"My ideas are playing hide and seek - I'm still seeking." - Marisol

 

 

Art block is like when your creativity decides to take a nap - right when you're ready to get busy. You sit down to create, and... nothing.

 

Creative art block isn't just a myth; it's a real challenge. You might feel stuck, with no good ideas coming to mind, or maybe you lose the drive to finish what you started. It's a common problem for artists, writers, and creators of all kinds.

 

It's that frustrating feeling when ideas refuse to come, or when the motivation to start or continue a project just isn't there. Creative block can manifest in various ways, sometimes making it difficult to pinpoint exactly what's causing it.

 

Everyone experiences it differently, and it can be triggered by things like stress, overworking, or even just the fear of not being good enough. The good thing is, it's a common challenge, and it's definitely possible to break through it with some tried and tested strategies.

 

Knowing the right strategies can make a huge difference in overcoming these blocks and returning to productive and enjoyable creative work. 

 

These strategies are designed to address specific facets of creative block, helping you move past these barriers with understanding and practical steps.

 

First, it's important to understand what's causing your creative block. As you read through these 15 common causes, try to relate them to your own experiences and creative process. This can give you clues, helping you recognize feelings, patterns, or specific things that might be triggering your block.

 

Plus, I'll be sharing some solutions on how to tackle each one, so you can try to break free and get back to creating!
 

 

 

 

1. Perfectionism

 

What is this?

 

Perfectionism in the creative world means setting such high standards for your work that they're nearly impossible to meet. It often stems from a fear of making mistakes, leading to a situation where nothing seems good enough. 

Perfectionists tend to focus excessively on the details, spending too much time on minor aspects of their work. This behavior can inhibit creativity, as the fear of not achieving perfection can prevent you from starting new projects or finishing current ones.

 

 

  

 

 

 

    
How to recognize it?

 

Do you find yourself never quite satisfied with your work? Maybe you keep tweaking things and never feel ready to call something finished. If starting new projects makes you anxious because you’re worried they won’t be perfect, that’s a sign of perfectionism.

   

How to fix this problem?

 

Try setting more realistic goals. Allow yourself to make mistakes - think of them as learning opportunities. Practice separating your self-worth from the outcome of your work; your value as an artist isn't defined by producing perfect artwork.
Limit how much time you can spend on a project to prevent endless tweaking.
Try techniques like speed painting that force you to focus on producing work within a limited time frame, helping reduce the urge to perfect every detail.
Most importantly, remind yourself that it's okay for not everything to be perfect. Creating something "good enough" can often be way more satisfying than not creating anything at all.

 

 

 

 

 

2. Lack of Inspiration

 

What is this?

 

Lack of inspiration feels like hitting a creative wall. You might find yourself staring at a blank canvas or screen, unsure what to make next. It's not that you don't want to create, but rather you feel like you've run out of ideas or the excitement to start.

 

 

How to recognize it?

 

If you're doodling and nothing seems to stick, or if you're finding it hard to get excited about things that usually spark your creativity, you might be facing a lack of inspiration. It often comes a general feeling of disinterest, boredom or frustration towards your usual creative activities.

 

 

 

How to fix this problem?

  

To spark inspiration, change up your routine or environment to introduce new stimuli. Attend exhibitions, read books, or watch films that are different from your usual choices.

Engage with other artists and share ideas to get new perspectives. Keep an inspiration journal where you jot down any and all ideas, no matter how small or out-there they might seem. Sometimes, stepping away from your usual environment or trying a new creative medium can reignite your spark.

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3. Overwhelm

 

What is this?

Feeling overwhelmed occurs when you have too many ideas or too many tasks, causing a paralysis in your ability to act or decide.

 

 

 

How to recognize it?

You'll know you're overwhelmed if you feel stressed when thinking about where to start, or if you find yourself procrastinating because the scope of the project feels too big or too confusing.

 

 

 

How to fix this problem?

Break your tasks into smaller, more manageable pieces. Write a list and prioritize what’s most important or urgent. Try focusing on just one thing at a time. Clearing your workspace can also help clear your mind. It’s okay to ask for help or delegate tasks if you're managing multiple projects simultaneously.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4. Fear of Failure

 

What is this?

 

Fear of failure is worrying that what you create won’t be well-received or good enough by either your own standards or others'. It can be paralyzing, making it hard to complete projects or share your work with the world. This fear often stems from past experiences where things didn’t go as planned, leading to self-doubt about your abilities and talents.

 

 

 

How to recognize it?

 

This fear often shows up as hesitation to show your work to others, abandoning projects before they are finished, or avoiding starting something new that feels risky or outside your comfort zone. You might find yourself imagining the worst-case scenarios or being overly critical of your own work even before others see it.

 

 

 

How to fix this problem?

 

One way to tackle this fear is to accept that making mistakes is part of the creative process. Everyone has those off days, and every project isn’t going to be perfect. This doesn't mean you're not talented - it just means you're learning and growing.

 

Try sharing your work with close friends or family first, people who will be supportive and give you constructive feedback. Their encouragement can boost your confidence.

 

Start with setting small, manageable goals for your projects. This approach can help build your confidence gradually. Instead of aiming to create a masterpiece every time you set out to work, focus on the process of creating.

 

Practice positive self-talk. The way you talk to yourself really matters and can make a big difference in how confident you feel. Try to catch yourself if you start thinking negatively about your work and switch those thoughts to something more positive. Tell yourself about the good things you've done and the unique touches you bring to your art.

If you keep reminding yourself of your strengths and past successes, you'll start to feel more secure and less afraid of making mistakes. This kind of positive self-talk can be a powerful tool in overcoming the fear of failure. 

 

Step out of your comfort zone little by little. Every now and then, try something new with your art that you normally wouldn’t - maybe use a different color palette, or try a new technique. These small risks can help you get more comfortable with the idea of not always having total control over the outcome, and you’ll learn a lot along the way.

 

Facing the fear of failure is a gradual process, and that’s totally okay. Take it one step at a time!

 

 

 

 

5. Burnout

 

What is this?

 

Burnout happens when you’ve pushed yourself too hard for too long. It’s not just ordinary tiredness; it’s feeling deeply exhausted and lacking any interest in your creative work. This can happen when you don't take enough breaks, try to do too much at once, or don't manage stress effectively. When you’re burned out, even the things you used to love can feel like chores.

 

 

How to recognize it?

 

Signs of burnout include feeling constantly drained, having no enthusiasm for projects you used to be excited about, and a general sense of negativity towards your creative tasks. You might also find yourself getting easily irritated, especially when thinking about starting work or trying to push through ongoing projects.

 

 

How to fix this problem?

 

The best remedy for burnout is to take a break. Really step away from your creative projects and do something different that you enjoy. This could be anything from going on a trip, spending time with friends, or engaging in a completely different hobby. When you return, try to set more manageable schedules for yourself, ensuring you have time to rest. It’s also important to make your workspace a positive and organized environment, as clutter and chaos can feed into the feelings of burnout.

 

 

NOTE: 

 

Before I move to the next point, I want to make one thing clear, because many people believe that comparing themselves to others and imposter syndrome are the same thing, but there are differences.

 

Imposter syndrome 

Imposter syndrome is when you feel like you're not really as competent or talented as people think you are. Even if you're doing a great job and people around you are impressed with your work, you might feel like you've just been lucky or that you've fooled everyone into thinking you're better than you are. It's like you're waiting for someone to find out that you're not as good as they thought.

 

Comparing Yourself to Others 

When you compare yourself to others, you're looking at what people around you are doing and how well they're doing it, and then you're measuring yourself against them. You might feel down if you think they're doing better than you, or even a bit proud if you think you're doing better than them. It's all about seeing where you stand in relation to other people.

 

 

How They Overlap and Differ

 

While both can make you doubt yourself, imposter syndrome is more about doubting your own achievements and feeling like a fraud inside.

Comparing yourself to others is more about how you rank or measure up in comparison to people around you. Sometimes, comparing yourself too much can make imposter syndrome feel worse because it might reinforce the idea that you're not doing as well as others.

So, although both involve how you see your abilities, they come from different concerns. One is worrying you're not actually good enough (imposter syndrome), and the other is worrying about how you stack up against others (comparing yourself). Both can be tough on your confidence, but understanding the difference can help you handle them better.

 

 

  

 

 

   

   

 

  

    

Punkt 6. Comparisons with Others

 

What is this?

 

Comparing yourself to others means looking at other people’s achievements and feeling like you don’t measure up. It’s easy to fall into this trap, especially with social media showcasing everyone’s highlights. These comparisons can make you doubt your own abilities and sap your motivation.

 

 

 

How to recognize it?

 

You might be falling into the comparison trap if you often find yourself scrolling through other artists' work and feeling bad about your own. If you notice that seeing others’ successes makes you feel less confident or less inclined to work on your own projects, that’s a sign you’re comparing too much.

 

 

 

How to fix this problem?

 

It’s natural to compare ourselves to others - it's just something we all do sometimes. But remember, everyone's path is different, with their own challenges and timelines. Instead of worrying too much about comparing yourself, try to see it as a way to learn and get inspired, not as a way to judge your own worth.

Everyone has their own unique journey, so focus on yours and know that it’s okay to be at a different stage than someone else.

Social media can make comparing yourself to others even easier, as everyone tends to share their best moments. Start by limiting your exposure to social media or any environments that trigger these feelings. ,Remind yourself that what you're seeing is not the whole story.

 

Focus on your own unique journey and set personal goals that are about your growth, not about matching someone else’s achievements.

Be proud about your own small victories and practice gratitude for the progress you’ve made.

 

 

 

 

7. Lack of Routine

 

What is this?

 

A lack of routine can leave you feeling unstructured and aimless, which makes it hard to maintain a steady flow of creativity. Without a set schedule, it’s easy to become unfocused and not devote enough time to your art, leading to unproductive days and incomplete projects.

 

 

 

How to recognize it?

 

If you’re having trouble sticking to your projects, find yourself frequently distracted, or often don’t know what you should work on next, these might be signs that you’re lacking a solid routine. This can manifest as erratic work hours, inconsistent output, and a feeling that you’re always trying to catch up.

 

 

 

How to fix this problem?

 

Creating a routine can drastically improve your productivity and creative output. Decide on specific times each day dedicated to your art and treat these like any important appointment - non-negotiable. Make sure your workspace is organized and conducive to working efficiently.

Also, consider starting each session with a review of what you accomplished last time and set a small goal for what you want to achieve today. This approach can help create momentum and make each work session more directed and effective.

 

 

 

 

 

 

8. Not Enough Skills

 

What is this?

 

Sometimes, feeling like you don’t have the right skills can block your creative flow. This might happen when you're trying to work in a new medium or tackle a project that's a bit outside your current capabilities. It can make you feel inadequate and prevent you from pursuing new creative opportunities.

 

 

 

How to recognize it?

 

If you find yourself avoiding certain projects or techniques because you believe you can’t do them well, that’s a key sign you might be feeling under-skilled. You might also experience frustration or dissatisfaction with your progress when learning something new, feeling like you’re not picking it up fast enough.

 

 

 

How to fix this certain problem?

 

The best way to overcome this feeling is to commit to lifelong learning in your craft. Take classes, courses, watch tutorials, and practice regularly.

Welcome challenges as opportunities to grow rather than obstacles. Set realistic learning goals and celebrate small achievements along the way. Keep in mind, every expert started as a beginner, and patience with your progress is key. Also, try to connect with mentors or peers who can provide guidance and reassurance as you develop new skills.

 

 

 

 

 

9. Environmental Distractions

 

What is this?

 

The space where you create can really impact your art. If your workspace is noisy, cluttered, or not well - lit, it might be tough to stay focused and feel inspired. These kinds of distractions can pull your attention away and make creating art more challenging than it needs to be.

 

 

 

How to recognize it?

 

Do you often feel distracted when you're trying to work? If your workspace seems chaotic or if it’s making you feel stressed, these are signs that your environment might be holding you back. Frequent interruptions or spending too much time looking for your tools because things aren’t organized are also clear indicators.

 

 

 

How to fix this problem?

 

Take some time to organize your studio. A clean and orderly space can free your mind, allowing you to focus more on your art.

 

Think about setting clear times when you're not to be disturbed, or find a quieter spot if noise is an issue.

 

Proper lighting is also crucial; it not only helps you see your work better but can also uplift your spirits. 

 

If you have the space, why not make your environment more aesthetic and cozy? Creating a workspace that feels good can really boost your inspiration and productivity. For example, adding a plant or setting up a relaxing corner in your studio can make it more pleasant without turning it into a vacation spot.
It's all about balancing comfort with functionality.

 

You want a space that's enjoyable but still focused on work. A few personal touches can make your studio a place where you love to spend time and create, while also giving you little spots for refreshing breaks that re-energize your creativity.

 

 

 

 

 

10. Depression or Anxiety

 

What is this?

 

Sometimes, when you're struggling to create, it might be more than just a typical block - it could be related to deeper mental health issues like depression or anxiety. These conditions can really sap your energy, cut down your motivation, and make it hard for you to dive into your creative projects.

 

 

How to recognize it?

 

If you find yourself feeling sad a lot, losing interest in things you used to enjoy, feeling like you're not worth much, or worrying so much that it gets in the way of your everyday life, these might be signs of mental health issues.

 

 

How to fix this problem?

 

Dealing with mental health issues usually means getting some help from a professional, like a therapist or counselor. It’s a strong step towards feeling better. Along with professional help, taking care of your body can also improve your mind.

 

Try to get regular exercise, eat well, and sleep enough. Practicing mindfulness or meditation can also be really helpful. They can calm your mind and make it easier for you to handle depression and anxiety, which can help you get back to feeling more creative and productive.

 

 

 

 

 

11. The Ugly Stage in Artwork

 

What is this?

In the life of an artist, the "ugly stage" is a familiar yet challenging part of creating artwork. It's when your painting or art piece doesn't seem to be coming together as planned. This phase can trigger a creative block, making you feel like stopping altogether because what you're seeing doesn't match your vision.

 

 

How to recognize it?

 

You might realize you’re in the ugly stage if you feel a growing sense of frustration or dissatisfaction with your painting.

 

It can manifest as a desire to abandon the project because it seems like it’s not improving, no matter how much more you work on it. This stage often brings on stress and can stir up feelings of anxiety or doubt about your artistic abilities.

 

 

 

How to fix this problem?

 

Pushing through the ugly stage requires a mix of toughness and strategy.

First, recognize that almost every great piece of art goes through this rough patch. It's a normal part of the creative process.

 

If the frustration becomes overwhelming, step away for a bit. Take a break to refresh your perspective - sometimes a little distance can help you see the potential in your work.

 

When you return, approach your painting with a mindset of exploration rather than correction. Try new techniques or materials that might give you a different result.

 

Also, getting feedback from other artists or mentors can be incredibly helpful. They can offer constructive criticism and might see beauty or potential where you see none. Keep in mind, the breakthrough often happens after pushing through the toughest challenges.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12. Lack of Confidence or Self-Doubt

 

What is this?

 

Lack of confidence or self-doubt refers to feelings of uncertainty about your skills or the quality of your work. This can lead to a hesitation to start new projects or finish existing ones because you fear they won't meet your standards or others' expectations.

 

 

How to recognize it?

 

If you frequently question your decisions while working, or if you feel that what you create isn’t good enough to share, even when others say it’s great, you might be experiencing self-doubt. You may also avoid opportunities to show your work or shy away from projects that require you to step out of your comfort zone.

 

 

How to fix this problem?

 

Building confidence is key. Start with setting small, doable goals for your art projects. Whenever you hit one of those goals, give yourself a pat on the back - it’s a clear sign of what you’re capable of.

 

Also, try to get some feedback. It’s helpful to hear thoughts from someone you trust because they can point out the good stuff and show you how to improve.

Keep practicing consistently, too.

 

And every now and then, remind yourself of all the cool things you’ve already done. It’s a great way to boost your confidence. Just remember, it’s totally normal to have doubts every once in a while; every artist does as they're learning and growing. Remember, every artist feels doubt at times - it’s a normal part of growing.

 

 

 

 

   

 

  

  

 

13. Imposter Syndrome

 

What is this?

 

Imposter syndrome is when you feel like a fake, even if you've really succeeded. It can pop up at work, in relationships, or just about anywhere. It’s pretty common and really frustrating because it keeps us from feeling as confident as we should.

 

The irony is, that people with imposter syndrom are often the ones who've achieved a lot. They look impressive and capable to everyone else, but inside, they still feel like they don't quite belong.

 

Imposter syndrome for artist is that nagging feeling that you're not truly qualified for the art world, despite what anyone says or the accomplishments you've achieved. It's like a little voice inside your head telling you that you've just been getting lucky, or that sooner or later, people will find out you’re not as talented as they think. This can happen even to the most successful artists, who might feel they don't truly deserve the praise or recognition they receive.

 

The syndrome can make you doubt your skills and talents, often causing unnecessary stress and anxiety.

 

It’s especially tough because it can rob you of enjoying your achievements and might even hold you back from taking on new opportunities for fear of failing and being "exposed." This feeling is quite common in creative fields, where work is subjective and personal, and there’s no clear "right or wrong" way to do things, which makes it easy to fall into the trap of self-doubt.

 

 

How to recognize it?

 

If you often attribute your successes to luck or timing rather than your skills, or if you fear that others will soon "discover" you are not as talented as they thought, you’re likely experiencing imposter syndrome. This can lead to a constant pressure to outdo yourself, which is not only exhausting but can also be paralyzing. 

If you're wondering whether you might have imposter syndrome, consider these questions:

• Do you worry a lot about even small mistakes in your work?

• Do you think your success is just due to luck or things outside your control?

• Are you sensitive to even constructive criticism?

• Do you worry that people will eventually discover you're not as capable as they think?

• Do you often play down your skills, even when you know you're good at something?

 

  

 

  Here’s where I get really excited to share something with you. I’ve created a guide called “Crush Imposter Syndrome: 10 Proven Steps Every Artist Must Know.”

THIS IS NOT “feel-good” guide with fluffy advice! 

I’m talking about real, practical steps that you can start using today!

This guide is packed with practical, down-to-earth tips that help you kick imposter syndrome to the curb and start thriving as the artist you’re meant to be.

Imagine setting your prices confidently, promoting your work without hesitation, and going after big opportunities with the belief that you truly deserve them. This guide gives you the tools to make that happen - simple, clear, and designed to help you succeed as the artist you’re meant to be.

 

 

   
How to fix this problem?

 

It’s important to realize that many people and, artists, go through this. Talking about these feelings with trusted friends or colleagues can help you see that you're not alone. Take a look at the projects you've finished and the positive feedback you've gotten - let yourself feel proud of what you've done.

 

Try to accept compliments for real, instead of brushing them off. Being an artist is all about learning and growing; nobody expects you to be perfect.

 

Just take it one small step at a time. Instead of trying to do everything perfectly, aim to do things well enough and give yourself a pat on the back for just getting started.

 

Don't let those feelings of being a fraud or not belonging hold you back. No matter how strong those feelings are, keep pushing forward and don't let them stop you from chasing your goals. Just keep going!

 

By recognizing and appreciating how you've improved over time, you can slowly build up your confidence and shake off those imposter feelings.

 

Well, It is good to keep in mind, if you’re feeling like an impostor, it’s a sign that you’ve actually succeeded in some way - you might just be giving all the credit to luck. Try to shift that feeling to one of gratitude.

 

Take a look at your achievements and allow yourself to feel thankful for them. It’s a kinder way to treat yourself!

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

14. Fear of Criticism

 

What is this?

 

Being scared of criticism means you're really worried about what others think of your art, to the point where it might stop you from creating freely. This fear can keep you from sharing your work and limit your artistic expression.

 

 

How to recognize it?

 

If the thought of people judging your art makes you anxious, or if you find yourself making art that you think others will like instead of what you want to create, you might be afraid of criticism. This can also show up as hesitancy to try new styles or techniques in your work.

 

 

How to fix this certain problem?

 

One way to deal with this fear is to start by showing your work to a small group of supportive people. As you get more comfortable with feedback, you can begin sharing your art with a larger audience.

 

Keep in mind that criticism can actually be good - it can give you valuable insights and help improve your work. Focus on the helpful parts of feedback and try to ignore comments that don't serve you.

 

Also, keep reminding yourself why you create art - it should mainly be for your own joy and expression.

 

 

 

 

 

 

15. Wrong Art Medium

 

What is this?

 

Using the wrong art medium happens when the tools or methods you are using don’t suit your true artistic expression. This mismatch can lead to frustration and dissatisfaction with your creative process and outcomes.

 

 

How to recognize it?

 

If you consistently feel frustrated with the materials you are using or if the final look of your artworks never seems to match what you envisioned, it might be a sign that you’re not working with the right medium. You might also feel that your creativity is stifled or that you're unable to effectively translate your ideas into the physical work.

 

 

How to fix this problem?

 

Experiment with different mediums to find one that feels right and aligns with your vision. Attend workshops or classes to explore various artistic tools and techniques. Don't be afraid to mix mediums or try unconventional materials. Sometimes the best fit comes from unexpected combinations or from stepping outside traditional boundaries.

 

Finding the right medium can be a process of trial and error, but once you discover it, your work can reach new heights of expression and satisfaction.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Final Thoughts

 

Every challenge is an opportunity to improve. Each obstacle lets you fine-tune your skills. Try to learn something new every day and always be on the lookout for fresh ideas. When you find something that excites you, give yourself a little cheer.

 

Remind yourself daily that you’ve got what it takes and you're only going to get better. Replace any negative thoughts with positive ones and cheer yourself on. If you love making art, promise yourself that you'll stick with it no matter what. Say it out loud: "I am a professional artist, and I create art."

 

Well, making art isn't just a hobby; it's your way of life. Living creatively strengthens your identity as an artist and helps turn your ideas into actual pieces of art. Think about trying meditation, writing down your thoughts in an art journal, or spending some quiet time to help focus more on your art.

 

Treat making art like it’s your job. You don’t need someone else to tell you you’re a pro - believe it yourself and put in the work. Find a routine that fits, tidy up your workspace, cut out the distractions, and just get started.

 

Use a vision board or a Pinterest board to keep the inspiration flowing. You can find ideas everywhere - museums, books, nature, or right in your neighborhood.

 

And when you do finish a piece that you're really proud of, treat yourself. This not only feels great but also keeps you motivated to move past any creative blocks you come across.

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

Just a quick note before you go – If you're curious to know more about the world of contemporary art, feel free to explore my other posts for more insights and discoveries.

They’re full of interesting tidbits and fun insights that you might enjoy.

 

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