As a VFX artist, or as a matter of fact, as any creative artist, you are bound to face creative blocks. And it is so normal because the industry is structured that way. Creativity doesn't flow out so easily; blocks are meant to be there. There's a lot that comes into play while you face a creative block: that illogical deadline, procrastinating because your friend just sent you a new reel, or anything that could work against you. But you can't use it as an excuse in the industry—you have to complete your tasks on time.
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In this blog you’ll explore this dreaded concept of the creative block, what causes it, and how you can escape it.
What Causes Creative Block?
It is no surprise that the life around you has an essential effect on your brain. And this determines how well you can concentrate and perform your creative thinking skills. Let’s be real, when you sit down to create a new design on a paper or a computer, it is all about keeping your creative spark alive, right? Sure, having the best tools and softwares helps a lot, but those tools are nothing without your imagination.
You probably know the feeling when you’re just…stuck? Like you’re designing a creative and your brain just goes blank. Or maybe, you’re halfway through your project and just can’t see what’s the next thing to do. It hits everyone, doesn't it? But, on the brighter side, it’s not a creative death sentence! Once you understand what is the actual cause, you can take a few steps to move past it.
Here are a few reasons that may be the reason behind your creative block–
1. Stress and Exhaustion– If you are stressed or physically exhausted, your creativity will take a hit. You know when you’re in a good head shape, you feel good and your creative thinking skills are even better. So, if your personal life is chaotic, it will surely affect your creativity.
2. Lack of Motivation– Creativity needs inspiration. One day you’re getting enough motivation and ideas to create and the next day…nothing. Motivation fluctuates and so does the thinking process of your brain. It can happen to anybody, depending upon the current state of mind.
3. Self Doubt– Everyone starts somewhere. Generally, self-doubt comes from comparing yourself to others. It can make you feel demotivated and can block your creative thinking skills over time.
4. Procrastination– Human minds are experts at finding descriptions. When you sit down to work, everything seems interesting except the exact thing you should be doing. And the worst part? It drains the excitement out of the creative ideas you were about to work on.
Okay, now that you have explored some common causes of creative block, let’s take a look at the ways to shake off that creative block.
How To Overcome a Creative Block?
1. Just start! There is great power in thinking big, but you also have to take action for it.
2. Set effective deadlines. The pressure forces your brain to take action.
3. Get moving. Exercise often and tidy up your place to think better and work productively.
4. Change your environment, it’ll help you get fresh ideas. 5. Take breaks (without feeling guilty).
Conclusion
The fact is nobody is 100% creative all the time. Instead of feeling guilty about procrastination or comparison, try a few new things or tricks and see what works for you. Creative block isn’t the end process, it is part of the process.
It is important for you to recognise that this creative block is not permanent. Instead of feeling guilty about it, take it as a sign to switch things up. Try new techniques, experiment with different patterns, take breaks without feeling guilty, and most importantly- just start and keep going!
Your creativity hasn’t lost, it is just waiting for the right spark. And that spark often comes from doing, not procrastinating and sitting back. So, the next time you find yourself stuck on a blank screen, remember that every artist faces a creative block at some point- you just have to push through it and take one small step at a time.
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