How To Smash Through Any Creative Block — With Systems
Creative block isn’t random, and that’s good news! If there is a cause, that means there is also a cure.
When you understand the mechanism for creative flow, and what constricts it, it makes blocks far easier to address.
If you’re struggling to get into the zone, or just want more epic inspiration in your life, follow along to address some of the most common types of creative block from their root cause. Once the right conditions for creativity are in place, it becomes second nature.
1. ELIMINATE DISTRACTIONS
Creative flow requires intense focus, so make sure you have eliminated all possible distractions before you begin. This includes phones, TV, and other noise, but also things like being hungry, tired, or mentally distressed. Always take care of your space, your body, and mind before you begin.
2. FIND YOUR WHY
Do you have a greater purpose for this project and for your creative practice as a whole? Is it something you’re truly excited about? If you have an exciting and fulfilling reason to create, it gives you inspiration, focus, AND motivation. This is essential.
3. ROMANCE THE MUSE
Tidy and decorate your workspace, light candles or incense, make coffee or tea, or do whatever it takes for you to create a studio space that is special and inviting – not really for “the muse” but for you! Love your space and get in the mood by preparing for creative sessions, much like you’d prepare for a date.
4. DO SOMETHING BORING
Put all electronic devices, music, books, and everything interesting away. Just sit still, do nothing, and relax! If you can find a way to be relaxed and completely present, you will have a far easier time creating the right state of being for creative flow.
5. START TINY
Sit at your desk. Sharpen your pencil. Mix a nice color. Make a tiny dot on the canvas. Whatever comes first. Try one tiny little step, then see if you can take another one. Don’t think, just do.
6. JOURNAL
Do you lack clarity? Are you anxious? Write it down! Vent and scribble about whatever is going on right now. Get it all out and consider burning the evidence when you’re done. Once any negativity is out of your system, you can do some brainstorming or writing about what you’re trying to make and why.
7. MAKE SOMETHING HILARIOUSLY HORRIBLE
This might be my favorite method of all – just ask every creative I’ve ever worked with. If you still don’t know what to do, start with what NOT to do and make the worst thing that you can. It’s easy, fail-proof, and fun, and gets your creativity flowing in ways you’d least expect.
WANT MORE?
If you’d like a thorough-yet-simple system for unleashing your highest creativity, sharing your work, getting paid, and more, check out Create Now!: A Systematic Guide To Artistic Audacity, available at Barnes & Noble and other booksellers around the world.
Originally posted at chroniclebooks.com/blog >> If you enjoyed this article, please recommend and share! ♥
