Dealing with creative block
Recently I have been struggling to create - making art feels forced and I feel stuck creatively. I have always used art as a way to connect with myself and heal; it’s my favorite form of therapy. Not being able to express my emotions in the way that usually feels most natural is frustrating. So, I went to twitter and asked other creators in the space how they deal with creative block and got an overwhelming number of helpful responses:
The response that I resonated with the most is the idea that creative block isn’t real - it’s the result of over-thinking. As an artist, I believe that creating is about connecting with your inner-child, and this means creating intuitively in the moment. I rarely have a plan or idea when I start creating - I just allow myself to create freely as a child would. I try not to judge myself or the art during the process. And that is why I think I’m struggling so much right now - I’m thinking too much about the final result instead of allowing myself to be present during the process. Many of the responses I received are great ways to connect with your inner-child and let go of the pressures of creating:
Take a Break - creating shouldn’t feel forced (although it can be hard when it’s your full-time job). Take some time doing something completely unrelated to creating.
Get out into nature and take a break from technology.
Get inspired by watching movies, tv shows, music videos, etc.
Listen to music. Especially songs you feel deeply connected to. My favorite band is Current Joys and listening to them brings me back to a certain time in my life. Nostalgia and returning to certain moments and emotions puts me in the mood to create.
Read a new book or an old favorite - I love re-reading The Alchemist, it always makes me feel inspired and more connected.
some people responded with these book recommendations: The War of Art by Steven Pressfield and The Creative Habit by Twyla Tharp
Journal your thoughts / why you feel stuck creatively and get to the root of what’s causing it - then use that as inspiration to create art.
Experiment and try creating in a different medium than usual. For example, if you’re a painter, spend some time writing a poem or drawing with crayons.
Work through the creative block by just creating - get all the bad ideas out until you reach the good ones.
Talk to other artists. Or anyone in your life that inspires you.
Meditate. Focus on your breathing.
Go on a walk around your neighborhood. Observe your surroundings and enjoy being present.
Clean and organize your space. Get rid of clutter. This helps me to think more clearly and feel less anxious.
Do a chore you’ve been putting off. Allow your thoughts to wander.
Take time to reflect on all that you have created so far. Show yourself love and appreciation.
Gratitude journal.
These recommendations have helped me so much already, and I know I’ll return to this list the next time I struggle to create.