If you are a writer, artist, musician, or a creative soul in any domain, you would have faced that infuriating moment when our brilliant ideas seem nowhere to be found. This means that you have hit the creative block.
What is a creative block?
It is a complex creature that can drain even the most inspired minds. Fear not, cause we have some tried and tested ways to kick that creative block away and unleash your creative mojo once more.
1. Take a stroll
When inspiration hides behind closed doors, it's time to open the door to your house and get outside. Get away from your working desk and go for a walk. It's no secret that getting out of deadline mode helps us see things differently and feeds our creativity, so get outside! Who knows, while you are enjoying the natural breeze or seeing a dog take a dump a flash of inspiration may just strike like a ninja warrior!
“Distance and difference are the secret tonic of creativity. When we get home, home is still the same. But something in our mind has been changed, and that changes everything.” —Jonah Lehrer
2. Get out of your comfort zone
Take a break from your daily routine and go on an adventure! Break the monotony and try out new or even absurd things. Take a cooking class, attend a stand-up comedy show or maybe paint with your toes. Embrace the absurd, and watch as your creativity takes flight! Who knows, your inspiration might be hiding in the most unusual places.
“We don’t know where we get our ideas from. What we do know is that we do not get them from our laptops.” — John Cleese
3. Talk to other creative minds
Expand your network. Ideas are often sparked by conversations, and reaching out to your community might help you feel inspired once again. Gather a diverse group of friends, creative geniuses, or even your cat, and unleash the storm! Let ideas flow freely without judgement or restraint.
“Communication is the solvent of all problems and is the foundation for personal development.” — Peter Shepherd
4. Make something bad
Wait, what? Isn't the goal to create something amazing? Well technically yes but hear me out. Give yourself the freedom to express yourself without worrying about it being perfect or beautiful. You have to be bad in order to get good. So, paint the worst painting of your life or compose a tune that could make cats howl. Embracing the imperfection can help break the initial barrier to your creativity and if you are lucky enough you might stumble upon something good amidst the bad.
"Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes. Art is knowing which ones to keep." — Scott Adams
5. Do Nothing
Yup that’s right. Embrace the art of doing nothing. Let your thoughts wander aimlessly. So find a cozy space, sit back and just watch your mind horses take you to place.
“It is awfully hard work doing nothing.” — Oscar Wilde
These are the few tips and tricks that I have learned over the years that could be helpful to you. Remember, creative block is normal. It happens to all of us. And creative blocks are not always a bad thing. For even in this seemingly frustrating state, good things can sprout. It could be the universe's way of nudging you towards a much needed break. While your creative train might temporarily stop, it could also be the perfect chance for you to sharpen your skills or maybe learn new skills.
So go ahead and embrace it, find your muse in unexpected places and seek out new adventures. Let your creative mojo shine brighter than a supernova on a summer night! For in the depths of a creative block lie unexpected treasure waiting to be discovered.