Conquering Creative Block as a Creative Individual

A creative block means that it is a test to the way of our work and problem-solving skills.

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30 Oct

Conquering Creative Block as a Creative Individual

Written by Kreatiklan Tagged as Business and Brands
Whether it’s a writer’s block, an art block, artist block, or even if you believe such blocks don’t exist, a struggle to get artistic ideas (especially when you need them the most) can happen to the best of us. Yes, Kreatiklan’s team too. Working in creative industry, the process of being short of ideas can be frustrating, anxiety-inducing, and even depressing to some people. But before we dismiss creative blocks as something truly evil, let’s see this obstacle from a different perspective. Scientifically, a creative block means that it is a test to the way of our work and problem-solving skills. A creative block can show us what we keep doing wrong, it can open up the opportunity for us to find a more effective way to change that bad habit. And to know how to overcome them, we need to look deeper into what can cause a block. So, which one from these list that you can relate the most?
 
  • Self-Criticism
Excessive self-criticism is often what holds people back from actually doing what they love to do. Most often compare their work with that of other more successful individuals or even to their own earlier work. This can lead to the person not able to see their own work in a realistic light anymore, and nothing seems to be good enough.
 
  • Too many ideas but lacks of organisation
Wait what, too many ideas? This is when your head is cluttered, means you have this creativity somewhere but you can’t apply it correctly. Prioritise what important. Write everything that comes to mind but don’t forget something essential. Build your own system to abide a confusing anarchy that will turn your best thoughts, game-changers and personal revolutions to evaporate.
 
  • Fear
Of criticism and rejection? Of what other people think of? That you’ll never be good enough (especially to the pros in your field)? Yes, fear is completely normal, but it can become a problem once it prevents you from creating anything new. First thing first: Do remember that fear will never truly go away, it’s like a force that will fluctuate. However, don’t let that fear stop you from doing what you love to do and take the joy out of it.
 
  • Perfectionism
What does ‘perfect’ mean? It is impossible to try to achieve a feat that you cannot even describe, because the image of perfect is defined by you. Unwind from that mindset, because it can only hurt you and your work growth in the long run.
 
If you can define what caused you creative block, let us share the way to work through those barriers and to actually conquer ‘the block’. This is proven by Kreatiklan’s team (because we tried them all – like all of ‘em)
 
  • Copy-n-Create
Creating original work seems like a daunting task for now? Think of a few artists who you admire (modern or historical artists don’t matter here) and try to recreate their works. Yes, it can be as technically challenging as with making a new piece, but you have less of the anxiety. While another artist did all of the heavy lifting, you’re tasked with figuring out how they achieved their results. Another form of this exercise is to recreate the work(s). Let your imagination run wild and alter some aspects of the work (can be colour, form, background, shapes, etc.) and try to make it into something new!
 
  • Free-writing
As the name suggests, this is an opportunity where you can write without restrictions. Start writing down any thought that might pop up in your head, with no editing or censoring! The gist of this exercise is to let your imagination roam free. Set a timer for 5 minutes, and write non-stop. Don’t lift your pen from the paper or your fingers from your keyboard. After the exercise, read what you wrote and see if anything pops out that inspires you.
 
  • Go Outside, Move Around
As cliche as this tip sounds, a little bit of moving and feeling the bustling activity outside can refresh your mind. Don’t beat yourself up over not being able to work. Go see a movie, read a book, or visit a friend. We believe, all these activities will bring that many inspirations surround you without you realising it.
 
  • Leave Your Desk (For A While)
Get away for awhile, do something that’s not related to your work. It can be anything: playing with LEGOs, organising clutters in your room, or painting with watercolour- the options are endless. This will refresh your mind and get ‘Eureka moment’.
 
  • Organise your working space
When the block appears in front of you, take this as a chance for you to bring a new order to your work space. Clean the table from clutters, sharpen your pencil, organise materials. Completing menial tasks that you can’t afford to do while you’re busy with work is a low-stress way to still be productive during a block.
 
  • Create a list of “passion projects”
You have some projects in your mind, something that you always want to make? Jot down the ideas, and spare yourself half an hour minimum to do it. Small, but steady steps matter more in the long run.
 
  • Switch Tasks
Rather than dwelling in the same spot or trying to find the perfect ‘design idea’, go work on something completely different for a while. It can be another creative activity like sketching, or showering your plants, or cooking yourself a nice meal (Indomie doesn’t count). 
 
So? Does it work? Honestly, as a creative; we tried many things to conquer the block. Sometimes it works for some people but some of them are not working at all. Let it flow. Ideas can be found in every place and every minute. And if maybe you really really really stuck working on your brand development, and really don’t know what should do to them, why don’t you call us? We are a great partner to brainstorm with. We love to having boba tea when we work and we might grab you one while you visit. Type: OnePm Building Gading Serpong to your maps and visit our office to discuss more.