Often the artist, or someone's creative side, is expected to flow fruitfully, all the time. But what happens when that creative well runs dry? Is it a sign of failure or inadequacy? Absolutely not.
Taking a break from creativity isn't a bad thing, in fact, it can be an essential part of the creative process.
As human beings, we need time to recharge, rest and reflect.
Creativity, while exhilarating, can also be equally exhausting. It requires a great deal of mental energy, focus and inspiration. The pressure to consistently produce new and exciting ideas can be overwhelming.
Like all things - it's necessary to take a step back, take a break and re-invigorate.
When we take a break from creativity, we allow ourselves to recharge our batteries. This doesn't mean we have to stop being creative altogether. It simply means that we give ourselves permission to take a break from the pressure of having to constantly produce something new.
Before you can paint or write a song, you must first gather an empty canvas or a blank sheet of paper. Creativity begins from nothing. So allow for it.
Creativity begins from nothing. So allow for it.
During this time, we can explore other interests or simply do nothing at all. By doing so, we allow ourselves to rest, reflect and recharge. This can often lead to a burst of creativity when we return to our art or music, as we come back with renewed energy and fresh perspectives.
It's important to remember that creativity isn't just about producing something new. It's also about the blank slate at the start of creativity, the journey, the exploration and experimentation. Taking a break from creativity allows us to focus on these aspects of the creative process, rather than just the end result.
Taking a break from creativity can also be an opportunity to gain inspiration from other sources. Exposure to new ideas and experiences can often provide the spark that reignites our creative fire.
In conclusion, taking a break from creativity isn't a bad thing. It's an essential part of the creative process. It allows us to recharge our batteries, gain fresh perspectives and explore new sources of inspiration.
Here are 5 things you can do during your break to re-invogorate your creative spirit:
Travel: Traveling to a new place can provide a change of scenery and new experiences that can inspire creativity. It can also be an opportunity to learn about new cultures and gain a fresh perspective on your creative work. Whether it's a day trip or a longer journey, traveling can be a great way to take a break from your routine and recharge your creative batteries.
Start a vision board: Gather items that catch your interest and attention. It could be magazine cutouts and photographs, but you might also find flowers, packaging or fabric that catches your eye. Bring it all together for a burst of inspiration.
Try on a different world: Immerse yourself in a different world, such as a contrasting artform or watching a movie that is wildly outside of your interest zone. Visit a museum. Go to a heavy metal concert. This can be a great way to gain inspiration and new perspectives.
Connect with others - or spend time alone: Spending time with friends or family can take your mind off of your creative work, and is required for a healthy balance between your creative work and your relationships. This can help you feel more connected and energized when you return to your art. Likewise, spending time alone can also help invigorate your own spirit. Try meditating, journaling, yoga or tai-chi.
Pick up a contrasting hobby and learn something new: Taking a class or trying a new hobby will push you out of your comfort zone and introduce you to skills, people and possibilities you never knew existed. This can also help you to break out of any creative ruts or plateaus - but importantly, it can inform new ways of working once you're ready to return to your art.
So the next time you're feeling burnt out or uninspired, give yourself permission to take a break.
Your creative side will thank you for it.
Dr. Veronica Stewart
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