Let’s pull up a chair and get real for a moment, shall we? If you’re a designer or a creative, you’ve probably danced with the infamous ‘creative block.’ Yes, that intimidating wall that sometimes stands between us and our glorious design inspiration.

Let’s face it, if you’re a creator, you’ve experienced a creative block.

Creative blocks start innocently enough

At the beginning of my font design journey, I was juggling a circus act of multiple jobs, sleep deprivation, kiddos, plus a household that didn’t magically clean itself (despite my best attempts at persuasive telepathy). 

Sound familiar?

Have you ever had so much on your plate at one time that you feel extremely overwhelmed? 

You know you’re not going to perform at your fullest potential and something is going to fall behind – whether it’s forgetting to do something, not being as present in your relationship as you should be, or you’re on edge and fussy to the people that you love the most. And by a little, I mean a lot. Whoops!

I know I’m preaching to the choir here!

So, what to do?

I pressed the pause button and took a good, hard look at my situation. 

I had this unwavering belief that everything would fall into place. All I needed was a breather, maybe to clear my head, or at least catch a few winks. Believe me, the phrase “you snooze, you lose” does not apply to creatives grappling with a creative block!

The hamster wheel of overworking isn’t a joyride for anyone—not for your family, your co-workers, or even that unfortunate soul who cut you off in traffic.

Ask yourself:

• How do I regain clarity? 
• Where’s that elusive realm of design inspiration? 
• What sparks my creativity?

Everyone will be different, and the answers to these questions can be found within, but the first step is to create space. 

Take a few days for yourself and allow yourself to really explore the possibilities before you — sometimes we need to stop and come back later for some fresh perspective!

Go to a place that brings you joy, or do a couple of things that bring out the very best in you.

Five tips from one creative block survivor to another

Grab your notepads (or sketchbooks, or tablets – no judging here).

Tip 1: Allow Procrastination – Responsibly

Now, this might sound counterproductive, but hear me out! 

Sometimes, when your brain is stuck in an unproductive loop, it’s screaming for a change of pace. 

So go ahead, watch that cute animal video, try a new yoga pose, or take a moment to admire your fabulous plant collection. 

But remember, procrastination is like a quirky friend – fun in small doses, a nightmare when it overstays its welcome.

Tip 2: Get Back to Basics

We often forget that every brilliant creation started with a simple idea. 

So why not revisit the basics? Grab your old sketchbook, indulge in some free writing, or rearrange your favorite mood board. 

The point is, keep it simple, and remember that big ideas often hide in small places!

Tip 3: Talk it Out – Even to Yourself

Have a full-on conversation with yourself about your project (just make sure you’re alone to avoid weird glances). 

Believe me, this is not as weird as it sounds! Articulating your thoughts out loud can help you understand your project from a new perspective. 

And who knows? Your next big design inspiration might just come from your own voice!

Tip 4: Change Your Scenery

Staring at the same four walls can drive any creative mad! Why not change your scenery? 

Try working from a different part of your house, venture out to a local coffee shop — if you’re ready to part with your favorite pajamas — or even take a walk in nature. 

A new environment can be just the ticket to shake off that creative block.

Tip 5: Embrace the Block

It might seem strange, but sometimes the best way to overcome a creative block is to just accept it. 

Pushing too hard can lead to burnout, so treat yourself with some compassion. 

Remember, every artist has their ups and downs, and this too shall pass. Your creativity isn’t gone; it’s just taking a short nap.

These are just guidelines, not strict rules! So if all else fails, and you find yourself dancing around your living room in your most colorful socks to shake off a creative block, well… just make sure to share that funny story with me! After all, we’re in this together.

Extra resources for you

If you’re stuck in the labyrinth of creative block, fishing for an idea for a new brand design, or need a helping hand designing a new web project, don’t fret. 

I’ve got a treasure chest of six creative websites for you to dive into and awaken your inspiration.

Site Inspire  https://www.siteinspire.com/

Design Inspiration  http://designinspiration.com/

Fonts In Use  https://fontsinuse.com/

Answer The Public  https://answerthepublic.com/

Awwwards  https://www.awwwards.com/

Type Everything  https://typeverything.com/

I hope they inspire you to get back on track and tackle that upcoming project!

And remember, friends don’t let friends suffer creative blocks alone. Share your crazy, embarrassing, and utterly relatable stories. Promise I won’t judge!

xx Stacy