It is frustrating when you are trying so hard to come up with ideas but can't come up with a single good one. Sometimes it's days or even weeks before I land on a good enough idea to work. It is what we call a 'creator's block'. It's frustrating. It's so annoying. But, we all experience this at some point.
It doesn't mean we can't do anything about it. Let me show you how we can change that! Here are 5 ways you can overcome that creator's block and get your thinking hat on!
Change your workplace
Sometimes, it's not you but your environment. Working at the same desk, sitting on the same chair, looking at the same-old routine life around you can tire your mind. You are not able to think or even have the energy to brainstorm creative ideas. It's all monotonous and mundane. You cannot expect different results by doing the same, old things that haven’t worked out in the past. Try changing your workplace - go to a park or by the lake. Refresh yourself and be around nature. After all, it's one of the most amazing creations of the universe!
Brainstorm session
As a creator, a brainstorming session is a must. Sit down with a fresh mindset and scribble each and every idea on a piece of paper. Write your thoughts down, no matter how stupid they might sound. When you note things down and clear that mind fog, you start seeing clearly and are better equipped to steer in the right direction. When in a brainstorming session, you get into that zone of thinking, creating, designing. It'll surely help you to get out of that creator's block and put you in fifth gear!
Research
When you are short on the outputs, focus on the inputs. Research and learn more about your niche. Nowadays, everything is a click away on the Internet. Look for new ways you can master your style. Know more about your niche, practice it, implement it. Look for inspiration from your role models on the Internet by making good use of the technology at hand. Learn different styles, methods and create a unique style of your own. Remember, authenticity is appreciated by every customer and company. So creating an original artwork will gain you points.
Phone a friend
When you can't think of any ideas, your peers can help you out. At times, all you need is that extra push. Ask your friends to help you in brainstorming ideas. For a creator, inspiration can come from anywhere, anybody, anytime. With the help of your friends, figure out how you can come up with better ideas for your clients. When you hear a different point of view, it can help you put things in perspective! Other people's opinions and constructive criticism can come in handy when you have to brainstorm new ideas for your work.
Take a break
Yes, take that break, you need it. Sometimes, it's not just a creator's block but a way of your body telling you that you need to rest. You should take a few days off and take your mind off of everything. Fatigue is one of the main reasons that hinder creativity. It's a heavy stone on your blooming creativity flower. You should cool off and take some time for yourself. Engage in other activities, take the pressure off of yourself. Sleep on it and come back after a while!
Guys, just remember to not be so hard on yourself. As I said, it happens to everyone at some point in their life. It’s not something to be embarrassed about. The more you fret about it, the worse it will be. Calm down and give some time for things to go back to normal. And when those creative juices start flowing in your mind again, don't you hold back! Now, these are some ways that have helped me get out of my creator's block. Let me know in the comment section below how they worked out for you!