If you’ve started something but just couldn’t get to step 1, I’m with you. You don’t even have to be a creative person to go through a funk. I’ve been there a lot and I didn’t want to admit that I was unmotivated, but the truth is I was. It wasn’t that I didn’t have anything to do, this isn’t boredom I’m referring to. I’m really talking about getting myself going again.
Sometimes, well…a lot of times, I just push myself to do what’s on my list or at least start that project, but that doesn’t always work and at times it can be detrimental to my health. Our bodies has this internal cut-off mechanism that shuts down when we’ve done way too much.
A lot of factors can contribute to being unmotivated but I’m thinking the biggest culprit is that we’re not resting enough. We have to give ourselves enough time to replenish, regroup and refresh. So, today I’m delving into this top with some tips to get re-motivated.
First let’s talk about a few of those factors that leaves us exhausted and unmotivated:
- Burn out. It happens when you have a full plate. This is one of the most common factors that oftentimes leads to exhaustion and even depression.
- Physical problems. Sometimes, an injury or recovering from surgery can affect motivation especially when you’re forced to temporarily stop doing even the everyday mundane tasks.
- Personal problems. Let’s face it, it’s hard to concentrate and have fun creating when you have challenges in your life. Having a hobby like crafting can help take your mind off your problems, but not always.
So, how do we get that motivation back?
- Be real and admit it. First off, realize that as a creative person or hobbyist, you will have moments of “creative blocks”. Much like writing blocks, nothing seems to come together. The best thing to do is not to panic and don’t think you’re failing, you are most certainly NOT!
- Give yourself time off. We all need to replenish and recharge our internal batteries so allow some time to do other things. Perhaps try a different craft or sit out in your backyard. Getting out in nature really helps!
- Browse other works of art. When I’m challenged, looking at other artwork or crafts and that usually helps get me thinking of ideas. Pinterest is a great tool for that.
- Reassess. There are times when I’ve had to go back to the basics and start over again. Nothing wrong with going back to the beginning and re-defining what you’re doing and why. Purpose is extremely important so you’re not wasting your time in a medium or area that you’re not fulfilled in. For example, if you know you like scrapbooking more than gardening, then do the scrapbooking. A hobby or creating should be fun not grueling.
- Don’t stop creating. Everyday, I try to do something creative to keep my juices going and my mind afresh. That might be watching a video tutorial, start a blog post, read a magazine, cut out shapes or even practice coloring. This is a time that I’m creating for me to explore, imagine and have fun. I recommend this for anyone. Do NOT stop creating altogether. Just make some time to create just to have fun. And you don’t need to be a Picasso to do something creative or crafty. Don’t know how to get started? Try searching YouTube, there’s a plethora of video tutorials for just about anything.
Please share with me any of your tips for how you get out of a creative block! And, thanks for reading!
