Are You in a Creative Rut?
Whether you’re feeling uninspired to write content, or lacking new, incredible ideas, most of us can admit to falling into a creative rut. While it happens to the best of us, it’s important to not let it become permanent. If you’re feeling bored or unchallenged, follow these five steps for getting back on track to the brilliant, creative person you are.
1. Let it all out
Whether you’re aware of it or not, you could be filtering your ideas too much. There’s a reason one of the first steps to a great brainstorming session is to write down ALL the ideas (not just the perfect ones). If you’re a writer, let your ideas flow through you; write down any and all things that come to mind. It could be nonsense, a grammatical nightmare, or just straight gibberish. Feeling stuck musically? Just play. Let it pour out. Are you an uninspired artist? Scribble, doodle, paint whatever you want! It doesn’t matter if it’s terrible; worry about the perfect ideas later. Focus on getting your creative brain moving.
2. Dedicate time
When you’re feeling less than motivated to make great work, you may need to make the time. There are so many movies with the main character having that one moment of clarity before a brilliant idea, but that’s not how it always goes. Creativity doesn’t just happen on its own. Try to schedule a minimum of one hour a week to a creative, dedicated time. Some people work best in solitude, while others need to be social to come up with great ideas. Your creative time can be whatever you want it to be!
3. Switch it up
Talk to any highly creative person and they’ll tell you that creativity doesn’t come from doing the same things the exact same way. When you try something new, you’re forcing your brain to really think. This might just be the thing you need to spark some new ideas. Are you having a hard time being creative in your home, studio or office? It might be time to try a coffee shop. It’s up to you to find a new place, but try it out. You’ll be surprised how great you feel!
4. Experience other art forms
If you’re feeling a little stagnant creatively, why not try a different art form? Even just listening to new music, reading poetry, visiting a museum, taking photos or drawing can ignite something within you. This is another way to force your brain to think in a different way.
5. Join a challenge
Have you ever seen a challenge on Instagram? From #the100dayproject , #sgiew, to #INKtober, there are always challenges going on that provide some inspiration. It can be so fun to be a part of something that sparks creativity.
One last little tip: try not to think about it too much. Creative ruts come and go, and sometimes it’s our own hesitation or sense of familiarity that causes the trouble. Just let yourself work through it with these steps and don’t be too hard on yourself in the process.
If you’re looking for help on creating beautiful content, Bright Productions is here to help. Check out our work under Web, Search and Social and reach out to us.