We all know the feeling: You are driving in your car, sitting in class or maybe scrolling through instagram on your way to work and somehow you get that urge to create something. You have certain thought or an idea and wish you could start putting it on paper or canvas – but you can’t.
On the other hand, we all know the feeling of sitting at a desk in front of a blank page or canvas and just not knowing where to start. When your creative channels are blocked it can be very frustrating. But not to worry! Here are a few tips on how to get back in the flow and creating something beautiful and new!
1. Go for a walk
People were made for walking. Walking is really good for your body and great for your brain. Getting fresh air and daylight are necessary for you to function as an organism.
While being outside in nature or maybe just being in the city and seeing other people your brain gets confronted with new things every time, even it’s the same route you take every day. Pay attention to the little things, like a snail on the road or a droplet of water on a leaf. Everything is constantly changing – even if you don’t realize it at first glance.
Try to just walk while walking instead of thinking or contemplating what to do next – a bit like meditating – and feel the stream of constant energy everywhere. That’s where your creativity comes from as well.
2. Listen to music
We all like different styles. Maybe you love jazz or death metal. Whatever it is, try listening to something new. Maybe your favorite artists new album just came out. Maybe listening to your comfort songs from two years ago will make you feel something you want to put on paper.
Personally, when I am struggling to find something to draw, I listen to music without lyrics. It’s easier to just listen without your brain constantly interrupting because trying to understand words. Whatever your preferences are, just listen and feel. Don’t overthink too much, when your creativity isn’t flowing. I usually doesn’t come from thinking – but from being.
3. Pictures
Think about when and where you feel most inspired and at peace with yourself. Then take out your phone and look at that place. It could be a picture of your pet, your children or a loved one.
Personally, what I love to do, is scroll through vacation pictures. It can be hard to get inspired in your everyday life. But looking at a picture of a beach or city you explored for the first time can bring back those memories and what you felt in that moment. Try to take yourself back there mentally and feel the feels. You might be surprised by the outcome.
4. Read a book
Instead of scrolling through Instagram or TikTok, try reading a book. It can be anything you like – novels, fiction, love story, thriller. Try to paint a mental picture from what you are reading and imagine the characters and settings with all possible details.
“I disappeared into books when I was very young, disappeared into them like someone running into the woods.”
Rebecca Solnit
5. Meet someone
Go out and meet a friend or visit your family. Maybe just go to a café or talk to someone on the bus. In our world where we spend so much time inside our phones and laptops, keeping real life relationships alive is more important than ever.
Try to figure out who in your life makes you feel energized and inspired and who holds you back. In my experience it can be very exhausting to spend time with (certain) people, while others make you feel lighter and help you see the world in a different way. Those are the people to hold on to, especially when you feel stuck or uncreative.
6. Go on Pinterest
Last but not least if you’re not in the mood to do any of the things listed above, this is the easiest go-to for inspiration.
Pinterest has a ton of amazing artwork, photography and aesthetics to inspire you for your own art. My advice: Don’t overdo it. Your brain is a super computer – but if you spend more than say 10-20 minutes looking for something on Pinterest (or Instagram/Tiktok for that matter) your brain will get tired, irritated and overwhelmed by the information and you will be less likely to actually start a new project (and instead you will have wasted 20 minutes of your day).
“Inspiration exists, but it has to find you working.”
Pablo Picasso
If you’re still not inspired for your next artwork check out my drawing ideas for more inspiration!