Creative block, otherwise known as blank canvas syndrome, is a barrier to one’s inspiration and creativity that can affect graphic designers and other creative professionals from time to time. Thankfully, there are proven ways to overcome this temporary challenge and solutions to get ideas moving. We chatted with a few of Blue42’s Graphic Designers about their tips on getting over creative blocks.
Jeff uses a reward system to power through creative blocks and procrastination. He says, “My key to success in avoiding creative blocks is to work hard but take breaks. By rewarding chunks of work accomplished with small breaks, you both rest your brain for the coming burst and create a reward incentive for you to sit back down and crush it. If time away from a mouse and keyboard isn't enough to get over the hump, the best thing to do is just sit and produce as many bad ideas as you can. Some of them may turn into a good idea, and it'll beat the procrastination bug. It's easier to get through a task once you've already started it.”
For Sam, there are 3 main tactics he uses to tackle creative obstacles:
- Music - Changing your frame of mind can be as simple as changing the track. If you need motivation, try playing something fast-paced and hard-hitting, if you need to calm down and clear your mind, try turning on something slower and smoother, like country.
- Muse - Just hearing yourself talk about the idea can trigger a solution. This can be as easy as turning around and discussing your idea with someone next to you or calling a friend or co-worker who is well-versed in design language. Who you talk to doesn't matter, what matters is that you're not only talking to yourself.
- Mind-Shift - Stepping away from the current setting or state of mind you are in can help you process in the background and overcome creative blocks. So go for a bike ride, watch a movie, take a walk, or really, do anything other than stare at the screen.
Shenyeng relies on the complexities of the human brain to help her overcome creative challenges. She says, “Whenever I find myself in a bind or lack of creativity, I like to step away from that project, give it some time, and let my brain figure it out. It's been scientifically proven that as you rest, your brain finds ways to fix and overcome this challenge. In the meantime, work on something else, whether it's another school project, a side hobby, or a task from work. Who knows, something else may spark your creativity!”
With our creative team using tried and true tactics to overcome creative blocks, you can rest assured knowing that you’re in good hands using Blue42 for any graphic design projects. If you need help with any graphic design work or other digital marketing projects, contact us at support@goblue42.com.
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