Last week we discussed creative slumps.  A creative slump can feel devastating and even crippling to a creative person. Creating is an integral part of someone’s personal identity.  A creative block can happen at any time, to anyone, no matter your creative medium. Don't be discouraged if you find yourself in this situation. We will be discussing creative slumps in more detail. 

A creative block can be described as creative burnout. If you are experiencing this, it is important to step back and evaluate the situation. Why do you think you might be having a creative block? 

Sometimes we find ourselves stressed by life events. Moving to a new home, starting a new job, and even tragedies such as losing a loved one can affect our creativity. Expressing creativity can be essential when coping with life changes. Perhaps you like to embroider and it helps you relax in the evening before bed. Maybe you find yourself overwhelmed and depressed with events in your personal life that make it difficult to focus on your beloved embroidery. There is always help and hope if you are feeling overwhelmed and depressed. Reach out to trusted friends and loved ones for help. Consider visiting with a qualified mental health specialist and doctor if you find that life events are becoming too much. They can be an invaluable resource to help you. 

Creative slumps can also be triggered by perfectionism. Many artists and creatives are self proclaimed perfectionists. This can be an invaluable skill when working on projects such as quilts that require preparation and planning for a successful project. It can be an invaluable skill for an artist that likes to paint photorealistic images. At the same time, perfectionism can hinder creativity by creating a block. Some creatives find themselves so gripped by fear and perfectionism that they are unable to start or finish a project. It is important to find a happy balance. Consider experimenting with projects that require less control and planning. This will exercise your creative muscles and challenge your thinking. Projects could include abstract paint pouring. This is a good way to see the beautiful patterns and colors that can form without trying. 

Next week we will be discussing a few specific creative projects and techniques to help you work through a creative slump. Creative slumps don't have to last forever and these projects might just do the trick.