SPEND TIME IN SILENCE
Mental blocks are by far the most frustrating and discouraging part of any creative process. Inevitable as they are, if you’re not careful, they have the ability to bring your enthusiasm down from 100 to zero in a matter of minutes, and the next thing you know you’re ready to give up on the whole thing and, if you’re anything like me, you’re already researching alternative career options.
Over the years, however, I have learned to view mental blocks as my brain simply telling me to give it a break, like it’s just asking me for a little breather, and so now I try to think of mental blocks as a signal to rest and recharge.
For an overwhelmed brain, I find the best approach is to spend time in silence and stillness. These are some of the things that I resort to whenever the inevitable finally strikes:
Meditation
My first go to is often meditation. Simply put, meditation is the act of focusing the mind for a period of time as a method for achieving relaxation, stillness, and mental clarity. I find the use of meditation apps like Calm, brain.fm, and headspace, to name a few, incredibly helpful, especially for a beginner who may need some guidance. There are numerous ways for one to meditate, which is why I implore you to research and experiment with several techniques til you find what works best for you.
Walking
Going on a hike or a short walk around the neighborhood is a great way to clear your mind. Not only will it get you the fresh air you need, but it’ll also engage your senses, put you in a different environment, and get your body moving.
Mindless activities
This could be a number of things such as coloring, painting, dancing, cooking…etc. Any activity that you find enjoyable and relaxing, without having to think much about it, is an effective way to get your mind off of that mental block and allows for some well earned rest.
People watching
On my favorite things to do list, this would make the top ten with or without a mental block. Just like walking or taking a hike, people watching will get you into a different environment and engage your senses. The chance of inspiration striking through observance is just an added plus.