We are all familiar with the concept of writer’s block. The image of a writer standing at his desk, looking at a blank page, unable to put a single word down on paper is iconic for the phenomenon. Although less talked about, a similar syndrome plagues artists when they feel uninspired and struggle with a creative block. There are times when as an artist you have a blank canvas in front of you and a blank canvas in your mind, and ideas seem to run dry.

The reality is that you simply can’t command inspiration and creativity. There’s not an on and off button you can push and all of a sudden a flow of ideas sweeps over you, although that would be great. So, if you’re going through such a phase don’t worry. It’s a perfectly normal and common state that artist sometimes have to fight with. There’s not an artist’s soul out there who hasn’t experienced something like this at least once. However, you should try to turn things around because staring at the ceiling for hours or beating yourself up won’t help you much.

Luckily, there are ways in which you can get the creative gods to show mercy on you and get your creative engine up and running again. Here’s what you can do about it.

Don’t be too hard on yourself
Creative blocks just happen and you’re not to blame for it. Even great artists have their rough patches and it’s nothing to be ashamed of or hide. Don’t think for a moment that your career is over or that you’re not talented enough. It’s just a stage and you’ll overcome it eventually, but it will happen much faster if you’re not so hard on yourself. The moment you stop panicking and allow yourself to feel the way you feel, the creative spark might ignite again.

Don’t wait for inspiration to come knocking at your door
Some people think of artists like some vessels that channel divine inspiration. They just have to be and inspiration simply flows through them like blood. That’s a very poetic image, but it has nothing to do with reality. Artists have to put in a lot of effort and force themselves to create even when they don’t feel like it. It’s not very glamorous, but it’s their job and that’s just how things work. So if you’re stuck in a creative block, don’t wait for a sign from above to start creating. Sometimes you have to push yourself and get to work to make inspiration happen. You have to fake it until you make it.

Take care of your mind and body
Another misconception is that artists live in some sort of ivory towers and they are shielded from the hardships of life. Wouldn’t that be nice? But the truth is they have to deal with mundane challenges just like everybody else. Your creative block might have something to do with the stress and problems you experience on a daily basis. When you feel all tensed up and you can’t find your focus anymore it’s time to press pause and take care of your physical and spiritual needs. It’s up to you to find ways to de-stress and unwind. For some spending time in nature or a day at a spa can do the trick. Others are keen on alternative relaxing methods like using CBD oils or organic CBD nugs to help them loosen up and reconnect with their creative side. Do whatever works for you to stay healthy and boost wellness.

Go out and about
When you’re stuck in a routine it’s hard to see anything else but what you have surrounded yourself with. It’s nothing new that routines kill inspiration. Sometimes all you have to do get up and leave. Distance yourself from the space you’re familiar with and start moving. A change of scenery might do you good and get those creative juices flowing. Physical activity promotes mental activity and that’s a great way to support both your health and your artistic pursuits. Take a walk in the park, go on a hike or take a short trip if you have the possibility. You might return with a whole set of brilliant ideas.

Socialize
There are times when you need to get away from everything and enjoy solitude to be able to create. But other times being left alone with your thoughts can have the exact opposite effect. If you have tried isolation and it hasn’t paid off, you might want to try the other route as well. Hang out with your family or friends, go at a party or two, meet new people and live a little. When life is all around you, inspiration can come from anywhere and when you least expect it. Surrounding yourself with positive people who give off a great vibe can surely help.

Get out of your comfort zone
This is one of the oldest tricks in the book. When you run out of ideas you have to look for them in new places and experiences. It’s not unusual for artists to reach a point where they are comfortable with the work they do and stop searching for ways to evolve. Staying in a comfort zone can make you feel safe and warm, but it can also block creativity. Your should push yourself to grow and move forward in your career and the only way you can do that is by experimenting and trying new things constantly, even if it might not feel comfortable at times.

Organize your workspace
Artists are seen as free spirits that don’t build boundaries around them, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t pay attention to practical aspects like the way you organize your work space. The chaos around you can create chaos inside you. If your studio is a complete mess and there’s simply no room to breathe, you shouldn’t be surprised that creativity eludes you. A quick spring cleaning can work wonders and bring back order and inspiration into your life.