6 Ways to Get Out of a Creative Block

How do you get yourself out of a creative block? Here are 6 tips to help get your creative juices flowing.

We’ve all been there. Staring at a blank screen, a blindingly white piece of paper, or a canvas that refuses to cooperate — a classic creative block. It can be discouraging and frustrating, especially when inspiration feels just out of reach. So what do you do when you’re stuck? Here are 6 ways to reignite your creative flow and get back to doing what you love: creating.

1. Go somewhere that inspires you
   
   Where do you look for inspiration? It could be a museum (go on a virtual tour), an art gallery, local street art, your favorite coffee shop - anywhere that you feel inspired. Spend some time there and take it all in. Don’t focus on being inspired and just be in the moment.  See our Travel & Culture collection
   
   
   Chicago Street Art by artist Elloo
   
   

2. Take a break

   You know when you say a word too many times and it starts to sound weird? The same thing can happen when you’re looking at the same things for too long. Sometimes it helps to just take a step back and take a break and come back to it later. You can go on a walk and get some fresh air to clear your mind.

3. Create every day

   Even if it’s just for 5 minutes a day, create something every single day. The more you practice something the more you will become comfortable doing it. You need to train your mind to create the habit. Consistency is key and after a few days it won’t feel like such a daunting task.  Create your own denim jacket
   
   
   

4. Do something outside your comfort zone

   There’s no better way to expand your mind than by doing something outside of your comfort zone. This pushes you to try something new and who knows maybe you’ll love it. You won’t know until you try. Experiment with a different form of expression that you’ve never tried before. 

5. Just start

   Take 10 uninterrupted minutes and just start to get something flowing.  Don’t focus on the end result being perfect. Let yourself freestyle for 10 minutes to get some ideas out. Whether it’s singing, writing, painting, dancing or whatever creative outlet you use just get it out there.

6. Stay positive. 

   Everyone has that little voice in their head telling them: 
   “you can’t”
   “you won’t”
   “you’re not good enough”
   
   You need to silence those negative thoughts. Instead tell yourself:

   “You can”

   “ You will”

    “You ARE good enough”

   Minimizing and eliminating these intrusive thoughts can have such a positive shift not only on your mindset but your attitude and outlook in life in general. When you start believing in yourself you will be amazed at the possibilities that you will create. 
   
   
   
   

It takes a lot of courage to put yourself out there - especially in a creative sense. Just remember that you got this!

Looking for Inspiration?  Explore our Artist Collections

Happy creating!