental picture needed to convey the importance of this project to the funder.
Second, do you have a complete understanding of what the application is asking? Sometimes it appears that we’re writing the same information over and over again and we’re confused about what exactly needs to go into that space staring back at us. When this happens, take the time to read the questions thoroughly looking for differences between the questions. This will often clear up any confusion. It’s also perfectly acceptable to call the grantor and ask for clarification. (Bonus – it also gives you the opportunity to actually talk with someone and tell them a little bit about your organization.)
Third, if you’re not even sure about why you’re writing this grant, take time to find out. Again, as an organizational grant writer or a consultant, we’re sometimes left out of the loop about what the overall picture is supposed to look like. We’ll just be asked to write the application without fully understanding why. Don’t hesitate then to go back to the powers that be and ask for a description of what the end result should look like. Once you have an understanding, writing just seems to flow more smoothly.
Finally, as grant writers we’re constantly faced with looming deadlines often resulting in frazzled nerves, lack of sleep and poor nutrition. Let’s face it, our bodies must be taking a beating when we’re downing cups of coffee at 3 a.m. snacking on Ritz Bits. (I always have plenty of those around with my four year old.) Give yourself a break! If the words just aren’t coming to you, don’t agonize over it. Take a nap, go for a walk or zone out in front of the t.v. If you’ll give yourself a mental break, you’ll often find that a refresher was all you needed.
Have more suggestions for overcoming writer’s block? I’d love to hear them! Visit here to leave your comments. Thanks!
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