What to Do When the Creative Block Won’t Budge
There are very few things that all creative minds have in common. We all search for new ways of seeing the world. We’re visionaries. And, inevitably, our creativity runs out.
In my own life, I find myself low on ideas precisely when I need them most. Looming deadlines, mounting pressure, and a phone that seemingly won’t stop pinging with notifications can all add up to a writer that is plum out of words.
To be sure, the usual advice can help. A walk outside in the fresh air and some light stretching have certainly helped to get my brain going in the past. But, other times, it’s not enough. When the common tricks don’t work, I have a few more ideas that help me get back on track.
Talk to Someone that Doesn’t Care about What You’re Making
I am a firm believer that other people are the best source of inspiration. However, if you choose to spend the time away from work with people who also make what you make, you may find yourself the recipient of unwanted, or even unhelpful, advice.
When your creativity runs dry, spend some time with people who support you, but who work in a different field, or have no idea what project you’re working on. Talking with them can help turn your mind to other things, and may even spark a discussion that returns some of your innovative spirit.
Do Nothing
It’s a cycle that nearly everyone is familiar with: creative block comes with frustration, and frustration comes with anxiety. Anxiety breeds more frustration, which further hinders the creative process.
In times like these, you may just need a full stop. If meditation is your jam, go ahead and do that. If you’re new to the experience of doing nothing, the process is pretty simple:
Find an empty room.
Put yourself in a comfortable position in a chair or on the floor.
Close your eyes, or locate a fixed point at which you can stare for a long period of time.
Hold that pose for 10-15 minutes.
During this time, you may find yourself getting distracted by your own thoughts. You might feel stressed or angry that you’re not doing work. Let those thoughts come; then, let them go. Your mind will appreciate the break from stimuli, however brief it may be.
Make Something Else
Just because you’ve run out of inspiration in your chosen craft, that doesn’t mean that you’ve lost all ability to make. Try out a new recipe, journal about your personal life, or start doodling on the nearest sticky note. Let your brain toy with new textures and materials, and you may be pleasantly surprised at what comes of the experience.
Creative block is a state with which every artist is familiar. When the going gets rough, I encourage you to experiment with some less conventional strategies. I can’t wait to see what you make when you get back to it!