What do you do when you're in a creative rut? When you find yourself there, it can feel impossible getting out. We've all been stuck there, though. As quickly as inspiration can appear, it can just as easily fade. But that means it can just as easily return! Creativity certainly is one of those things that ebbs and flows. No matter how creative of an individual you are, blocks happen, but there are many ways to break through it.
1. Step Away
Often times when a creative block comes on, it can be the result of fatigue. Just like every aspect of life, it is important to have balance and know when to rest. Creativity is a muscle. While it is important to work it, it is equally as important to recover and recharge in order to bring your best effort in the future.
2. Indulge In a Hobby
Even if that creative thing is a hobby, pick up something else that doesn't require the same type of energy. Just for fun! One of my favorite hobbies is reading. In a sense, it provides a different sort of break and escape.
3. Surround Yourself With Inspiration
Perhaps this is a no brainer, but when feeling creatively stifled, surround yourself with inspiration! Collect things that inspire you. Whether it's books or art, clothing or decor, or even just pinning pins to your favorite Pinterest boards. There are numerous sources of inspiration around.
4. Stay Offline
Contrary to the point of above, I've found when in a creative slump it's important to limit social media and internet use. While it is a great source of inspiration, it can reach a point of being counterproductive. Scrolling can soon lead to mindless browsing and can eventually lead to being overwhelmed by inspiration and potentially comparison.
5. Go Outside
There's just something about being outdoors that is so grounding. It is the ideal place to recharge. Go for a walk, enjoy a pastime, and simply just be. One of my favorite creative exercises is watercolor painting what I see in nature, and no doubt that activity could be applied to many creative endeavors!
6. Show Up
In some cases it's makes sense to try and push through a block. To show up and create regardless of the outcome. No pressure. No perfect way. Just effort and action. Just doing in some cases is enough to break through a block.
7. Accept It
Sometimes the thing to do is to just ride the wave rather than resist it. It's ok to find yourself in a creative rut and it's ok to embrace it. Be patient with yourself. Ruts eventually turn into rolling fields.
Bonus!
If you're anything like me, it's easy to get bogged down by too many ideas. The creativity can be a bit consuming to the point where you can't figure out where to begin. Take time to organize your thoughts and process. Sometimes this audit can be enough of a reset to get out of a rut!
What do you do to get out of a creative rut?
Sincerely,
I think it's so important to take some out and recharge and when stuck in a rut!
ReplyDeleteChloe X https://www.chloepryce.com/