Like many other creative people around the world, you might be experiencing why I’m called a “COVID Creative Block”, brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. While normally, I’d recommend changing up your setting to inspire you, for many that’s not an option right now. So instead, here are 5 ways you can beat your creative block from home.
Give Yourself A Break
If you don’t feel creative and productive right now, it’s okay! Like I said, many other people are experiencing the same thing and it’s because there’s so much pressure and stress in our day to day lives. While it’d be nice to use our writing or art as an escape, it’s okay if it feels like too much work for you at this time. Give yourself some time and come back when you feel more refreshed.
Read!
If you don’t feel like creating, then take in other people’s creative works. By reading, you’ll still be working your creative muscles but with less pressure and expectation. You may even be inspired to write something after finishing your newest book. See my book recommendations here!
Indulge In A Netflix Binge
Or, go completely out of your genre and binge watch something on Netflix (or Hulu or Amazon or whatever streaming service you use). Binge-watching turns off your brain and helps you recharge and recalibrate. Watching something laid back, like Great British Baking Show , will help you relieve some stress and get back to a more positive mind set.
Practice Self-Care
Remember to take care of yourself too! Don’t spend all day reading or watching Netflix, but forget to drink your water and eat healthy meals. If you have the extra time right now, invest it in yourself. Take a long bath, start a new skincare routine or learn some new recipes. You’ll never get back in your creative space without taking care of your physical and mental health first.
Write Down What You’re Feeling
If all else fails and you just can’t make yourself keep working on your current project, then write something else. Force yourself to sit down for 10-15 minutes a day and do a free-write. Write down anything that’s on your mind. What are you feeling? Thinking? Fearing? Hoping? Maybe your writing will unblock you and get you working again, or maybe it will just serve as some catharsis.
