If you've ever found yourself in a creative rut, feeling as though the well of your imagination has run dry, you're not alone. It’s frustrating! But regardless of what it feels like right now, the good news is that creativity is not a finite resource. Being able to flex your creativity muscle and working to get out of a creative rut is a skill that can be developed over time. 

Want to know what your biggest creative block is right now (and how to get out of it)? Take this quick quiz to get my advice (as someone who has been there, trust me!).

If you’re in a creative rut right now, you don’t have to stay there. In this post, we'll explore ways to climb out of that rut, reignite your creative spark, and establish practices that encourage a consistent flow of ideas. Let’s get started!

1. Develop Daily Creative Habits

Easier said than done, right? With more than a decade of experience as an artist under my belt, I can tell you that the foundation of sustained creativity lies in the daily habits we cultivate. Just like a garden needs regular tending to flourish, our creative minds thrive on routines and practices that stimulate ideas and foster innovation.

I know that might sound counter-intuitive (routines to establish creativity?!),  but let me explain.

One of the best ways to get out of a creative rut (and avoid it from happening as often in the future!) is to set aside a dedicated time each day for creative pursuits, no matter how small. This could be morning pages to clear your mind, a short sketching session, or brainstorming ideas for new projects. Want some ideas? I have 11 daily habits for you to choose from here! The key is consistency; even on days when creativity feels out of reach. 

2. Prioritize Your Flow State

You've likely experienced this at some point, where you’re completely absorbed in an activity that everything else fades away. But how can we consciously create them? 

First, reflect on those moments. What were you doing? What environment were you in? Identifying the activities and settings that naturally lead you into flow is a powerful tool for overcoming creative blocks. Perhaps it's usually in those early morning hours where you wake up feeling inspired, or when you go for a walk in your favorite outdoor space, or even when you try out a new coffee shop and people watch for a bit. Pay attention to what you are doing when your flow state often begins.

Not sure where to get started? Here are 3 things that help me get into flow state more often.

Then, once you’ve noticed what helps you get there, make these flow activities a regular part of your routine. This is one of the easiest ways to get out of a creative gut and tap into your creative reservoir.

3. Practice Breathwork, Meditation, and Visualization

Before you roll your eyes, hear me out. 

Our minds can be our greatest allies or our most formidable obstacles. When we're caught in a creative rut, it's often our own thoughts and anxieties that hold us back. I know because I have BEEN there. And you know what gets me out more often than not? These three powerful tools.

So how does it work? First, breathwork can help release physical tension and mental chatter, which can in turn clear the way for fresh ideas. Similarly, meditation reminds us all to take a step back and prioritize the present moment, and free your mind to get out of the “day-to-day” creative rut you might find yourself stuck in. Finally, visualization allows us to imagine our goals and the steps we need to take to achieve them, which can motivate us to take action on any thoughts or ideas that pop into our head during the first two practices. 

If you’re skeptical, just know that I was, too. But the truth is that these practices are not just about relaxation; they're about actively sculpting our minds to be more conducive to creativity. And they WORK. 

4. Pay Attention to Inner and Outer Voices

My last piece of advice? Pay attention to both inner and outer voices. Internally, we may grapple with doubts and insecurities that question our capabilities and creative worth. As an artist, it can be mentally challenging to go through a creative rut. It can be easy to spiral and think that creativity is “supposed to” come easily to you or that it’s a sign to give up and call it a day. Don’t listen. As creatives and business owners, we need to be relentless in training our inner minds to support us, not work against us. 

Externally, the environment and the people we surround ourselves with can also significantly impact our creative energy. In my opinion, it's important to curate a supportive and inspiring community that not only understands but also encourages your creative pursuits. This means actively seeking out and engaging with individuals and groups that nurture your creativity, offer constructive feedback, and celebrate your successes. I know it can be challenging, but learning to gracefully distance yourself from negativity or non-constructive criticism can safeguard your creative spirit too. 

TL;DR: If you find yourself in a creative rut, look at what the people around you are saying, and what you are saying to yourself. If it’s not helpful, change it.

Ready to Get Out of Your Creative Rut?

Remember, every artist, writer, and creator has faced a creative rut at some point in their journey. There’s no point in trying to avoid it (or feeling negative about it!) because it happens to all of us from time to time. All you can do is keep moving forward, and learn how to snap out of it more quickly. I can’t wait to see what you create once you do so make sure to follow me on Instagram and tag me in your latest creations!

If you're ready for more personalized guidance to get out of your creative rut, take my quiz to find out your biggest creative block.