Feeling stuck? Suffer from writers block? It happens to all of us. As creatives, we all have those days where our minds are blank. Constantly trying to "think think think" and come up with new ideas takes a toll on the mind. Some days the ideas just flow in, but there are times where my brain is tired, and decides to turn off.
When I feel stuck, instead of trying to fight through it, I do three simple things.
First, acknowledge it. I confront myself and admit that ok yes, I'm tired... I'm stuck. Admitting it to myself reminds me that it's okay to feel this way. I can't be 'on' all the time.
Second, walk away. Shut down the computer, put the paintbrush down, or close the book...whatever project you are working on, pause and walk away. Trying to push forward and get the project done will accomplish nothing.
Third, change of scenery. Inside an office all day? Go for a walk and try a new coffee shop, take a lunch break at a park instead of the break room. Work from home? Take a long drive or call a friend to grab lunch. Get out of your normal routine and go somewhere new to help stimulate your brain and get the juices flowin'.
And finally, tidy up your space. When our space is cluttered, our minds feel cluttered. Cleaning your work area is a mindless task that allows your brain to take a break and is also like hitting a reset button.
Lastly, this feeling isn't something that goes instantaneously. It can take a few days, a few weeks, even longer than that - I've had a few rough patches where a month or two goes by and I have no energy to create. But don't worry, it's all part of the process and will happen to you eventually. Just keep your head high, enjoy the down time and it will pass!