No matter what creative industry you’re in, we’ve all experienced the dreaded creative block. For whatever reason, when faced with a task, we feel stuck, overwhelmed, or simply uninspired. We can sit for hours staring at a blank page or screen, not knowing where to start as the time ticks closer and closer towards that looming deadline.
So, how do we overcome a creative block we often find ourselves stuck in? To help you out, we share a few ideas to break that block and encourage your creative flow.
Move Your Body
One of the best things you can do to shake off a creative funk is by exercising. Go for a run, or take a hot yoga, or spin class. Moving your body and concentrating on something else will not only boost your energy and serotonin levels but it will help to get those creative juices flowing.
A new study in the journal Frontiers in Human Neuroscience shows that those who exercise regularly do better on tests of creativity than their more sedentary peers.
Write or Sketch Your Ideas Down
If you usually write down your ideas, make a sketch instead. Or, if you normally sketch your ideas, rather write them down. Try to mix up your usual creative process by putting your ideas down in a new and fresh way.
Using a “different to normal” technique might trigger a new approach to the project or inspire a unique angle to take.
Use All Your Senses
If you spend all day at your desk or on your computer, try to get some inspiration elsewhere. Go and visit a building or place you love. Or maybe page through some books at your local library or pop into your nearest bookstore?
Feel the pages in your hands, smell the brand new books, and spark all your senses instead of simply staring at your computer screen.
Take a Break
If you’ve been sitting at your computer for an hour with nothing but a blank screen to show for it, the last thing you may think you need is a break. But, take your dog for a walk around the block or grab a coffee from your local coffee shop.
The fresh air and the change of scenery will do you a world of good. Listen to some music or a podcast while you walk to help reset your thinking.
Try to See Things From a Different Point of View
If you find yourself stuck in a funk, try and look at things from a different perspective. Maybe you’re coming up with a new interior design concept for a new spa that’s opening.
Instead of thinking about how the client wants things to look and feel, think about walking through the doors as a customer for the first time and how you want them to feel.
Enjoy Some Play Time
Tap into your creative side and play a game or musical instrument if you have one. Think along the lines of jigsaw puzzles, a game of chess, or some kickball with your kids. As with exercise, relaxing into a game can reduce stress and anxiety. Plus, it can also improve your brain’s cognitive function. Don’t think of it as procrastination, play time has proven to help people push through creative slumps.
Start Smaller
Sometimes looking at the bigger picture can seem a little overwhelming, which can act as a barrier to generating new ideas and running with them. If you can, focus on a smaller, key area.
If, for example, you’re designing that new spa, instead of the entire project, start with focusing on the front door or maybe the staircase leading up to the salon. Solving a smaller problem may act as a catalyst or pathway to a more creative solution.
Accept It
Accept that overcoming creative blocks is part of any creative industry. You’ll have good days and bad days, and soon enough, you’ll come up with unique methods and tricks that work for you.
Remember, even if you’re not feeling particularly creative, you can still be productive. Be sure to create a routine, have a few short breaks to move your body, eat lunch away from your desk, and get a good night’s sleep. All of these practices will help set you up for creative success.
Design Industry Recruiters
Are you looking for a new creative challenge? Since 2003, Interior Talent has evolved into one of the leading design recruitment and outplacement firms for the architecture, interior design, engineering, retail, and manufacturing industries.
Our defined area of expertise and ability to continually adapt to our clients’ unique needs allows us to provide focused, individualized service. If you are looking for a new role or need help in architectural or interior design recruitment, Interior Talent is here to help.
See all our available jobs or call one of our architecture or interior design recruiters at 1-800-915-3012. Visit our website to learn more.