When we come across creative content; be it creative writing, design, video content and the like, what we see is the packaged idea, well arranged and executed, placed before our eyes. What many don't realise though is how or what it took the creative to come to that result. In a way, say the behind-the-scenes that led to what is presented before us as content.
Creative blocks occur with every creative. It will be good to understand and realise that it's not the creative’s lack or shortage of creativity. It's not an issue to begin running helter-skelter about. No. It's just one of those normal occurrences. Just like you don't get to see things go flawlessly and perfectly every day, so it is with the issue of creative blocks.
As much as this is adjudged as a normal thing, and not like a case of being sick, one shouldn't just sit and relax, waiting for it to pass by. The creative is expected to engage in some efforts to “unblock” the blocks to that creative idea he or she is trying to present. That's where the varieties of things creatives do to overcome the blocks come into play.
For a designer and writer that I am, learning to deal with creative blocks, or writing blocks as the case may be is a must. No two ways about it. No negotiations. This is because the blocks are certain to come around. It doesn't matter how skilled or experienced a creative could be, there's always that moment of blank ideas. Perhaps, it can be said to be less with an experienced and well-skilled creative in his/her field. The bottom line is, nobody is free from it.
Since dealing with this is necessary, I had to find my way around it. One of the things I do or engage in to unblock these blocks is to engage with the outdoor environment. There's something about nature. It's inspiring, refreshing and renewing. When I get that chance to enjoy the beauty of nature and the atmosphere, it helps me get back to the tasks, with ideas flowing.
This engagement with the outside environment could be in the form of a stroll. Sometimes, with earpiece or earbuds plugged in, taking in the breath of fresh air from the atmosphere and relishing in the beauty of nature. Funny enough, the ideas come from nature sometimes. In the moment of such a walk, something could pop up from what was seen.
At other times, it could involve me just sitting in a place and enjoying nature and the environment around me. I remember trying this one time in my current location. It was one of the worst writer's block I've experienced. Nothing was coming forth and I needed to bring up a post before evening as I had other engagements. Going out and sitting under a tree, ideas and words came flowing some minutes later.
Nature is one of the best therapies when it comes to dealing with creative blocks. However, it doesn't end with that for me. Other measures could include me taking to the social media space to ease my brain a little, through engaging in some conversations or with some content to keep my brain in a more relaxed state. Sometimes, I just do some chores I need to do. After that, the ideas come flowing.
The blocks to our creativity will always be there. It's not an issue of inadequacy or a failure to find ideas. This is just one of the unwanted perks of being a creative. It should be known and accepted for what it is. Then find how to deal with it.
Images are mine.