Breaking Through: Strategies for Overcoming Creative Blocks

Creative blocks can be frustrating, but they’re a normal part of the creative process. Here, I explore 3 common types of creative blocks that I experience on a regular basis and share my strategies to overcome them and get back into your creative flow.

Common Types of Creative Blocks:

• Self-Doubt: Feeling like your work isn’t good enough? OMG, every single day. Self-doubt can paralyze your creativity. Who am I to go to grad school in writing? Who am I to publish a poetry book? Who am I to think I can write a mystery novel? Remember, while there are plenty of success stories out there, we won’t know our own abilities unless we give it a try. You might decide it’s not your thing or get caught up in the process and ride the wave to the end. Either way, you have to 1. Start, and 2. Work at it, and then you’ll know. 

• Perfectionism: Waiting for the perfect idea or execution can stop you in your tracks. As will waiting for the perfect time, or the perfect desk chair, or external motivation. Embrace imperfection and focus on progress rather than perfection. It’s called a “shitty first draft” for a reason.

• Burnout: Sometimes, the creative well runs dry. Recognize when you need rest and allow yourself to recharge.

Strategies to Overcome Blocks:

• Change Your Environment: Sometimes a change of scenery can spark new ideas. Go for a walk, visit a gallery, or simply move to a different room. Move your body or listen to music, anything to temporarily switch off the “I’m Stuck” reel playing in your head.

• Experiment with Play: THIS is my favorite. Take a break from your current project and try something completely different—doodle, cook, or build with LEGOS. I like to cut and paste, myself. Play can reignite creativity.

• Set Small Goals: Break down your project into manageable tasks, i.e. Write for 10 minutes. Completing small steps can build momentum and reduce overwhelm.

"Creative Reset": Set a timer for 15 minutes and engage in a creative activity unrelated to your current project. The goal is to refresh your mind and relieve pressure, allowing creativity to flow more freely when you return to your work.