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A creative block is a phenomenon best described as an overwhelming feeling of being stuck in a creative process without the ability to move forward and make anything new. It is defined as a creative burnout and is best characterized by a lack of inspiration. Experiencing creative blocks is an inevitable part of life. Creative blocks can come in many different forms and for a variety of different reasons. Therefore, it is crucial to identify the source of the block and take appropriate steps to overcome it.
One of the most common reasons for creative block is the fear of imperfection. Many creatives consider themselves perfectionists, which can prevent them from pursuing ideas or completing projects. Yet the only way to truly perfect your craft is by actually creating. Your inner critic finds fault in any idea you have and stops you from pursuing a new, seemingly riskier project. Or you’re afraid you’ll never make anything better than what you’ve already created and so you procrastinate and make excuses for yourself.
Decision fatigue is quite common when there is an abundance of ideas and an uncertainty about which one to pursue. Sometimes the more ideas one has, the more overwhelming a resolution can be. It can thus prove beneficial to write or sketch your ideas before choosing one that brings you joy and excitement.
While there are some that thrive under pressure, others may feel stifled by stress. The ability to create is often linked to external circumstances and when stressful situations arise, it can halt creativity. A life changing experience may also halt the creative process. Major changes to your lifestyle and way of thinking may disrupt and decrease your ability to focus, possibly leading you towards a creative block.
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To help combat this issue, some suggest finding a comfortable and calm space to quiet your mind. Removing the objects that cause distraction, such as phones and computers, and busying yourself by carrying out a creative activity may help you find your focus. This peaceful time will allow you to create a space for new ideas to grow.
The best way to give your mind a break and reboot is just doing a monotonous task that - while your hands are busy - allows your mind to roam free.
Agatha Christie, a renowned author, once said, “The best time for planning a book is while you’re doing the dishes”.
A brand new project can feel overwhelming, which is why it's important to tackle it bit by bit. Breaking the project down into manageable chunks can prove beneficial in reducing stress and worry that leaves you immobilized due to the huge task at hand. Oftentimes we wait for a unique, out of the box idea to strike our minds so that we can create a one of a kind, highly distinctive piece of art. Oftentimes, waiting for the perfect idea leads us to experience a creative block. So don't wait for inspiration to strike. Get started and you’ll find that just jumping right in will take you somewhere.
Push through the fear of failing if perfectionism is keeping you from creating. Remember that you can only perfect your art if you continue to create it. It shouldn't matter how good or bad it turns out to be. Creating should be a continuous process. Sometimes, just going with the flow helps inspire a new distinctive idea.
As you walk through any period of creative block, remember to give yourself space and time to create as an artist. Recognise what causes your creative block, and do your best to push through. Creativity cannot be forced, so remember to look around you for new sources of creativity and allow yourself the ability to fail in order to succeed.
