How to Get Out of a Creative Rut + Spark Inspiration
As an entrepreneur, it is normal to go through ruts and feel uninspired. When this happens I shut all my technology off for a good while and go back to square one and do things that make me happy and it always gets me fired up again!
As an entrepreneur, it's normal to go through a rut or feel uninspired. When this happens, I shut off all technology, just for a little while, and go back to square one. Doing things that make me happy will always get me fired up again!
Every blogger has gone through a creative block at some point, and it is rough. I've had blocks that lasted a few weeks making me reevaluate my websites, blogs, and where I wanted to take them.
I believe that everything happens for a reason. Usually, when I go through these blocks, I have an exciting new vision at the end. Technically, this makes the creative block worth it because I learn a few new things to better my business and myself as a writer and creative entrepreneur.
Here are a few tips and pointers for helping your creative flow when you are feeling completely uninspired!
Take time away from social media and your computer. When I feel uninspired, social media and our electronic devices pushing notifications and updates make my head feel even more cluttered. Take however long you can to close your computer and get some space from your phone. Read a book, watch that show on Netflix you've wanted to see (this time undistracted by scrolling and texts), go outside, or meet up with a friend. Do something to get your mind off of blogging/business. You will be surprised to find inspiration in the most unlikely places!
Reevaluate EVERYTHING… What's working? What isn't working? These are the two vital questions to ask yourself when you have no idea what to do next. Take out a piece of paper and a pen, and go back to square one. What topics are the most rewarding for you to write? Maybe you need a brand redesign or to try a new layout. Take a step back to figure out what you should focus on that will be the most beneficial for you and your readers.
Ask someone for their honest opinion. This is one of the most helpful things you can do. Getting an outside opinion, a pair of fresh eyes on a project will allow you to think outside the box, to see things from a new perspective, and you may even gain some good advice!
How To Spark Inspiration
Change your screensaver and clean up your desktop.
Organizing my computer always makes my mind feel more clear. Changing my desktop background often helps me adjust my perspective and seek inspiration from a quote or a shiny, glittery gold backdrop!
Read a magazine or book.
For me, fashion magazines always spark creativity. I have always loved fashion, and this business stemmed from my love of design and creativity. Browsing through fashion magazines and seeing all the different colors, textures, and patterns inspires my inner designer and always gives me new ideas for color palettes, images, and logos!
Decorate something (planner, draw, write, paint)
My newest obsession has been planner decorating. It makes planning to-do list's so much fun, and it inspires you to get them done. Decorating my planner or simply doodling with my endless supply of pens and markers inspires my creative juices. There is something to be said for simplicity.
I’ve also started painting which is currently becoming something that gives me so much joy. I have set up a little studio space in our spare bedroom with a little easel, paintbrushes, sketchbooks, gouache, and my creative heart couldn’t be happier to zone out.
Browse Pinterest
It may be a given, but whenever I am stuck with writing a blog post or on ideas for my business, I like to browse Pinterest to see what's trending and what my ideal audience is pinning. After having a little pinning sesh, I am always ready to pop out a blog post!
Get out and do something fun!
Whenever I am in a rut, I always find getting out of the house and going to a cute coffee shop with a friend, on a city adventure, or just meeting up with someone who inspires me truly helps and gets me back on track!