Rx for Creative Blocks

1. Let go of striving and resistance. Accept this part of the creative process with as much grace, faith, and patience as you can. The harder you push against the block, the more entrenched it will become. Einstein said, "A problem cannot be solved by the same level of mind that created it." O.K., so how do we get to another level?

2. Press "pause." Julia Cameron, author of the modern classic, "The Artist's Way," asks, "Have you learned the art of doing nothing so 'something' can emerge?" Solitude and meditation can support this period of incubation. Let go of how and when the solution will come. Just let your mind play with the pieces of the puzzle "off-line." If meditation isn't for you, try journaling or any repetitive activity that allows your mind to wander.

3.Press "Play." Martin Buber said, "Play is the exaltation of the possible." While your subconscious mind is playing, consciously play also! Find a healthy balance between solitude and time with others. Brainstorming is a great form of mind play, whether done alone or with friends, but "Mental expansion is found in the inspiration we give to each other," (author unknown). Allow yourself to explore, experiment, make mistakes, and have fun!

4. Try some cross-training. Include in your play some time to dabble in other forms of creativity. They will keep the creative juices flowing while your subconscious mind works on the block. Experiment with different structures and tools. This can change your perspective and relieve the stress around the original project, which you can later return to feeling refreshed.

5. Get out in nature. Walking in nature is even better, because of its repetitive, meditative qualities. Try doing your brainstorming out in nature, too. You will feel a different kind of energy supporting you and carrying you along.

6. Take small steps. When you return to your project, do so gently. Set a timer for 15 minutes and play around with any new ideas you garnered from taking the steps above. If nothing comes together, back off and try again later. Once something clicks for you, you'll be off and running!

7. Self-care is the common theme in all of the steps above. Julia Cameron asks, "Do you remember that your body and your body of work are connected?" I wish I could give you (and myself) a quick fix for creative blocks, but this is another one of those situations where it serves us better to go with the flow. See my post from 2/12/07 called "Patience Is Power!"

Please add your comments about how these or other block-busters work for you!

Thanks,
Susan

P.S. I used some of these steps while writing this post!