Staying
inspired is always a task for creatives. Our work takes a lot out of
us. To interpret a vision in our head as best as possible and try to
recreate it into something tangible that an onlooker/viewer can see
with their own eyes and in some cases touch is no small task. However
what happens when you are out of ideas or encounter that dreaded
creative block? It is like being in limbo, in a space where
inspiration is figuratively circling the drain. How does one break
free of that space or prevent it from happening?
I have been in
this suffocating uninspired space before and felt like I was in a
huge rut. However with experience and reflection I realize there are
things I can do to keep me inspired and excited about my art and
business.
Before we go
any further I want to remind you this is my personal experience. We
are all individuals and what may work for me may not work entirely
for you, but I do believe that I have some helpful points to share
and look forward to opening up this discussion to all you creatives
out there.
Be
Aware
Many
artists/creatives have been called dreamers; trust me this is a
compliment to us. Sometimes we may literally just sit and daydream or
'tune out'. In our mind when this happens we are actually 'tuning
in'. I try to be aware of what's happening around me; be it a
beautiful sunset, a particular colour combination in a flower or how
a specific song makes me feel. Be aware of the little things. I am
not a neurological expert, but what I do know is when you make those
conscious impressions on your brain it gives your creative energy
something to feed on or draw from. You never know when something you
take note of will serve you well.
Record
While we take
notice of certain things that we may find beautiful, interesting or
inspiring it is pivotal that we not rely solely on our own memory.
This is an area quite a few of us lack in. We must record in some way
when we are inspired whether it is by writing, voice recording or
even video. What triggered this? Why? How did it make you feel? Be as
sensory as possible. Documenting as much information as possible
makes it easier to recreate this inspiration later. It helps our
brain to relive that moment more clearly.
Be
Organized
When you have
decided what you want to create with the inspiration you have and
also recorded, go on to set time lines for development and deadlines
for completion. This gives our vision some focus. No matter what we
are embarking on having these goals in place is very important so we
know what we are working towards.
Be
Kind to Yourself
We can always
find something we could have improved on. Being overly critical of
our own work just comes with the territory but try hard to fight
against that. Note points to focus on improving on for future
projects and move forward. When you have finished your project,
admire your work and be proud of it. It is a manifestation that just
started with a feeling and that is something amazing.
There you have
it folks! Applying these four things have helped me to keep my
creative engine fueled and also follow through on inspiration. It has
also helped with anxiety regarding work and various projects. It is a
beautiful world out there and we have the wonderful opportunity to
'tune in' and interpret that in our own unique ways.
What keeps you
inspired? Any tips for us? Looking forward to your comments!
Until next
time,
xoxo
Dee
