Recently, several of my friends and acquaintances have been writing about their lack of inspiration. As creative creatures, this is something we all go through. Some more than others, but we all experience creative burnout, funks, or blahs. Often there is a particular reason. When there is a definite reason, one can solve the problem by understanding the reason. When there is no particular reason, just a vague nothingness...it can be more difficult to overcome the absence.
There are several different ways in which I revive creativity. I'd like to share them with you. I may have mentioned these before, but some things are worth repeating.
Go outside. Go for a long walk or hike. Take your camera, if you like. Take a small, lightweight notebook just in case inspiration hits you like a sledgehammer. You'll be glad you have pencil and paper to jot down that new idea.
Find a nice spot to sit and reflect, or sketch. It doesn't matter if you have drawing skills, sketch an interesting leaf specimen, or a flower, or anything at all. Sometimes, focusing on a sketch will bring forth revelations and ideas that are completely unrelated to the sketch itself. This has happened to me countless times. If time permits, take a picnic and plan to stay a while...
Let go. Stop thinking about creativity. Ignore it. Find time for yourself, do something you love to do. Be patient. I promise, it will come back to you.
Do some reading. Get started on that book you've been meaning to sink your teeth into. Whatever your genre, light reading or deep, thoughtful reading, it is the most wonderful form of escape! It's like a mini vacation for your mind. I personally love to read poetry, especially when I'm in a slump. I just received this beauty in the mail...
I will leave you with an inspirational site that I love to visit: SAIPUA. It's such a beautiful, calming and intelligent place to visit. With a focus on nature which completely delights my senses. Speaking of delighting one's senses...
If you are suffering from creative burnout, I truly hope this post will help you in some way. I know there are many other ways to get over a creative funk, dear hearts. Perhaps you'd like to share some of your ways of doing so. I would love that.
Thank you for visiting, and thank you for being you...xo
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