Every designer knows the horrible feeling of staring at a blank screen, waiting for inspiration to strike.
You know what I’m talking about… You’re on a tight deadline, and the ideas just aren’t coming.
The more you stare, the more frustrated you get.
You know that if this continues, you’re going to fall behind the project timeline and have to explain to the client why, making you look bad. This just adds to the pressure and frustration.
I used to experience this a lot!
Especially when I was working with many clients - I’m talking 8-12 projects a month. (For reference, I now take on around 6 projects a year).
Thankfully, I now have a simple checklist that I go through every time I experience creative block.
And in this week’s newsletter, I thought I’d share it with you.
So, let’s see how we can spark our creativity and get back to doing what we love most: designing.
1. Switch Gears
Quite often, I’ve found the key to unlocking my creativity is switching gears ⚙️
I do this by engaging in a different form of creativity—think drawing, writing, or specifically Sudoku.
I find that this stimulates my brain in new ways and helps me see my problem in a different context, allowing me to break through my creative block.
This change of pace can reignite your enthusiasm and lead to innovative ideas, which you can then bring back to your design work.
So next time you feel stuck, grab a piece of paper and spend 5 minutes doodling, writing, or whatever comes to mind.
Don’t overthink it, just let your creativity flow. 2. Step Away From The Screen
When the pixels on your screen start blurring together, it’s a sign you need to step away and clear your mind.
I recommend doing this in nature🌳
Otherwise, our dopamine-driven brains will lead us to our phones, consuming pointless stuff (not good for creativity).
Think of this time outside as a refresh button for your brain.
The sights, sounds, and smells of nature can provide a much-needed reset by taking your mind off work.
Who knows, you might even find inspiration in the pattern of leaves, the colours of a sunset, the rhythm of a stream, or even the smell of dog poo 💩
I know this sounds simple, but it’s amazing what a bit of fresh air can do!
So today at some point, try stepping outside, even if it’s just for 5 minutes in your garden. Try to be present and focus on the natural elements around you. 3. Jump on a Call
Sometimes, all it takes is a fresh pair of eyes.
Let me rephrase that… Sometimes, all it takes is a fresh pair of informed eyes.
I wouldn’t recommend jumping on a call with your grandma for advice on your logo design 👵
Instead, talk to a fellow designer or creative.
They can provide insights and solutions you might not have considered.
Even just explaining the problems you’re working on and why you feel stuck can help. Sometimes, voicing it out loud helps your brain come up with solutions.
I like to schedule these calls regularly (like every two weeks). Even if I’m not stuck, chatting with other designers always helps my creativity.
4. Change Your Work Environment
I know this might not be possible for everyone, but a change of scenery can do wonders for your creativity.
Whether it’s moving to a different location entirely or just rearranging your existing workspace, a new environment can provide a fresh perspective and break the monotony that often leads to creative block.
For you, this might mean going to a local coffee shop, changing the desk you work from in the office, or if you work at home, it might be as simple as working in the kitchen for an hour. But no snacking though 🍪
These are my four go-to strategies that always help me overcome creative block and find new sources of inspiration.
I hope you can see that sometimes the simplest changes lead to the most profound results.
Have you got a strategy when creative block strikes? Hit reply and let me know!
Chat next week,
Abi 😊
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