Staying motivated and creative at all times can be very challenging, to say the least. I think we all have experienced days when we feel a little stuck or not in the mood. Fortunately, there are ways to overcome creative blockages and stay creative.
Here are some of my tricks that help me stay on top of my game.
Stay organised
Being organised is key for freelance creatives. Being your own boss is great, as you can choose your own working hours and take breaks whenever you please, but it also means that you have to be super motivated and organised to get work done. Keeping both my work space and mind free from clutter help me stay more focused. Also, I try to work around the same time every day. I find it that I am most productive and creative in the mornings so I try to do the most creatively demanding work then.
Be disciplined
In order to flourish, your creativity needs being looked after everyday. Sketching, jotting down ideas, doing a little something everyday help me stay motivated and keep me going.
Do what ignites your soul
Get very clear on what you want your work to be about. Make a list of things that excite you and pick the ones that you can’t wait, simply have to do. Creating things that I find meaningful and interesting makes me jump out of the bed in the morning and get going.
Stay inspired
As creatives, we must learn to keep replenishing our creative resources, so that we wouldn’t run out of fresh ideas. Spending time in nature, browsing in a bookshop, going to new places, surrounding myself with creative people are just a few things that keep my ideas flowing.
Mix things up
A change of scenery can be like a breath of fresh air. If you spend most of your time in the studio, see if there is any part of your work that can be done outside. For example, I like doing my initial sketches and research in a local café. Getting away from the comfort of my studio, heightens my senses, let’s me see things with new eyes and keeps me from going crazy in one place.
Take breaks
Way too often we get obsessed with our ‘to-do’ lists and getting everything done. However, the reality is, there will always be work to be done. It’s important to acknowledge the fact and loosen up on your ‘to-do’s’. Overworking drains your creative energy amongst other things, so it is important to take breaks. Go for a walk, meditate, do something nice for yourself. It will refresh your mind, you will feel more focused, and you will actually end up getting more work done.
How do you keep your creative juices flowing? Let us know in the comments!