Break Creative Frustration

1 comment | Posted: Dec 29, 06:00 AM in Advice, by Josh Tilton

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If you are any type of creative individual , you will undoubtedly experience a block or dry spell. It just happens. Usually, it is at the most vital time when you need the creative juices to be flowing. However, I know from experience that these blocks can be broke. It just requires a little more focus and change in direction.

If you specialize in a certain field of creativity, it is quite easy to get out of the blocks. I have focused my artistic talent on web and graphic design for the past years. However I am very capable (if not more) of picking up a paint brush, pencil, pastel or guitar and creating something more organic and tangible then a website. It is the change of focus that allows me to satisfy the passion to create and break down the roadblocks.

Burnout occurs because (sadly) a lot of what we do is not creative. It can be paying the bills, having to do errands, answer the phone, etc. It also happens as you become more established and have a “style” that people gravitate towards. You end up doing the same thing over and over again and it becomes boring. However, it may pay your bills so you figure you will ride it out.

Re-focus your Focus

When you stare at something for too long (or listen to something if you are a musician) you become immune to its to impact. You MUST reinvent yourself to conquer these blocks and burn outs. Take up a new hobby that will stimulate your creativity in a different medium. If you have never learned to play an instrument, during creative dry spells it would be a good time to start learning. Maybe you could start photographing family, writing poetry, or taking a workshop that will give you a new skill.

Trying new things and opening up your schedule can be challenging to experience growth and freedom from creative blocks and dry spells you may be experiencing. Start small. Just start somewhere. When I find that I can not get the creative energy to design a website or logo, I have found great success in stepping away from the computer and drawing for a couple of hours or take the dog for a walk.

Everyone is different, but I hope if you find yourself in a dry spot, these recommendations will help you! Leave your comments to let me know what works best for you.

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Mark MacLean Says:

Hey Josh – Good stuff, I saw Mike Gagne’s site, it looks very nice. I have some CSS questions for you…got time for your old teacher?