Creative Block is a condition in which a creator can't deliver new work or encounters uncooperative state of mind that lacks flow of innovative ideas. “What if I don’t make it big?” “What if I’m incompetent for this task?” “What if people don’t find my pieces relatable?”. These “what ifs” often arise while going through a stage of stagnation in your creative journey.
Every now and then we hear people discussing about not being able to produce quality content pieces or even a decent outcome. But why is it so common that every other person faces this same obstacle over and over again? Some major factors contributing to a creative block can be:
1. Lack of Confidence:
When you’re questioning yourself before taking each step, it is a clear sign of self-doubt and lack of confidence. While you’re contemplating each thought that arrives, you also get stuck in the cycle of procrastination. Since you don’t feel “good enough”, you’re bound to get trapped and yield no results.
2. Unclear Purpose:
If you aren’t aware of the “why” of your project, how will you deliver results? Having a purpose or a concrete reason to work simply gives you a push. Not only does it give you a direction but also increases the chances of staying motivated.
3. Perfectionism:
If you have a fetish for being perfect in every bit that you do, a creative field might not be apt for you. What might be perfect to you, might be flawed to someone else, and vice-versa. Chasing perfection is unrealistic and might push you into a pit of darkness.
Now that we’ve addressed some of the reasons that contribute to a creative block, let’s talk about some easy ways to deal with one.
1. Take a break:
Yes! This had to be the first point here. Can you count the number of times you felt guilty for taking a break, and that too for just maintaining your sanity?! No, right? Looking at all those “hustling” “Motivating” quotes on social media, feeling this way is pretty obvious. But don’t let them fool you. The ones who are writing those might be able to create a balance in life, at least we hope. While you are experiencing constant productivity guilt. Have that “me time”, explore some new hobbies, try to relax, meditate and do all those good things for yourself.
Having a little dose of “Monday motivation” is good, but don’t let it overpower you. Understand and draw your boundaries.
2. Revamp Your Workspace:
No matter how materialistic or shallow this may seem to some of you, it REALLY WORKS!! Move your work desk to a different spot, declutter your drawers, add some fun colours, or some creative posters if you may like. There are a bunch of videos and inspiration online to get quirky ideas to redesign your workspace on your own. The very famous DIY videos will be your best friend in this process.
Your workspace is where all the magic happens, it deserves a little attention, right? Try this one and you might feel refreshed and rejuvenated.
3. Keep a Journal:
Having a journal handy at all times is so underestimated. Every productivity coach suggests this one, and we agree 100 percent! You can’t even imagine how many cool ideas can be a result of just random scribbling on the paper. Just keep a diary that can fit into your bag, so you can carry it around and just add anything you feel might be of use in the near, or even far future.
4. Digital Detox:
The amount of information we are consuming every second is extremely unhealthy. Every time when you refresh that Instagram feed, somebody is partying, or traveling, or any other thing that would make their life “LIT” and yours “boring”. But let’s get real, social media is just an outcome of a zillion filters, and comparing your behind-the-scenes with their social media feed is so NOT cool. Turn those gadgets off and take a walk. Experience real things. Spend some time with yourself, your family, and friends.
5. Don’t Be Hard on Yourself:
YOU are all that you have. Don’t let anything or anybody take that away from you. Don’t force yourself to get innovative ideas. That’s simply the worst way to get a solution to a creative block. Try not to associate your worth with your levels of creativity/work. Your work is just a part of your life. Try to keep it that way.
So, if you have ever faced a creative block, do share you experiences in the comments below and also tell us what worked for you to overcome it. Also don't forget to share it with your friends and family who might be in a creative field and might need to read this.