Combatting the Creative Block

“Procrastination is not Laziness", I tell him. "It is fear. Call it by its right name, and forgive yourself.” –Julia Cameron, The Prosperous Heart

Consider the creative block: artisans alike can relate to the feeling in more ways than one. Preparing to draw, write, knit—and nothing. The urge to begin and fulfill the creative need, but instead there’s hesitation and reluctance. Or maybe you aren’t feeling inspired in the moment. There’s lots of advice you’ll encounter with the creative block as a challenge. No matter what kind of creative block you’re experiencing, it can be frustrating and discouraging. Here are some tips, tricks, and advice that can help you feel creative. Let’s combat the block!

Sometimes we need that extra push, which can come from a separate hobby. Making a mental note of the interests and things that inspire you can be an excellent mental jumpstart! Think about that one song that gives you goosebumps and you feel unstoppable when it comes on. You go through your Instagram feed and there’s another artisan’s piece. You love the colours they use in their work and a style you want to try. The world around us can give that initial push as well. The ambience at a local café, the trees in a park and their branches making a specific shape. We often think creative work happens only on our own, when the reality is that a creative boost can be external too. Capturing these moments in a notebook or your phone can help later if the creative block is getting in the way of doing what you love.

If after trying different tricks and you don’t feel the inspiration, remember that ideally your projects should feel inspiring. Having off days and struggling to be creative is normal, so remember not to sweat it. Don’t force projects. Especially the ones that are a hobby. You are allowed to come back to projects later or even start new ones. Even noting future projects you may want to create later can help clear your mind to continue an ongoing one.

If the project needs to be finished; then consider looking inward. Ask yourself some questions and reflect on what’s holding you back. What would make the project easier to work on? Is it the act of starting? The act of completing a project? Consider seeking some feedback from trusted friends, family, and creative peers. Tuning into your own needs and doubts means you’ll be better prepared to complete a project. A creative block doesn’t have to mean the end of creativity. The block gives you the chance to slow down and reflect on how to move forward.

Whether the project is a hobby or your livelihood, remember to give yourself patience and grace. Creativity is physically and mentally challenging, even when it’s fun. Being open to the world around us and our own needs means working to better achieve our goals. You equip the tools to face the creative block, and combat it head on.