5 Tips to Escape Creative Burnout
As a Stay at Home Mom to two young boys, my days often feel chaotic while I’m rushing around keeping a house clean, cooking and meeting the needs of everyone. In order to keep my energy positive and upbeat there are a couple practices that I try to accomplish each day, to keep my patience and creativity high for when the moment strikes that I can actually paint.
Limit Social Media
Social media is such an amazing tool when it comes to networking and sharing your work, but it can be dangerous in regards to comparison and stealing precious time and energy. Instead of mindless scrolling, what could you be doing with that time? Could you be connecting with your child in a way that fills their cup? Maybe you could squeeze in a little bit of time to journal, update your website, or work on something that lights you up!
2. Eat Healthy
My diet isn’t perfect, but 90% of the time I’m reaching for foods that will nourish my mind, body and spirit. Bright fruits and vegetables are energy givers that make up the majority of our meals. High quality protein is also important, I truly believe that the food you put in has the power to balance and heal.
3. Get Outside
Going for hikes everyday isn’t always possible, but when we can we do! On all the other days, my boys and I are outside riding bikes, playing in splash pads or hitting up playgrounds. The more fresh air, the better. While outside, creativity always strikes, nature is the best source of inspiration.
4. Connect with Loved Ones
I’ve been known to be a hermit. I like being alone and am not afraid of stillness and quiet, but every once and awhile I feel a strong desire to connect and be near people that I find inspiring, warm and kind. I love bouncing ideas back and forth with other creatives, and I absolutely love catching up with friends and family over a cup of coffee or a glass of wine.
5. Take a Short Rest but Push Through
One of the hardest things to do while feeling burn out is to keep on creating. I often will take a short break, but will return to my painting practice with optimism. Instead of creating for others I create for myself. The work may not be worth sharing, but that is truly part of the process. Whatever you may be feeling might be happening for a reason. Does a part of your life need change? In my opinion, the best way to overcome burn out is to take a short break, reflect and then get back to creating. Somewhere along the way, you’ll breakthrough and discover something new.
I would love to know your thoughts, what do you do when you encounter creative burn out?