Unblocking Creativity: 9 Tips to Help It Flow Again

First of all, creative block happens.

Why does it happen?

- Responsibilities

- Stress

- Time (or lack thereof)

- Environmental conditions not suitable

- Worry

- Fatigue

This list could go on and on.

So how can you unblock creativity?

1. Creativity can strike at a moment's notice. Usually it comes when you're trying to fall asleep or do another important task. Carry a small sketchbook/notebook with you and/or keep one next to your bed to jot down ideas as they come. I'm a Post-It Note type of person, so I like to carry a pad in my purse and stick them on my computer so I remember.

2. Change the environment. We are putting a new roof on our house. The constant pounding, power tools and people coming in and out isn't exactly conducive to creativity. That's an example, but the point is, if something is happening in your home (construction, a husband who doesn't have an inside voice, or pets) that is keeping you from being creative, go somewhere. Try a coffee shop, even a library can be a good environment. In my area, there's an old theater that they turned into a bookstore/coffee bar. It's a great place for me to work on my computer.

3. Don't think you have to do a creative project and don't see it as a chore. While I have a business and rely on producing art for income, I always remind myself that when I had a corporate job, I dreamed of doing this. You'll still experience stress, deadlines, etc., but remember that being creative doesn't have a timeline.

4. Take a break. If you're knee-deep in a project and get stuck, walk away. Sleep on it. Play with the kids (human or four-legged). Often times, motivation will come back. It could be minutes, hours or days. Don't rush it. Let it happen naturally. The more you push yourself to be creative, the harder you'll find it is to grab hold of.

5. Peruse other artists'/crafters' websites. Sometimes you have to pull inspiration from others... and that's OK. Obviously, don't steal their ideas, but sometimes feeling their creativity can spark your own.

6. Minimize clutter. You've heard this many times. Organize your materials, buy some new baskets at the Dollar Store, or totes at Walmart and make organizing fun. Once you see progress, you'll want to continue. Once it's uncluttered, you'll enjoy the space and want to be there more often.

7. Keep a comfortable temperature. I love being chilly and warming up with a blanket and slippers. However, when my hands are cold, they become stiff and I lose the steadiness I need to create my art. Bottom line, keep your room at a comfortable temperature so that you're not being distracted by being too hot or too cold.

8. Journal. This doesn't have to be an everyday thing. In the same book you write your ideas in (#1 on this list), write down what you think is blocking your creativity. Take a look at it and see if there is a way to change it. Sometimes getting it on paper can put it in perspective.

9. Talk to someone- a friend, your mom, husband/wife- same as writing it down, verbalizing your thoughts and concerns can help you work through them. Sometimes if I'm stuck and can't figure something out, I call my mom. I'll explain the issue, then come up with a solution as I'm talking to her. In the end, she hardly said anything and usually she ends the conversation with, "glad I could help!" Just her listening allowed me to hear my thoughts out loud.

Remember, creative block happens all the time. These tips are what have helped me, as an artist, get through it.