As a graphic designer, I understand how easy it is to become mentally drained of creativity. Working in a creative field, you are expected to constantly think outside of the box, come up with new ideas, be innovative and whip out out-of-this-world pieces day after day.
If you are suffering from a creative mental block, here are 9 quick cures to try.
1) Take a walk
Fresh air and light conversation with your coworkers not only provides a great excuse to get out of the office and take a break, but can also reset your brain and open up doors for creativity once you get back to your desk.
2) Browse Pinterest
We know you do this at work anyway so why not have a valid excuse for it? I like to search for things like website designs, branding packages, color palettes and occasionally cool tattoos to gather up inspiration from other talented artists and designers around the world.
3) Turn on some tunes
Noise may be more of a distraction for some, but for many of us creative folks, we need constant stimulation. Playing background music can help free your mind. Still not working? Try a Pandora station or Spotify playlist that you don’t usually listen to.
Our team at ROI Online even collaborated on a Pandora station that includes everyone's favorites. Check it out here.
4) Ask a coworker
You may be the only “creative” person at your office, but believe me, you aren’t the only one who is capable of being creative. Getting an outside point of view on a project you’ve been submerged in or are having a difficult time starting can prove very beneficial. Projects that have been collaborated on usually end up being the most successful.
5) Break a sweat
Go to the gym during your lunch break. It may sound like it would drain you of energy, but trust me, it doesn’t! Working out at lunch instead of eating a big greasy hamburger leaves you more energized, happier and yes — more creative.
6) Constructively browse the Internet
I said CONSTRUCTIVELY. So no Facebook or other sites that prove to be more of a distraction than anything else. Try websites that are hubs for other creatives. Here are a few of my favorites:
- https://onepagelove.com/
- http://www.awwwards.com/
- http://www.colourlovers.com/
- https://www.logolounge.com/
- https://creativemarket.com/
7) Mix up your routine
Working earlier in mornings or later in the evening can jump start a project by allowing you to break free of your regular routine. Or switch up your environment by working from home or a coffee shop instead of at the office. 8-5 on the job every day is repetitive, and repetition is often the enemy of creativity. It is wise to mix it up every once in awhile.
8) Have a drink
You could have a glass of water or a glass of wine. Leaving your desk, even for a short amount of time, to reward yourself might be just what you need! **Note: having multiple glasses of wine may make you THINK you are being creative, but you may end up looking like a hot mess.
9) Have a doodling session
Stop what you are doing and sketch! Doodle for a project, or draw something completely different. Letting your mind think creatively about something will help you once you’ve returned back to the task at hand.
Do you have your own remedies to creative mental blocks? Let us know in the comments below!
