How to Deal with Creative Lulls in Your Job
Let’s face it; it’s not every day that we get to come up with the next big thing or have that intense epiphany we always see on television shows like Mad Men.
The truth is, no matter how passionate you are about your job, you are bound to deal with the monotony and formalities that go with it–paper filing, formal agenda meetings, client demands, etc.
Don’t get us wrong: this can be frustrating. And for the creative types who crave a constant influx of ideas and the next big thing, a creative lull can be stifling. So: how should we deal with that?
We certainly can’t just go all out renegade and ignore the everyday tasks that make a business a business. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to combat the monotony of everyday business and creative lulls. Take a look a below:
Accept that business is business. First things first, just like you can’t make an omelet without breaking some eggs, you can’t run a business without doing everyday tasks. Every successful business has a plan, and no matter how loose it is, you must stick to it to succeed.
Some days, that means dealing with the client’s demands or filing some papers to get your project on the road. Rather than thinking that these tasks are preventing you from being creative, accept that avoiding and loathing these tasks is what’s contributing to that creative lull.
Find another creative outlet. If you find yourself craving more creativity in your life, then try to find it somewhere else besides your work. For an artist or graphic designer, that can be as easy as doing a project on your own. For an ideas person, it can mean writing your ideas down for later or maybe even considering some part-time freelance work if your job allows it.
Giving yourself multiple outlets to explore your creative side will curb those creative cravings, and if anything should give you more opportunities and experience that will aid you in your career.
Talk shop. Doing creative things isn’t the only way to be creative. Sometimes just talking about your ideas is enough. Find likeminded people to discuss what it is that you are passionate about.
Whether that means going to a convention or grabbing a drink after work with a few colleagues, again, finding a creative outlet that extends beyond work will make it much easier for you to be creative.
The takeaway? Find a balance.
In the end, it’s all about finding balance. Our best advice is to look at all of the formalities and structure that comes with your job as a part of reaching those creative goals you have.
What do you think? Do you have any great ways to let off some “creative steam”? How do you deal with creative lulls at work? Let us know by connecting with us on Facebook or Twitter. We’d love to hear from you!
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photo credit: All information via photopin (license)
