7 Easy Ways to Overcome Creative Block

[This blog post is a small excerpt from our stellar ebook: The Creative Spark - Habits & Tricks to Maximize Creativity]

Even the most creative minds encounter roadblocks. Creative blocks can be frustrating, but they are not permanent. They often arise when we get stuck in a rut, fail to challenge our assumptions, or become overly critical of our own work.

1. Identify your triggers: 

What situations or thought patterns typically lead to a creative block for you? Are you feeling overwhelmed by a complex project? Do you get discouraged by self-doubt? Recognizing your triggers allows you to develop preventative measures.

2. Step away and recharge: 

Sometimes, the best remedy is to take a break, engage in a completely different activity, and come back to the problem with fresh eyes. Go for a walk in nature, listen to music, or spend time with loved ones. A change of scenery and a mental break can do wonders for sparking new ideas. Additionally, try sleeping on an idea. While asleep, your brain rearranges and optimizes data, which can sometimes lead to a solution when you wake up!

3. Seek inspiration: 

Surround yourself with creative works from others, whether it's visiting a museum, attending a concert, or reading a thought-provoking book. Explore new environments that stimulate your mind, like taking a class in a completely different field or visiting a local art gallery.

4. Shift your perspective:

Try approaching the problem from a different angle or reframe the challenge entirely. What would a child's perspective be on this issue? How might someone from a completely different culture approach this situation?

5. Embrace constraints:

Sometimes, limitations can spark creativity. Working within a specific set of parameters can force you to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions.

6. Freewriting and Doodling:

These activities allow you to bypass your inner critic and explore ideas freely. Set a timer for five minutes and write or draw whatever comes to mind, without judgment. You might be surprised by the unexpected connections and insights that emerge.

7. Collaboration: 

Working with others can be a powerful way to overcome creative blocks. Brainstorming sessions with colleagues or friends can spark new ideas and perspectives. Discussing your challenges with someone who has a different skillset can lead to unexpected breakthroughs.

Remember, creativity is a muscle that needs to be exercised.

The more you engage in creative activities, experiment with different approaches, and challenge yourself, the stronger and more resilient your creative mind will become.