We all know how hard it can be to switch on our creativity when we have so many things to think about in our daily lives.
And I'm not just talking about the business side of what we do. Rarely are any of us simply running a creative business: we are also parents, siblings, friends, employees or carers – not to mention regular, relentless day-to-day chores.
Creative block can often be caused by too much workload, stress, or simply lack of motivation.
Here are a few simple techniques to help you conquer creative block.
Do something completely different – Maybe if the creative juices aren't flowing then you just need to trake a step back and do something completely different.
Go for a walk, cook up a feast, do some non-creative business work or even go play paintball!
Your brain may need a little rest so it is important to grant that when needed. Make sure you keep it guilt-free though – you have to actually switch off.
Learn to work when you aren't feeling inspired – Sometimes just going through the motions is all we need to get things kick-started.
So head to your workspace and just start. Pick up whatever you are working on, set yourself a short time frame to avoid frustration, and more likely than not you will be back in the swing of things before you know it.
Embrace block as part of the process – I don't actually know a single creative person who hasn't faced creative block.
Keep in mind that is is part of what you do. Knowing its there, knowing how to best deal with it, and being aware that it will pass can actually help clear the block quicker. If there are tears, who cares? Make a cup of tea, take some time out and just know it is part of the process.
We all knew when starting our creative business that it wasn't going to be a walk in the park. This quote sums it up perfectly!
Let your imagination run wild – Do something for you. Make art. Scribble, experiment, make mess, involve friends or the kids and just have a good old silly time!
This is like a day out for your creativity. Feed it what it needs so that it can continue to grow and flourish.
Talk about it – Open up about how you are feeling.
Find someone willing to sit and listen, write it down, or even talk to it. Yes that's right, talk to your creativity block!
Why is it there? What is stopping you from being your incredible wonderful creative self that you know is there? Ask these questions out loud or on paper and then answer them.
It may sound a little silly but it may just help you find your block and begin the process of removing it.
Whatever you decide to do don't let a creative block get the best of you.
We all know we can work through it. It could take hours or it could take days, even longer in some instances!
Look back at previous blocks to learn from the past, be aware of when you are in a creative block so you can deal with it effectively, and prepare for future blocks by staying strong and keeping positive.