Have you ever been in a creative funk? Some friends and I were talking the other day about how difficult it can be to get back into a routine after a break from work (due to holidays, vacations, super busy seasons, etc.).
Even when the daily physical motions are back in order (kids are in school, we’re waking up early again, laundry, chores, etc.), mentally we may still be trying to find our focus even weeks later.
It’s not because we’re lazy (far from it!)… but because our minds are usually so active with thoughts and ideas, sometimes creatives need extra time to recharge their batteries and get out of a temporary funk.
In fact, taking a much-needed break can actually foster even more clarity and focus for new projects. Here are a few ways to get your creative groove back:
- If you have too many ideas and don’t know where to start, make a list of everything you want to do. Then choose one or two easy projects to start with that will help you slowly get going. A quick win can supercharge your motivation again!
- If you’re feeling uninspired, scroll through Pinterest, visit a museum, or take a walk. Seeing other people’s projects or the beauty of art or nature can inspire you in new ways. (A trip to Hobby Lobby always gives me lots of ideas too!)
- Take advantage of this downtime to plan ahead. Outline future projects and the supplies you’ll need. Research and plan upcoming markets to be a vendor at (or a shopper). Write a tutorial or an ebook that you’ve been putting off.
- Meet a friend for lunch who encourages and motivates you.
- Take a creative class and learn a new skill. (Painting, pottery, sign making, woodworking, reupholstery, etc.)
- Eating healthy foods and working out can give you more energy.
- Set yourself up for the day by waking up, getting dressed, putting some makeup on, and acting like you’re going out even if you just work from home. Sometimes you can trick your mind into feeling more motivated that way.
- Set limits for social media and television. You might want to binge watch Netflix or scroll Facebook for hours, but at the end of the day you’ll feel unfulfilled.
- If you really don’t feel like doing anything at all, try making a To Do list and write every single thing on it. Wake up. Make bed. Drink coffee. Get dressed. The simple action of crossing things off your list can give you a mental boost to keep the momentum going.
- Ask a friend over for an afternoon of crafting, or do some coloring pages or small projects with your kids. It’s hard to be in a funk when you’re having fun with people you love.
What are your favorite ways to find your focus and be creative again? I’d love to hear your ideas!
-Jen
Paula@SweetPea says
My creative groove has definitely been in hiding lately. Thanks for the tips to get it back!
Paula@SweetPea recently posted…Farmhouse Hutch with Vintage Green Pottery
Jen, Girl in the Garage says
I know how you feel, Paula! It’s something I’ve been struggling with too. It’s slowly getting better though. 🙂
Jen, Girl in the Garage recently posted…How to Get Your Creative Groove Back
rose l. says
Hope it helps.
Karen Marie Kedzuch says
Jen,
I love getting up and dressing, making the bed and hanging out with a creative friend. Thanks for the kick in the behind.
Happy Creating,
Karen Marie
Angie ~ ambient wares says
I so needed this today. I agree with getting up and dressed as if you’re gonna go out even it you aren’t! Thank you for the tips! Pinned
Angie ~ ambient wares recently posted…Funtastic Friday 109 – Herb Drying Rack, Crate Storage Bench, & Painted Desk Makeover
Jen says
Thanks for your comment, Angie. Glad you found it helpful!
Kate says
I go through all my inventory of great things I’ve purchased and never found a use for. More than not, it gets my wheels turning again!
Jen says
Oh yes, so true! I have lots of forgotten pieces in my stash that I could do something with. Thanks for your input, Kate. 🙂
dib says
Thank you for this article. I needed it. It helped me just knowing I may not be the only one with painter’s block.
I was on break for the holidays and it is hard getting back into my paint routine even though I want to so much. I love painting furniture,,,so calming to me.
Your tips have motivated me……I am going to concentrate on tips # 8, 7 and 6 and start painting every thing is sight (lol) Again, many thanks.
Jen says
dib, You are definitely not alone! Good luck with returning to your routine. I started working on a chair today and it felt so good!
Jen