Best Practices to Overcome Creative Block
We’ve all been there before. You have a big, exciting project to prepare for. There’s a due date, and an allotted time frame to get it done, but nothing. You can’t think of where to begin, you’re stuck somewhere in the middle or maybe you’re down to the final detail but can’t get past that last hurdle. The ideas you usually have are just not coming to you. This is called creative block, and it can happen to anyone at any time. It’s extremely common, and as designers, we experience it often. The best thing to do is not to panic, take a deep breath and try some of the techniques below.
You can apply these tips to all types of work, not just design. Do you have a proposal to put together, but can’t find the strategy? Is there a term paper, or even an email, to write but don’t know where to begin? Do you have a meeting, but can’t seem to collect your thoughts? You just might have creative block.
Here are some of the best practices to overcome your creative block:
Change Your Surrounding
Sometimes, all we might need is a little change of scenery to get a spark of inspiration. Try bringing your work to another area of your house or office. Coffee shops can be great place to work and serve as an excuse to get out of the house. If you’re able to, try working outside for a bit.
Disconnect & Unplug
In this day and age, it can be hard to spend time away from our devices. Let’s admit it, a lot of us are hooked to our phones and the sweet pull of social media is just a few clicks away. These tools are amazing, but can be a big distraction, especially if an assignment is due. Try plugging your phone in another room or not logging in until your work is done. This one could be tough, but we could all use some time away from our screens.
Listen to Music
Other art forms may be inspiring for the projects we are working on. Music has the ability to convey many emotions, but it also can be a great motivator. It can also help distract from the noise, or lack thereof, in the office. Pandora and Spotify are great tools for listening to music and creating playlists. If lyrics are too distracting, try instrumental or classical music.
Bring in Another Person
You might feel stuck, but it’s possible you are finished and you don’t know it. Try showing a friend or colleague what you’re working on. Their feedback might lead you to the idea you have been waiting for, or their comments might help you realize that you’re done and overthinking things. Another set of eyes can be very beneficial.
Get Some Rest
If your brain is feeling foggy, maybe all you need is to catch up on some rest. Our time is important and there is only so much in a day to get something done, but be careful not to overwork yourself. It’s important to take care of your mind. If possible, try taking a nap or even a long break. A well-rested individual will be more effective than a tired one.
How do you overcome your creative block? Tweet us @DEVENEYMKTG and let us know.
You can apply these tips to all types of work, not just design. Do you have a proposal to put together, but can’t find the strategy? Is there a term paper, or even an email, to write but don’t know where to begin? Do you have a meeting, but can’t seem to collect your thoughts? You just might have creative block.
Here are some of the best practices to overcome your creative block:
Change Your Surrounding
Sometimes, all we might need is a little change of scenery to get a spark of inspiration. Try bringing your work to another area of your house or office. Coffee shops can be great place to work and serve as an excuse to get out of the house. If you’re able to, try working outside for a bit.
Disconnect & Unplug
In this day and age, it can be hard to spend time away from our devices. Let’s admit it, a lot of us are hooked to our phones and the sweet pull of social media is just a few clicks away. These tools are amazing, but can be a big distraction, especially if an assignment is due. Try plugging your phone in another room or not logging in until your work is done. This one could be tough, but we could all use some time away from our screens.
Listen to Music
Other art forms may be inspiring for the projects we are working on. Music has the ability to convey many emotions, but it also can be a great motivator. It can also help distract from the noise, or lack thereof, in the office. Pandora and Spotify are great tools for listening to music and creating playlists. If lyrics are too distracting, try instrumental or classical music.
Bring in Another Person
You might feel stuck, but it’s possible you are finished and you don’t know it. Try showing a friend or colleague what you’re working on. Their feedback might lead you to the idea you have been waiting for, or their comments might help you realize that you’re done and overthinking things. Another set of eyes can be very beneficial.
Get Some Rest
If your brain is feeling foggy, maybe all you need is to catch up on some rest. Our time is important and there is only so much in a day to get something done, but be careful not to overwork yourself. It’s important to take care of your mind. If possible, try taking a nap or even a long break. A well-rested individual will be more effective than a tired one.
How do you overcome your creative block? Tweet us @DEVENEYMKTG and let us know.