How to Get Over a Creative Block (Without Pulling Your Hair Out)

Every creative’s been here: you’re three hours deep into a staring contest with the blank screen, canvas, sketchpad, or notebook in front of you, wondering why your brain and imagination hate you. You’re sitting with your head in your hands and under-eye bags that would put a Birkin to shame. The only thing making its way into your brain? The spiralling, existential frustration of not being able to think about anything… other than the fact that you can't think of anything. 

These creative blocks aren’t just annoying, they’re demotivating and can make you feel like you’ve lost your magic. Chances are, if you’re reading this, you’re already deep in the trenches—aka, the creative block. Shudder.

But here's the good news: this is completely normal. It happens to all of us. And most importantly, there’s nothing wrong with you. 

Your creativity isn’t gone, it’s just in hiding. Here’s how to lure it back out—no bribery necessary. 

1. Jot it down.

   
   

You know those multi-million dollar business ventures you think about when you're washing the shampoo out of your hair? All those creative ideas that just kind of pop into your head when you're doing the most random things? Write. Them. Down.

In your notes app, voice memo, or notepad. This way, when the block hits, you can just refer back to your little bank of random ideas. Think of it like creative insurance. 

2. Change the scenery.

   
   

Switch it up. Get out of your usual workspace and try creating somewhere new. A park, a café, perhaps a different room with less existential dread. 

This also includes your digital scenery: switch up the platforms you may normally use, like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest. Instead, try podcasts, strange documentaries, or a rabbit-hole Reddit thread. A fresh perspective creates fresh ideas. 

3. Make art unserious again.

   
   

Your brain is tired of performing. Give yourself a break by creating something that is low-stakes and intentionally imperfect. Take logos for brands that already exist, and play around with how ridiculous you can make them—maybe give Colonel Sanders a face-tat and grills. Create an awful jingle for a serious brand.

Make stuff that's cringy and messy. What-the-heck-is-this kinda stuff. Reconnect with the joy of creating without the pressures, because perfectionism is the killer of creativity. 

4. Collab!

   
   

There’s nothing wrong with phoning a friend. Whether it’s co-designing, brainstorming, or sending a “pls help” text, bouncing off chaotic ideas with a trusted confidant may just light the creative spark you need. Collaboration brings new eyes and innovative ideas. Plus, you get to hang with your bestie!

5. Take a chill pill.

   
   

Sometimes the problem isn’t inspiration—it’s exhaustion. Burnout is real and you can't revive a dead horse with caffeine.

Rest isn't a luxury, it's necessary for the creative process. Especially when your superpower is literally your imagination. Go touch some grass, sleep, eat something that doesn’t come in pot noodle packaging, and watch how you bounce back.

Moral of the story: creative blocks are temporary and will always pass. 

Although it’s frustrating and confusing, the confining walls of the creative block can always be torn down with a little perspective shift and TLC. Be gentle with yourself. Trust in your sauce. And most importantly, remind yourself why you fell in love with creating in the first place.

The spark’s still there. Pinky promise.