Overcoming creative block
Without breaking a sweat.
Creative block is not the end of creativity.
Have you found yourself excited about a new idea, project, article, art, or task, and shortly after you get in, you feel stuck, lost for the next move, and unsure if it was a mistake starting in the first place? That creative block can be frustrating sometimes.
I remember staring at a blank screen a few times and asking myself if I had no more creative juice left to write. This block or loss of creativity can be the outcome of several things spanning from mental health struggles like anxiety and depression, stress, imposter syndrome, perfectionism, and many more. If you find yourself procrastinating, it’s likely to play a role in creative blocks.
It's not the end of your creativity, though. It doesn't mean you're an imposter or have run out of ideas. Most of the time, your brain is letting you know it's overwhelmed and needs to breathe—somewhat like your body does when you're stressed.
My top tips for overcoming creative block.
Creative blocks apply differently to everyone, so it's not a one-size-fits-all, but these tips help me and can help you too.
Play with your creativity.
It may surprise you that sometimes when I experience creative block, I watch a video on YouTube, an episode of my favorite shows, or something fun. An attempt to bring some play or fun into my creative space helps to soften my mind and create a space for fresh ideas to flow. This is an interesting but effective approach.
Detach for mindfulness.
Stepping away and leaving the work temporarily is another way to reset, refresh, and allow your creative juices to flow again. It's okay to leave and bask in the moment, then return to go at your project. Take a walk, ride a bike, play with your pet, or go for a swim, anything other than what you're currently working on.
Change your work environment.
I’ve discovered that this sparks my creativity. Leave your usual workspace and go to that new coffee shop around the corner or beach to write or paint. Your studio isn't the only place where creative juices flow, so take that drive out of town to check out the new art gallery or museum, or make a cafe your workspace for the day and watch your creative juices flow again.
Channel fresh inspiration from other creators.
Sometimes, I go back to read older pieces I've written or pick up a book by another writer for an hour or two and discover it helps to inspire new ideas for my next piece. As an artist, watching other artists create or looking at their art can inspire you to create new art.
The beauty of being a creator is that you can draw inspiration from anything and anyone. So, don't limit yourself to what your brain or mind can come up with. Explore the work of others and get inspired.
The brain dump technique.
If you're an avid reader of Real Talk you'll know I emphasize journaling. Another fantastic way to overcome creative block is to declutter your mind with a brain dump. Write, draw, and empty your mind in a journal without thinking about grammar errors, perfect lines, or anything about perfecting it.
You can also write down what’s troubling you or the challenges you're facing and you might find connections in what you've journaled to start afresh.
Being creative is a fulfilling path but not without its challenges. The hack to keep your creative juices flowing even after applying any of these tips is to remember that it's okay to feel stuck or unsure of your next creative move. It doesn't mean you've failed or are a fraud. Your creative tank needs a cleanse and it can pump your favorite career juice again.
I’ll leave you with this song that refreshes my creativity when I feel stuck.
Enjoy.