3 Ways to Fix a Creative Rut

Don’t be alarmed. This happens to the best of us. We go go go…. and then we stop. And sometimes it’s hard stop; other times it’s the creeping in fog that takes over the brain. Suddenly we’re in a rut, and need a source for creative ideas to help us get out.

Here are 3 ways to fix a creative rut.

1. Change Your Scenery: If you work at the same desk at the same office every day, maybe it’s time to change your scene. Work remotely for one day, and instead find yourself a coworking space with a view, or a cafe with large windows and unique decor. Sometimes just changing your surroundings can allow fresh ideas and new perspectives to fall through.

2. Go on an Adventure: We typically take the same route to work and the same route home. We go to the same place for lunch, and in many cases order the same thing. There’s nothing wrong with having your favorite things, but what if you switch up your game a bit? Maybe try a new place for lunch, with a new person you haven’t spoken to in a while. Maybe take the extreme scenic route and see what views come your way. Maybe take a half day and go explore a fun bookstore, a museum, and other destination points in your home town/city.

3. Get Off Your Computer: So many distractions. How many times are you checking Facebook really? Okay, while we’re at it, turn off your computer too. What if you had a brainstorming session without any screens present? Book some time in your office conference room and rock out some ideas on the white board. Draw a web and make lines and icons and word associations and don’t worry about assigning any meaning to it. Take a notebook and go to a local cafe, restaurant or bar, and just start scribbling down thoughts, sketches, doodles, etc. Take time to look up and take in what’s going on around you, as well as what’s going on inside of you.

We all find ourselves at seemingly dead-ends from time to time. Hope these tips help you find your way out.