As attorneys and law students, the pressure to deliver high-quality work on tight deadlines is immense. Whether it’s drafting a brief, preparing for trial, or tackling a complex legal issue, getting stuck is inevitable. When that happens, don’t just sit there—try these five strategies to get unstuck and back on track.
1. Take a Walk
It’s the simplest recommendation, but if you’re reading this because you’re stuck, you should do it now. Leave your phone behind and get outside if you can, or at least into the hallway to get some air and movement. Physical activity and a change of environment can work wonders for clearing your mind and reducing the stress that might be causing your block.
Science supports this too: A study by Stanford University found that walking—whether indoors or outdoors—significantly boosts creativity. Participants in the study generated 60% more creative ideas while walking than when sitting. The act of walking itself, not just the change in environment, was the primary factor that led to increased creative thinking. (Home Page)(Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute).
2. Switch Up the Mode or Format of Your Work
If you’re working on a direct examination, consider drafting a narrative of the testimony or speaking it aloud to yourself. This can help you see the material from a different perspective. Alternatively, try handwriting instead of typing, or even sketching out a diagram of the scene you’re trying to describe. Changing how you interact with the material can spark new insights.
Science supports this too: Engaging with tasks in different formats can stimulate different areas of the brain, leading to new ways of thinking about the problem. For example, research has shown that handwriting activates areas of the brain linked to memory and cognitive processing, potentially leading to a deeper understanding and fresh perspectives. (Neuroscience News).
3. Change the Project You’re Working On
If you’re stuck, try shifting gears to another task for a bit. Completing a few smaller, separate tasks can give you a sense of accomplishment and might even spark an idea for your main project. The change in focus can refresh your mind, allowing you to return to your original task with renewed clarity.
Science supports this too: Switching tasks is a form of mental reset that can reduce cognitive fatigue and improve overall productivity. The brain benefits from shifting between different types of activities, which can enhance problem-solving abilities when you return to the original task. (PLOS)(USC Communication Management).
4. Change Your Sound Environment
If you’re listening to music, a podcast, or the TV in the background, try turning it off—or vice versa. You might not realize how much the background noise is distracting you, or you might need a different kind of auditory stimulation to think through the project more clearly. Like taking a walk or changing your environment, adjusting your sound environment can help you regain focus.
Science supports this too: Research indicates that different types of sound environments can either enhance or impair cognitive performance, depending on the task. For example, some studies suggest that background noise can improve creative problem-solving, while others indicate it can be a distraction during tasks that require focused thinking. (EurekAlert)(Illuminated Integration).
5. Chat It Out with a Colleague
Sometimes, the best way to overcome a mental block is to talk through the problem with someone else. Whether it’s a peer or a supervisor, discussing the issue can provide new insights or validate the approach you’re considering. Experienced colleagues might have faced similar challenges and can offer advice or alternative solutions.
Science supports this too: Collaborative problem-solving is a well-documented method for enhancing creativity and finding solutions to difficult problems. Discussing issues with others can lead to the discovery of novel approaches and reduce the cognitive load associated with working in isolation. (Nature)(Neuroscience News).
In Conclusion
When you’re stuck on a project, trying one or more of these strategies could be just what you need to get back on track. And as the research shows, these techniques aren’t just good advice—they’re backed by science. Next time you hit a wall, remember that a walk, a chat, or even a change in background noise might be the key to breaking through.
For more tips on enhancing your legal practice or law school experience, be sure to explore other resources on our blog. Feel free to share your own strategies in the comments below or contact us for personalized advice.
Don’t forget to subscribe below to receive articles like this & more directly to your inbox from The Advocate’s Edge!
The Advocate’s Edge 
Leave a comment