Being a part of the creative industry, like digital marketing, is usually a ton of fun. Those of us in the thick of crafting visions often rave about the exhilarating and varied nature of our everyday tasks. But let’s get real here, it’s not all rainbows and unicorns.
Hey, we’re human after all, and even the most creative among us will face days when the well seems to run dry. And that’s perfectly fine! We’re not built to be operating at maximum capacity all the time, even when deadlines loom large, which, let’s face it, tend to only pile on more stress and spike our anxiety levels.
So, what’s the secret sauce to reignite the creative spark ✨when we’re feeling less than inspired? Well, there’s no magical cure, but there are several effective strategies to steer us back to our creative paths. Here are our top go-to tips to jumpstart creativity.
Make a mind map!
Simply put, a mind map is a diagram used to visually organize information into a hierarchy, illustrating connections between different ideas. Mind mapping can be as simple or complex as you make it. The most straightforward approach is to begin with your central concept and expand outward by connecting related thoughts. Suppose you’re strategizing a product promotion, such as “Nike shoes”. This becomes your mind map’s heart, which you circle to highlight its importance. From here, create branches for the various tasks associated with the promotion. You could structure it around the 7 P’s of marketing or be spontaneous, writing down the essentials as they come to you. Extend these branches as far as needed until you have a detailed, interconnected tree representing your project.
This tool is not only useful when you’re feeling creatively depleted, but it’s also a powerful weapon to explore and expand on creative thoughts. The visual format aids in establishing links between ideas and encourages lateral thinking — a crucial component of creativity and creative thinking! Trust us, this works EVERY TIME – it’s like letting your intellect loose on a playground!
Harness the Power of Collections
If you’re not doing this already, it’s high time you started! Every individual in the creativity-driven industry, especially marketing, should have a few collections or pin boards on their social media profiles. These collections, brimming with inspiration from other creative minds, brands, and artists, can be a real lifeline when your own creativity feels tapped out. The next time you find yourself scrolling through Instagram or Pinterest, use that opportunity to curate a blend of diverse styles and exciting designs that you can draw on when in need.
And creative inspiration doesn’t only live on these social media platforms. There are other great platforms specifically designed for creative professionals, like Behance and Dribbble, where you can find fresh ideas. These platforms are not just for showing off design work. They’re also places where designers from all over the world share ideas and inspire each other.
You can find everything from graphic design and product design to motion graphics and user interface designs. It’s like having a huge library of inspiration at your fingertips. So, remember to look beyond “general-purpose” social media when you need inspiration.
Shake Things Up by Switching Tasks
Calling all tenacious souls who can’t quite bring themselves to take a break! If you’re keen on refreshing your creative reservoir while still actively working, try switching tasks. That brainstorming session for the upcoming campaign can wait a bit. Perhaps you’ve got other pending tasks like updating your social media or clearing a backlog of emails. When you shift from creative thinking to more routine tasks, you give your mind a much-needed breather.
When Creativity Seems Absent, Invoke the 5 W’s
Alright, let’s dig into a process that’s often hailed as the Holy Grail of Marketing – something you should absolutely incorporate into your toolkit. Utilizing the 5 W’s is not only a smart strategy, but it also provides you with a compass when the creative juices seem to be running dry. Begin by answering these pivotal questions: WHY is the client creating this? WHERE should it be showcased? WHO should it reach? WHEN should the promotion roll out? WHAT key messages need to be incorporated? The 5 W’s aren’t just rudimentary steps, they are your surefire way to demystify the elusive ‘HOW’ of creativity. So, next time you feel like you’re losing your spark, revisit the 5 W’s. They might just reignite your creative capacity.
Harness the Power of Simplicity
Sometimes the genius lies in simplicity. Often, we overanalyze our ideas, deeming them too elementary or basic, and overlook their potential. Remember, creativity starts with simple thoughts and grows from there. Rather than brushing them off, nurture these simple ideas. Consider them from a fresh angle, or even better, draw inspiration from everyday aesthetics – book covers, architectural designs, or creative commercials etc. can unveil some unexpected creative avenues. As you embark on this journey of simple to complex, you might just find that your ‘basic’ idea was the seed of something truly brilliant.
Let Confidence Lead Your Creativity
Boldly embrace your creativity, refrain from overthinking, and have the confidence to experiment! As professionals in the creative industry, our confidence is a compass guiding us through the labyrinth of creativity. So, trust in your abilities, allow that self-assurance to propel you forward. Remember, confidence isn’t arrogance; it’s a recognition of your skills and the readiness to take on challenges, no matter how complex they might seem. So, allow your confidence to take the reins, leading you to novel and exciting ideas in the world of creativity.
Lean into Collective Brainstorming
If you’re finding it tough to tap into your creative flow, don’t hesitate to consult with your colleagues. No one’s creative well is inexhaustible, and there’s no shame in seeking assistance. Whether your part of a team or a solo freelancer, input from others can provide fresh perspectives and valuable insights. So, engage in collective brainstorming, share ideas, and leverage the diverse minds around you. After all, creativity thrives in collaborative environments. Remember, it’s about making the most of your resources, not exhausting them. 😉
Adopt Holistic Practices to Nurture Creativity
Don’t underestimate the value of simple activities in enhancing your creativity. Incorporating elements like mindful walks into your daily routine, whether in reality or virtually accompanied by your favorite music, can alleviate stress and recharge your mental batteries. Channel your free-flowing thoughts into doodling, a playful yet effective way to stir up fresh ideas and perspectives. Furthermore, consider switching up your snacks – swap out your coffee for nutrient-dense options. These nourishing choices support your brain’s physical health, simultaneously infusing new life into your creative process.
Remember, creativity isn’t like a light switch that can be simply flicked on or off. It’s a dynamic, ever-evolving force within us that sometimes rises and falls. And during those low tides, it’s vital to recall that you’re not alone in this journey. Each one of us struggles with periods of diminished creativity. Yet, it is your resilient, creative spirit that has continually stood the test of time, rising from the ashes of burnout to reignite your passion and inventive flair.
So, when you have creative blocks don’t think of them as barricades, but rather, opportunities for growth, for deepening your connection with your craft. Each experience adds a layer to your creative journey, making it more complex, more enriching, and truly yours. 🤍
Keep feeding the spark of your creative spirit. Strive to rediscover it within your daily tasks, your environment, and even the simple pleasures of life. Creativity often manifests in the most unexpected ways, in the most unforeseen moments, so make sure that you take advantage of them.
