10 THINGS TO DO WHEN YOU HAVE ARTIST BLOCK

A few years ago it took everything in me to create a piece of art.  I was stuck in a major way.  With support, nurturing and coaching I was able to get out of my funky artist block mood.  Along the way I picked up some really good tools to use for the inevitable time that the creativity monster comes knocking at my door.

Below are 10 ways (and I have many more) that creative minds can get past artist block and get that mojo back:


1.  Wash dishes, sweep or dig in the dirt
 
Do anything that is repetitive.The action of doing the same thing over and over again actually gives your mind a break.Even if it’s a chore you don’t like (maybe raking leaves ain’t your thang).Repetition may open your mind to new ideas.

2.  Go for a walk or long hike
 
Nature is a healing salve to a stuck mind.I have the benefit of having nature trails nearby, but even if you don’t, a simple walk outside will oxygenate your brain cells and something you see may give you a spark and become your next muse.

3.  Drive a long distance on an open highway
 
There is something about getting on an open highway that seems to make me relax.All kinds of ideas come my way.Adding music that I know and can mindlessly sing let’s my mind go where ever it wants to go.I usually come up with some great ideas on long drives.Have a notebook handy for the rest stop.

4.  See something new – Explore & Travel
 
There’s a big ole’ world waiting for you to explore! Why stay stuck in a rut when you can draw inspiration from new environments, new cultures and new experiences.One of the things I have started doing is hosting artist retreats to give people an opportunity to travel with like-minded creatives.Check out the upcoming artist excursions at www.MuseArtsRetreats.com

5.  Go to the library or bookstore
 
Equal to traveling is going to your local bookstore or library. Fictional stories and non-fiction information on different topics may make you aware of something you have never considered. Browse topics of interest or find something completely out of your element.

6.  Take a nap
 
Children usually feel better, more refreshed and less awnry (as we say in the south) after a good long nap.Take one.See how it works for you.

7.  Dance Play and Sing Loudly
           
Dance hard, play hard and sing OUT LOUD!  Play is hands down a cure-all for everything under the sun.  In a world where we are so doggone serious why shouldn’t we laugh a little more – mostly at ourselves.  We may be able to actually heal the world with a little more joy in our own lives.

8.  Pull out a coloring book
           
Ok, so I know in some circles people think coloring is super childish.  Why revert back to a childhood activity when there is actually world hunger to deal with.  We all should be adults right.  Well guess what?  Adulthood is stressing us out! And we are tired of it.  No, coloring is not professional therapy.  Yes, your problems will still be there when you are done.  But maybe if you just take a moment to slow down then what you are stressing about won’t stress you out and the solution may come to you.  When you wrestle down a monster, sometime you lose.  If you want to add a little more fun to it, grab a friend and go to coloring group meetup like:

http://www.meetup.com/Coloring-for-Adults/

9.  Be around Creative People
 
What better way to spend your time than with someone who reflects and validates who you are when you are wrestling with artist block.  They know what the creative monster looks like.  They just stared him down yesterday and won.  Your art buddy may have the encouragement you need to go back and try again.  Bounce your struggles, ideas and dreams of off your artist friend – and be kind enough to let them do the same.
 
 10. Yoga, Prayer, Meditate and Healing Arts
 
This last one was big for me.  I am really into yoga and meditation.  I know that prayer has worked for me.  Using spirituality to center yourself works for some people.  My personal experience has been that when I close my mouth and my eyes, I can actually receive what I need. Find that thing that works for you and make it a regular practice, even if all you have is a few minutes each day.   The time you take to center your mind and heart may be the inspiration you need. 
 
 

Basically, think of anything that brings you relaxation and joy.  Do that thing and do it relentlessly.  The stress of being a blocked artist will eventually leave you to do your work. When the joy comes, so will the inspiration.