Ever buy a really nice notebook, and it’s so beautiful that you don’t want to waste the first page on something rubbish? You want to create something wonderful but your mind goes blank and suddenly all that’s there is a thought that you forgot to buy milk, and a big question mark over which boxset you want to watch next.
Sometimes it’s not just a new notebook when you get that dry spell. It can hit you unexpectedly, and suddenly you’re wondering why you just can’t think of any ideas. For me, it always seems to come when I’m particularly busy; my brain seems to disengage the creative part to focus on whatever else I need to do. So, just how do you spark creativity? I’ve come up with some ideas below, based on what I like to do when I find myself starting at a blank page.
1. Learn something new
I’ll admit it; I’m a sucker for wanting to learn something new. I really love spending an afternoon taking a workshop and picking up a new skill. I enjoy attending classes in person, but these can sometimes be a bit pricey. If you’re on a budget or don’t live close to anywhere that host classes, I’d thoroughly recommend Creativebug. Creativebug is an online learning platform for creatives. It works on a Netflix-style subscription model, but you do get to keep some classes forever. They offer a free trial, but sign up to their mailing list as they run offers on memberships from time-to-time. I love the Lisa Congdon drawing classes, which are perfect for when you are in a bit of a creative funk.
2. Start a 100-day challenge
Ok, this one sounds daunting. Trust me though, it’s really effective! I completed a 100-day challenge last year where I created a piece of hand lettering every day and shared it on Instagram. It really forced me out of my comfort zone, as you simply can’t post the same content everyday. If you’re going to do this, don’t choose something that will take ages everyday, and don’t pick too much of a niche. I considered doing ‘100 days of song lyrics’ but that’s actually a lot of lyrics to come up with, so did a mixture of my favourite songs, quotes, and phrases suggested by my followers.
Copyright: Blogtacular and Amber-Rose Photography
3. Surround yourself with Creative People
I find nothing more inspiring than being around fellow creatives, and one of the highlights of my year is always the Blogtacular conference. If you’re not quite ready to take the plunge with a full conference, why not join an online community like In Colourful Company? These are often free, and In Colourful Company regularly hosts (free) meet-ups all over the country as well as having an active community on Facebook and Instagram.
4. Hit Pinterest
I love a good magazine, but when it comes to looking for creative inspiration, Pinterest is always my first go-to. I could get lost for hours searching for ideas for craft projects, even if I do often get distracted with all the interiors content. I have a number of boards; craft ideas, pattern, cake decorating, as well as boards for specific events, such as Christmas. I’ve recently started using my morning to commute to spend time pinning.
I like Pinterest as it’s free, but I also love the flexibility of it, it’s so easy to create and edit boards based on what you’re currently interested in.
5. Take a break
If all else is failing, cut yourself some slack and take a break. Get outside for some fresh air, head to the shops for a bit of retail therapy, or cuddle up on the sofa with a box set. Take time to do something that you really love, and the creativity will soon be back with you.
I’d love to know if you have any tips for sparking creativity, let me know the comments of below. If you like any of my ideas, you can read more about some of my past experiences in previous posts:
Rediscovering Drawing: Lisa Congdon’s Creativebug Classes
Learning to Weave with Peas and Needles
5 Things I Learnt at Blogtacular 2018
The 100-day Project: Challenge Complete
Cake Decorating with The Sparkling Spatula
