As a fellow creative freelancer, I’ve definitely run into my fair share of creative blocks over the years.
I know exactly what it’s like to stare at a blank document for hours unable to craft a solid sentence, or stuck with a white canvas on a design project for days.
If you’re feeling uninspired, unable to take your project to the next level, or are just feeling stuck, know that it’s totally and completely normal as a creative! I’ve been there, though it’s not a fun place to be 😉 But, hitting a creative block is just a part of the creative process, and here’s the best part: you won’t be stuck in it forever!
Ready to get back to your most brilliant, creative self? Here are four simple ways to overcome a creative block and get those inspirational juices flowin’!
1. Take a Break + Unplug
When you run into a creative block, your very first reaction should be to step away from your work and get outside.
While outside, pay close attention to the little details of everything around you. What scents do you smell? What sounds do you hear? How does the sun feel on your skin? Look up; What do you see? Taking an intentional and mental documentation of the beauty around you can get you back into a creative flow!
And whether you go for a walk, cycle, dance, or run, your endorphins will start releasing, boosting your happiness, reducing your stress, and refreshing your mind!
Take a break and get away from your phone and computer screen, love. Turn off your social media and email. Take in the beautiful life and nature that surrounds you. You’ll be surprised at how refreshed and re-inspired you’ll be once you return!
2. Absorb Inspirational Content
If taking a brain break and unplugging doesn’t do the trick, look to inspirational content! Reading inspirational books, listening to podcasts, skimming through magazines, and scrolling through Pinterest are great ways to overcome a creative block.
And don’t be afraid to get out of your realm! From fashion and home decor to entrepreneurship and cooking, sometimes the most random topics get my ideas flowin’.
Inspiration can be found anywhere and everywhere. Immersing yourself in inspirational content is an opportunity to awaken your senses, get you thinking outside the box, and will lead to some of your greatest ideas!
3. Look to Other Creatives
Another great creative block hack is to look to other creatives, no matter what industry they’re in!
This world is FULL of inspirational people, and I get so fueled up and inspired by hearing other entrepreneurial stories and journeys. There is so much power in hearing how others have built resilience and pursued their dreams.
Here are a few of my go-tos:
- Podcast: How I Built This with Guy Raz
- Netflix documentary: Michelle Obama’s Becoming
- Netflix documentary: Shine On with Reese Witherspoon
While looking to other creatives can be greatly beneficial, be sure to watch out for Imposter Syndrome. Remember to focus on the possibility! If it’s possible for them, why can’t it be possible for you too?
4. Evaluate Your Workspace
Whether you have an official office or you’ve converted your kitchen table into a desk, your workspace plays a key role in your creativity. No matter where you set up shop for the day, it should inspire you, be free of clutter, and have natural lighting!
Most importantly, your workspace should support and remind you of your WHY. Surround yourself with your favorite inspirational quotes, photos of your loved ones, or anything else that reminds you of why you’re pursuing this journey. That way, when you’re facing a creative block, you can look around, get inspired, and be reminded to keep pushing forward.
Designing and decorating your workspace is also a great opportunity to shop small and support local businesses! Here are a few of my favorites on Etsy:
If your workspace just isn’t cutting it for the day, don’t be afraid to switch it up and move around. A balcony, quiet garden, or an outdoor patio are great for fresh air and boosting creativity!
Overcoming a creative block is different for everyone… and the same trick may not always work. So, just remember to give yourself the time and space to work through it, while being kind to yourself and preparing for the great ideas that lie ahead.
Take a deep breath, know that this is all a part of the creative process, and get back to being your brilliant, creative self. You’ve got this, love!
