Overcoming Creative Block

As someone who has a passion for creativity, creative block is a serious stump. It holds a bunch of common sub-genres, namely, writer’s block, art block, or even music block. Considering I write for my school’s newspaper and love to draw from time to time, it’s inevitable that I’ll encounter it. But luckily, I’ve come up with a couple of methods that have (usually) worked for me. I hope that some of them work out for you!

Take a Break

Maybe you’ve already taken this step, but otherwise, consider it. Oftentimes, we get in our heads about what we’re doing, overthink it, and come up empty. Instead, put that pencil down and try something new.

Read a book: It could be a hard copy or a digital version; it doesn’t matter. Reading is a great way to distract yourself from a different universe while still enhancing your creativity at the same time. By the time you’ve finished your session for the day, you’ll feel good—that is, depending on the book.

Watch movies: Get cozy in bed under your covers and turn on something fun to watch. It doesn’t even have to be a movie; it could be any TV show or one of your favorite YouTuber’s videos. It’ll keep you busy while your mind relapses and takes a breather.

Go for a run: Maybe you’re more of a nature-kind-of vibe, where you’d prefer to go outside and walk around the neighborhood. A refreshing jog while you have your music blasting or your favorite podcast playing is always a great feeling. Are you stuck on what to listen to? I’ve gone ahead and done the honors of providing some of the (best podcasts)—in my opinion—for this very occasion.

Reevaluate 

After letting yourself breathe, it’s time to come back. But now, try reassessing. For instance, imagine you have an essay you can’t figure out how to conclude. Don’t write anything yet but rather take your time reading the entire piece back. Make some altercations, fix your grammar, reword your sentences, and then begin typing. I find that when you ease your way back into the canvas without rushing everything, everything flows to you naturally.

Start Fresh

When having trouble picking up where you left off, try starting over. I don’t mean get rid of the last one—try redoing exactly what you did before but without rules. If you’re drawing, recklessly paint whatever comes to mind first. If you’re writing, ignore grammar and spelling for a minute and just type. Sometimes, when you simply let your mind run free on its own, it’ll do its thing. Only after you’re done should you go back and implement the new version with the old.

Again, creative block is a real thing that you’ll probably encounter soon, if not now. But just remember, it’s temporary and will soon pass. In the meantime, attempt some of the tips above. You never know; it just may pay off.