How to End Your Creative Block

For the past three weeks, I've been experiencing writers block. Previously, inspiration had been flowing. It was a beautiful experience. Ideas fell neatly into place, difficult concepts were easily expressed, and I had words! I was living in the land of milk and honey.

Then one day I woke up and the creative juices had stopped flowing. I've been writing long enough to know that creative blocks can be due to a variety of issues. Some blocks are due to anxiety, a lack of focus, time constraints, writing about what you "should" instead of what you love, perfectionism, or needing to resolve an inner fear before moving forward. Other blocks are simply due to the natural ebb and flow in the creative process.

After assessing the nature of my block, I knew this time I was simply in the natural cycle of writing and not writing. This too would pass. As of yesterday, my writing ability has returned!

You may not be a writer, but creative blocks are common to all. Perhaps there are areas in your life where you want to move forward, but just can't get over the hump? If so, it's easy to get disillusioned and push your dreams and goals to the back burner. However, just because things aren't moving forward at the speed you had intended, you don't have to give up.

If you're suffering from a creative block, you're not alone. It's typical to experience creative highs and dry spells. Sometimes the cycle is long while other times it can pass quickly. What's most important to remember is that this creative block will pass. It's up to you to keep your creative project in the forefront until you bounce back.

Here are five tips to get through your block and back into the flow once again.

Keep on working.
You may not be producing your best work, but keep yourself actively engaged with your project.

Don't give up and throw your project away.
It was meaningful when you started and it's still meaningful. Believe in your ability to express yourself even when the going is difficulty.

Relax.
Creativity cannot be controlled or forced. Take the necessary action steps that help you alleviate stress, relax, and think self-supporting thoughts.

Something bigger is coming.
Creative blocks are frustrating when they occur, but they often lead to greater inspiration once they have passed. Often a block occurs because a bigger "wow" idea is trying to get through. Accept that there is value in your down time, take care of yourself, and breathe often.

Change a habit.
When you're stuck in a rut, change something habitual or routine in your life. Make it easy but different. For example, get up earlier than usual, wear clothing you don't normally wear, eat a new food, or take a new route to work. Breaking old habits can lead to feelings of renewed possibilities and excitement.

The next time you hit a creative block, remember that's all it is. Your creativity hasn't run out, it's just temporarily blocked by something. You have infinite creativity within you. Use these simple yet profound tips to overcome to get your creative juices running again!