How to Rethink Your Creative Process
Everyone’s creative process looks different, but a lot have the same initial phases. I find that I start out excited and ready to rumble with the idea. Then I dive into research and planning and looking for inspiration. This is where things sometimes fall apart. I find myself getting overwhelmed by what I need to do to bring this new idea to life.
Are you nodding your head? Here are a few thoughts on how to stop the second-guessing cycle.
No idea is a bad idea
All ideas have to start somewhere. Whatever comes to mind, get it down. You never know where that idea or design can evolve. No matter how silly you may think your initial thought or concept is, allow time for your idea to develop into something powerful. And don’t worry if you’re not the very first person to want to do something. You are the very best person to do it in your exact way. And that’s enough.
Change up your environment
Inspiration can be found in the most random of spaces. Sometimes all you need to do is get out of the office. Visit a coffee shop or local library. Talk to real live people about it. Ya, like offline. This will help you get out of your head and unstuck from your desk.
Unplug
Digital distractions can prolong the process. Put the phone down and get away from a screen if you can. Try a pen and paper first before jumping on your laptop. While checking out other people’s work can be a source of inspiration, it can limit your originality in your ideas. Use your imagination!
Do not set expectations or limitations
Setting expectations on yourself can add a layer of pressure and limit your mindset. This is one of the worst things you can do during the creative process. Don’t close of a potentially great idea because of fear. Limiting yourself would be a real shame. Think of what you could dream up if you just changed your mindset. You have talent, and you need to trust yourself. You can design great things, settle into that instead of fear or doubt!
The main point in all of this is to LET GO. Seriously. Creativity is meant to be fluid and not pinned down to a specific place. Let go and see what you create. It can get a little messy, but that’s the beauty in it.
