Creative Ruts & How to Get Out of Them

It happens to all of us. 

One minute, you’re full of ideas… the next, everything feels flat. Like you’ve forgotten how to begin, or why you even started. 

If you feel like you've hit that kind of wall lately, you're not alone. Regardless of how you're feeling, you are not stuck (forever). The creative rhythm will come back, it always does. Sometimes you just need to give it a bit of a nudge.

Here are a few suggestions that have helped me over the year and might be useful for you too. 

1. Change Your Space

I'm not necessarily talking about an entire shift to a new space (although I have done this before too), just change or move some things around.  It could be adding something inspiring to your desktop or studio space. A vase of flowers, a desk top organiser, new stationery, whatever.   Or perhaps you need to take something away, clear the table, put things away, reorganise a drawer.

2. Copy Something

Not to 'pretend' it's your own, or even to share with anyone.  Just to start something.

It could be a quote you love, trace the layout and font style, it could be some artwork you love, follow the brush strokes. In bookbinding you can follow a video. Go on YouTube and see what you can find. 

3. Use Fewer Tools or Limit Them

Too many options and ideas can become confusing, even paralysing!  Give yourself limits - one medium, one or two pens.

Limitations aren't a step backwards, they can allow your mind to relax a bit. A creative container can actually set you free. 

Need a Starting Place?

Our Beginners Bookbinding Kit is a simple, satisfying project that might be just the nudge you need. Everything’s included, and the instructions are easy to follow, whether you’re completely new or just out of practice!  {Take a look at the kit here}

Whatever kind of rut you’re in, it will pass. It always does.
Be kind to yourself in the meantime. Start small. Begin again.