Help! I’ve Hit a Creative Block. What Do I Do?

We’ve all been there—staring at the blank page, canvas, or screen, feeling that immobilising frustration of a “creative block.” So, what now? Here’s the thing: not all blocks are created equal. The first step isn’t necessarily to push through; it’s to pause and ask a simple question:

Is this truly a block, or do I need rest?

Sometimes, what we call a block is actually a signal from our body or mind saying, “Enough for now.” If the answer leans towards needing a break, give yourself permission to rest. Take a walk, nap, or simply disconnect from the project for a while. Often, a creative rut is our mind’s way of saying we’re overworked and need to recharge. And it’s important to remember that even though the urge to push through can feel strong, this isn’t a life-or-death situation—it’s simply a moment asking for care and patience.

Understanding Rest vs. a Block

Rest and block can sometimes feel like two sides of the same coin, so it’s helpful to know the difference. Here are some examples that may help:

Fatigue After a Burst of Creativity

You’ve been on a creative high, and now, you’re wiped out. This isn’t a block; it’s a need for rest. This is your body’s way of
saying it’s time to refuel before the next burst. Restlessness or Irritation – Sometimes, you feel on edge with your work and just
can’t get comfortable. This restlessness can signal it’s time to step back and reset, instead of pushing forward.

Overwhelming Stress

If you’re approaching burnout or constantly stressed, it’s a sign to pause. Rest can bring clarity, which often resolves what we assume is a block. When it’s a true need for rest, taking that time off is often the most direct way to Rejuvenate your creativity.

If It’s a Block, Let’s Get Curious!

When you identify it as a block, it’s time to get curious. Here’s how I approach it, question by question, unravelling what’s truly going on beneath the surface:

1. What am I feeling right now?

– Am I frustrated, anxious, or overwhelmed? Identifying the feeling can be the first step to understanding the block. Sometimes it’s a simple need for release; other times, it’s a sign that something is asking for my attention.

2. What thoughts are circling in my mind?

– Are there recurring thoughts or self-doubts? For example, thoughts like “This isn’t good enough,” or “I don’t know where to start,” can reveal fears around perfectionism or uncertainty that might be
keeping me stuck.

3. Is there something uncomfortable here that I’m avoiding?

– Creative blocks often bring discomfort to the surface. Is there something in the work that feels vulnerable or risky? Maybe I’m avoiding taking a step forward because it feels too personal or challenging.

4. What might this block be trying to tell me?

– Blocks often serve as messengers, hinting at deeper insights. Is there a lesson or awareness I can gain from this pause? Perhaps it’s an invitation to shift my approach, let go of control, or trust the process more.

The Power of Working with Someone to Go Deeper

Here’s the beautiful—and sometimes challenging—thing about blocks: they’re rarely just about creativity. They’re about our deeper layers, beliefs, and the stories we’ve absorbed about who we are. Sometimes they even touch on old stories and limiting beliefs we may have developed as early as childhood. Creative blocks can often be tangled up with these beliefs, and they reveal themselves in our work, urging us to re-examine them.

Having someone to guide you—a coach, therapist, or mentor who truly understands the journey—can be transformative. They can help you unpack those layers with clarity, allowing you to understand your creative self on a deeper level. This support can make a huge difference in gaining perspective, facing what comes up, and moving forward with a fresh outlook.

Personal Tips for Working Through Blocks

If you find yourself facing creative blocks often, here are a few strategies I use.

Journaling – Free writing can help you get past the mental noise and into what’s really going on beneath the block. Just let the words flow without worrying about the end result.
Visualisation Exercises – Try to visualise yourself moving past the block. Imagine yourself fully immersed in your creative work, feeling energised and inspired. Visualising that success can help bring you back to a flow state.
Movement and Nature – Sometimes the most powerful breakthroughs happen away from your workspace. Taking a walk, breathing in fresh air, or moving your body can free up the block and help ideas flow naturally.
Mindful Acceptance – Instead of seeing the block as an enemy, try seeing it as a temporary part of your process. Sit with it, accept its presence, and recognise that it has a purpose, even if it’s hard to see at the moment.

The Evolution of Creativity Through Self-Understanding

In the end, creativity isn’t just about producing; it’s about evolving. Blocks, once understood, can transform from barriers into stepping stones on our journey. Each block we work through, every layer of ourselves we reveal, brings us closer to our most authentic creative expression.

So, next time you find yourself in that familiar creative standstill, ask yourself: Is this a block, or do I simply need to rest? What message might this moment hold, and how could it become a stepping stone rather than a wall? Take a moment to listen to what your mind and body are telling you—whether it’s the need to pause or to push through with a deeper understanding. What would happen if, instead of resisting, you welcomed the block as a wise messenger, waiting to guide you toward your next creative breakthrough?

Love, Madelaine 🌿

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Apply to work with me as my private client.
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