The Tribune

It does not matter whether they call it ‘writer’s block’ or ‘creative block’. Most writers, designers, artists, photographers, web developers and programmers depend on their imagination to perform their jobs. But, once in a while, that creative juice you have been relying on does not flow when needed.

When this happens you may feel a bit nervous and uneasy but, fortunately, creative block is a temporary problem. And if artists understand some of the causes of creative block, they may be able to overcome it entirely.

But before we indulge, let us first understand what a ‘creative block’ is. It is the inability to access one’s flowing stream of inspiration and creativity. For example, creative block may arise when an artist embarks on a new series of paintings/designing, or when a writer is in the midst of writing a novel.

From a psychological perspective, creative block is a temporary condition, but it can feel like an eternity, especially to a person who relies on it to make a living.

Creative block may lead to low self-esteem, depression, anxiety and self-destructive behaviours. It will eventually subside, and the artist is able to return to doing what he or she loves most…creating.

For many artists, producing and creating plays a crucial role in their sense of identity. Anyone can experience a creative block due to the death of a loved one; ending of a relationship; lack of financial support; depletion of all creative energy; doubtful over one’s ability and talent; the repeated rejection of one’s work; trying something new; anxiety about the expectations of a project; the need for perfection; an illness or medical condition; sudden loss of meaning and purpose; and negative self-talk or criticism.

I have come to realise that some artists may actually be their own worst enemy, as bad habits can sometimes crush their creative spirit and cause fresh ideas to dissipate.

Perfectionism: Designers may sometimes feel that their creations are not good enough, and perhaps suffer from perfectionist tendencies. They are not alone, as many creative people are perfectionists.

‘Busy-ness’: Over-scheduling with too many projects may seem like a good money-making idea, but it can leave you feeling burnt out. Most creative people require time and exposure to process their ideas to the outside world for inspiration.

Procrastination: This is the opposite of being busy. If you are challenged with delaying, you may find the quality of your creativity suffers. While artists do thrive under deadline pressure, the most creative work is usually not developed at the very last minute. Therefore, pay attention to procrastinations by creating a workable schedule, so as to unlock the flow of your imagination.

Health: If you become ill, your creativity will be affected. However, make healthier living choice - exercising, eating healthy, getting adequate sleep and regular check-ups - a part of your routine.

One of the simplest ways to overcome creative block is to step away and let the brain rest for a bit. When you hit a wall, don’t stew but instead ‘reboot’, as anything of value comes from hard work and unwavering dedication.

Sometimes that is the only thing necessary to get back on the right path again. Sleep and more sleep is the best (and easiest) creative aphrodisiac.

Personally, I get lots of ideas on airplanes. Maybe it is the drone of the engine that helps me concentrate or the fact that I am blissfully unreachable via e-mail for at least a couple of hours.

Similarly, I tend to get a lot of good thinking done when I am on a long drive. The monotony of the road can be very meditative.

Therapy can sometimes be a powerful tool for transcending creative blocks, as it may help the individual use their time as a tool to inspire creativity and work through the issues that are making this difficult to achieve.

Creativity is the lifeforce for many people, and the lack of it can greatly affect the mental, spiritual and emotional state. Cognitive performance will help the designer see the connection between their thoughts and behaviour, and help disengage from negative thoughts that can perpetuate the problem. Until we meet again, fill your life with memories rather than regrets. Enjoy life and stay on top of your game!

NB: Columnist welcomes feedback at deedee21bastian@gmail.com

ABOUT COLUMNIST: Ms Bastian is a professionally-trained graphic designer/marketing coordinator with qualifications of M.Sc., B.Sc., A.Sc. She has trained at institutions such as: Miami Lakes Technical Centre, Success Training College, College of the Bahamas, Nova Southeastern University, Learning Tree International, Langevine International and Synergy Bahamas