Overcoming Creative Blocks
The ever-changing social media landscape requires quick and consistent adaptation from creators. Navigating new trends in a unique way that stands out in the algorithm is a challenge that can lead to perfectionism, fear of failure, and general overthinking.
These issues cause creative blocks, a frustrating experience that many of us know all too well. It can take significantly more time to find motivation or inspiration than it typically would. Once you’ve learned how to overcome a creative block, though, the resulting work can become a masterpiece or overall defining moment in your career.
So, how do you overcome a creative block?
It’s important to first recognize that everyone has experienced or will experience a creative block at some point and you are not alone in the struggle. The good news is that since so many people have experienced this, there are many solutions to the problem. Everyone has different methods that work for them, so it’s important to try out a few different options and see what really reignites that spark.
Here’s how our team gets through creative blocks…
Walk away from your project and allow yourself to take a break. This is how our Content Manager, Katelynn, overcomes creative blocks. Going for a walk outside or stepping away from the screen for a bit is a wonderful way to recharge your batteries and let yourself come up with new ideas.
Embrace idea dumps! Imperfection and failure are normal things, but they still stop us from accomplishing things by igniting fear instead of inspiration. I find myself struggling with creative blocks the most when I’m scared of any imperfections. This is where journaling is your best friend. Write down any ideas you have, even if they don’t make sense yet. You can always go back and refine each idea, but the ideas mean nothing if you don’t start the project.
Move around. Our Founder, Nicole, likes to go to the gym or take her dog for walks on the beach when in need of a little inspiration. If it’s a busy day, she’ll briefly step away from her desk to enjoy a little sunshine, practice meditation, or make a healthy meal. Sometimes, all you need is some sunshine, a glass of water, and a healthy snack!
Outside of these ideas, there are many other ways to overcome creative blocks. Here are a few more ideas…
Talk to other creators and/or industry experts in your field. Initiate conversations and embrace the power of collaboration. Bounce ideas off of each other. Give each other tips and advice. If you don’t have any ideas to run by them, then get advice on how they overcome creative blocks. Where do they look to for inspiration when struggling? Do they have any methods you haven’t tried? The smallest conversations can easily become the most productive.
Make a big task into smaller tasks. There is constantly so much going on in the world so it’s easy for our minds to get cluttered. Take a step back from your creative projects, breathe, and break things down. We’re not meant to be 100% focused at all times, so creating smaller goals allows you the space to get more organized and boost your creativity.
Harness the power of constraints. Creative blocks are the biggest push when it comes to thinking outside the box. I often apply the popular saying “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” to situations in my life, but if you’re finding that your usual routine is broken, figure out a new way to do things! Routine is great, but we all need to experience change every now and then.
Celebrate small wins. Every win, big or small, deserves recognition. Acknowledging what you’ve already achieved can build momentum and motivate you to break through a creative block.
