How to get rid of mental Block as a web developer?
Published: 2023-04-09 15:41:22

Are you a web developer struggling with a pesky mental block that's getting in the way of your creativity and productivity? Don't worry, we've all been there! In this article by me (a developer who probably gets the highest number of mental blocks per week), we'll discuss some fun and effective ways to shake off that mental block and get back into the groove of coding. So, grab a cup of coffee and let's get started!

## 1. Take a break & ....

Sometimes, the best way to overcome a mental block is to take a break. It might seem counterintuitive to step away from your work when you're feeling stuck, but often a change of scenery or a few minutes of downtime can do wonders for your creativity. As a web developer, I've encountered my fair share of mental blocks, especially when working with tricky APIs like the Meta Graph API. Let's just say that the developers behind Meta Graph API have received some less-than-flattering feedback from me. But when I find myself stuck and frustrated, I've discovered a simple and effective solution: **_Eminem_**.
![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/oh8qtykp6h4r3sf3ount.jpg)
So, take a break! Step away from your computer, go outside for some _fresh air_, or do something completely unrelated to coding. Taking a break can give your mind a chance to reset and come back with a fresh perspective.

## 2. Connect with your peers

Collaboration and seeking help are essential ways to overcome a mental block. As a web developer, you are part of a vast and supportive community that can help you solve coding mental blocks. You can collaborate with other developers, seek help through online communities, or engage in coding forums. Such collaboration not only helps you solve coding problems but also offers learning opportunities and builds new connections. Don't hesitate to ask for help the next time you feel stuck. **_The developer community is always willing to lend a hand._**
![Person with his peers helping him in a problem](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/xhlg2bm7kpgcpsrxfkqj.jpg)
Personally, I've found that asking for help from my team is the most effective way to overcome a mental block as a web developer. Simply inviting a colleague to join me at my desk and help me work through the problem can make all the difference. However, collaboration doesn't have to be limited to your immediate team. You can also seek help from the larger developer community through online forums, Stack-overflow, Slack channels, and social media groups. By reaching out and asking for help, you can tap into a wealth of knowledge and expertise to help you get unstuck and back on track.

## 3. Breaking the problems into smaller sub-problems

As a web developer, it's common to face `complex coding problems` that can seem overwhelming. When you're feeling stuck, one effective way to overcome mental blocks is to break the problem down into smaller parts.

Start by identifying the smallest possible task you can complete that will help move you closer to solving the larger problem. Once you've completed that task, move on to the next smallest task, and so on, until you've solved the problem as a whole.
![How to break down to smaller problems](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/mip3f41zd77ihy8fpw16.jpg)
Breaking the problem into smaller parts can help you feel less overwhelmed and more in control. Plus, each completed task can give you a sense of accomplishment and momentum, which can help motivate you to keep going.

So, the next time you're facing a complex coding problem, try breaking it down into smaller parts. **_By tackling the problem one step at a time, you can overcome mental blocks and solve even the most challenging coding problems._**

## 4. Try out a different approach

Think of it as a game of chess. If you keep making the same moves, your opponent will see through your strategy and you'll be left in a stalemate. But, if you switch up your game plan, you might just catch your opponent off guard and score a win.

The same goes for coding problems. If you've been banging your head against the wall trying to solve a front-end issue, try switching gears and focusing on the back-end.

## 5. Take a walk in NATURE

Sometimes, a quick stroll outside in the beauty of nature can be just what you need to clear your mind and find inspiration. Research has shown that spending time in nature can help reduce stress levels, boost creativity, and improve cognitive function. So, instead of banging your head against your desk, consider taking a break and going for a walk in the park or a nearby nature trail. You may find that a change of scenery is exactly what you need to overcome your mental block and find the solution to your coding problem.
![Happy programmer walking in nature](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/bsz1b7nn4k3swm6l7jy2.jpg)

## Conclusion

As we conclude, it's essential to understand that there's no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to overcoming mental blocks in web development. Each developer has their unique approach that helps them tackle these blocks and bring out their creative side.

From taking a break to jamming out to Eminem or collaborating with team members, there are various methods that developers use to overcome mental blocks. Some even take the unconventional route by taking a walk in nature, seeking inspiration from art, or meditating.

The key is to be patient, persistent, and open to new ideas. Don't hesitate to try out different methods until you find the one that resonates with you. Remember, mental blocks are a natural part of the creative process, and even the most successful developers face them from time to time.

So, embrace your unique approach and keep pushing forward until you find the perfect solution that works for you.
And as always, Happy Coding!