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Overcoming Your Creative Block

The clock is ticking. You’re staring at your screen, notepad, whiteboard, and…nothing happens. Your boss just put you in charge of an entirely new project, to be presented tomorrow in front of everyone, and the pressure is really starting to sink in. But you woke up late, ran out of time for breakfast, just realized you forgot to feed your dog, your panic sweat is starting to show through, and your mom keeps texting you about that family dinner tonight. 
No matter how hard you try, no matter the tricks you normally use, nothing creative is coming out of your brain.
Creative Block is real and has some seriously nasty timing. As a creative professional, I have been down this road more times than I can count. In my early years as a marketer, before I knew how to overcome Creative Block, I’d end up submitting subpar projects. DON’T BE LIKE THE OLD ME!

Tips to help you get out of your funk:

  1. Eliminate Distractions
  • Yes, you can set your phone to Do Not Disturb, but if it would ease your mind to just make a 2 minute phone call or send a quick text, then do it! 
  • I am a huge fan of noise cancelling headphones, especially in a loud work environment (open-floor concept offices, coffee shops, home with kids, etc.).
  1. Give It a Rest!
  • If you have the time, take a self-care day or book a vacation. If you can only spare a few minutes, go on a walk to find fresh air and sunshine—magic is found with fresh air and sunshine.
  • Is your project using more of your brain than your hands? It can seem odd at first, but in this situation, it can be extremely fulfilling to change things up and work with your hands for a bit. My favorite go-tos are gardening or mowing the lawn. If you can’t see the fruit of your labor with your daily brain activities, find some with your hands!
  • Intentionally stop working until a scheduled time—possibly days, weeks, or months from now.
  1. Accept the Fear
  • Fear and anxiety cause real destruction in the creative world. Whether it is fear of criticism, disappointing others, public speaking, or the classic Imposter Syndrome, fear is a constant in all creative professionals. Choosing to accept the fear for what it is, allowing it to be in the room with you but not control your decision making, will help you achieve your goals.
  1. Seek Fresh Motivators
  • Have you lost your motivation? When was the last time you found joy in your project or felt excited to get to work? If you are struggling with motivation, begin by thinking about what motivates you, both internally and externally, and seek new ways to get your “umph” back!
  1. Get Outside Perspective
  • Talking to someone always helps. The important thing to remember is who you choose to talk to. Good outside perspective comes from someone who isn’t just a yes-person, nor overly negative. You want a person who is qualified to speak to your situation—someone familiar with Creative Block.
  • There are times you won’t know of this “perfect” person. In this case, don’t be afraid to reach out to a coach or mentor. Life brings unique situations and there is nothing wrong with finding help.

Creativity is born from vulnerability—don’t be afraid to take advantage of your Creative Block and work on yourself. I can’t wait to see the beauty that forms.