We’ve all been there — we’ve tried to come up with an original thought, work on a creative project or engage in a favorite hobby, and found that our brain simply can’t. Perhaps we resort to doom scrolling on social media, rewatching The Office for the 25th time or simply lying for hours on the couch. If you see yourself in this picture, you might be experiencing creative burnout.
Creative burnout often manifests itself through anxiety, fatigue, stress and irritability. You might feel uninspired, as though you’re simply going through the motions of life. Not only is it not a fun experience, but it can also make life difficult — both at work and in your personal life. So, how can we say goodbye to burnout and hello to inspiration?
Take a Break
This doesn’t have to mean abandoning your responsibilities and booking a flight to somewhere tropical. This can simply involve taking an hour or two every day for yourself. If you find yourself working too much overtime, give yourself a strict time to log off. Take a staycation to work on a fun hobby or visit a new local spot. Maybe read that book on your shelf that’s been taunting you. Our brain and body need breaks. It might seem counterintuitive to stop working, but your mind will thank you.
Reach Out
It’s important not to suffer with burnout alone. Find someone in your life you trust and reach out — chances are they’ve also been there. Simply having a space to vent your feelings can lift a weight off your chest. Talking through the problem can also help you discover the root cause and develop solutions. Feeling alone often exacerbates burnout. Communicate with those around you and let them know what’s going on. Being vulnerable is scary, but others might understand more than you’d think.
Follow Other Creatives
Art often inspires art. What’s your favorite creative outlet? Maybe it’s music, baking a new recipe or getting lost in art. Whatever your niche is, find others who share that love. Follow creators online or join a local group. Talking with or watching others engage in your same passion often lights a spark that reminds you of why you love that hobby too. Further, talking about your hobby with someone might help you develop new and fresh ideas.
Unplug and Set Healthy Boundaries
With everyone’s smartphones always at the ready, there’s the expectation that we must be available at all times. Our brains weren’t designed for this. It can be difficult to say “no” or not check notifications, but we all need that space. Consider scheduling your phone to “Do Not Disturb” at specific times in the evening so you can wind down. Try not to check social media and scroll right before bed. If you’re able, turn off work email notifications once you’re signed off. Decline meetings or plans if you need extra time to yourself or just to catch up. This will prevent you from getting overwhelmed to the point of disfunction.
Be Kind to Yourself
It’s easy to talk down to yourself when you feel unproductive. Treat yourself with the kindness you would a loved one. It’s not lazy to relax and take time for yourself. Allow yourself to do all of the above tips: Take breaks, engage with others, enjoy a new hobby and set boundaries. If you’re experiencing the many symptoms of burnout — fatigue, mental fog, etc. — remember that this is normal, especially if you’re overworking yourself. Engage in self-care and remember that taking care of yourself mentally and physically is one of the most productive things you can do.
Jessica Sears is an editor at Innovative Publishing. She can be reached at jessica@innovativepublishing.com.
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