What to do when you suffer a creativity crisis

The last week was a slog.

I found myself struggling with what to write, even though I’ve got a database of ideas. But it didn’t really feel like any of them jumped out at me. To be fair, the last few months of writing or filming have gone pretty well to be fair, so maybe I was due this one.

But, it knocked me and I didn’t know how to react.

My useful output has been significantly lower than normal this last week, and I’ve struggled to find inspiration and motivation. I spent hours just searching for what to write, but couldn’t find the words. For instance, this is the third article I’ve started tonight, but I will hit publish on this one. I promise!

But, I’m determined to scale this mountain, as I know there is still so much to learn and I have so much more to offer. We know that in life, the journey can teach us more, and give us more joy than the actually destination. I’m going to take a day or two off to re energise and regroup, ready to come back with vengeance. So, this is my plan

Turn off

In a previous post, I talked about looking after your tools.

But you know what, your body and mind are the two most important tools you have. It’s vital to look after these, as your life literally depends on them. So I’m going to prioritise sleep this week, I’m going to let me body rest and I’m going to come back revitalised.

Have fun

While I love writing, I need some downtime.

I’m going to prioritise having fun for the next couple of days. I’m going to spend time with my family and friends, and I’m going to do all I can to enjoy myself. I’m even going to my first ever baseball training session.

Keep it simple

It’s all too easy to get carried away adding tasks to our To Do Lists.

I have a bit of filming to do tomorrow, but I know what I need to do and I’m not going to get carried away with it. Rather than trying to film 3 videos in one go, I’m just going to sit down and record what I need to. After all, one filmed video is better than none.

Focus on my systems

I’ve worked hard to develop my systems to support me.

So, I’m going back to basics and I’m going to let my systems drive me and get me back to a point of balance. That’s the real foundation for me. So that means reading, journalling and looking after my body (see Turn Off).

The main thing with all of this is that it is perfectly ok to take some time out. I’ve been so hell bent in churning out content that I’ve let this feeling creep up on me not so gradually.

I’m going to take some time for me, focus on the basics and get back to just enjoying life and creating. I know I’ve put too much pressure on myself, but that’s just who I am. I set expectations and I want to reach them.

While we all want to be creative or productive all the time, sometimes that’s not possible. And that is fine. Just don’t let one day tear you away from your journey. It can slow you, take you on a detour or you may even have to stop for a bit.

But whatever happens, keep moving,

One step at a time…