You know those times when you want to design something but just don’t know how to start? It’s always frustrating, isn’t it? You know you can do it, but your creative juices just aren’t flowing. This often happens after taking a short break from your regular design practice, or when you’re not feeling inspired by anything. So, how do you get past this phase? Because, obviously, you need to get back to producing clean, creative designs at work as quickly as possible. This article is written just for you. We will be looking at:
- The main causes of creative block
- How to get back your creative juices
- Daily habits you can engage in to stay creative
Without further ado, let’s look at the main causes of creative block:
Feeling Burnt Out
Not getting enough rest or being inconsistent with your design practice can mess with your creativity. It's always adviceable to make sure you're taking breaks and allowing yourself time to recharge, but not for too long sha.
Playing It Safe with Design
Are you designing the same things as every other uncreative, regular designer? I hope not. Well, the fact that you’re reading this suggests you like being creative with your designs. Constantly doing things the same way as others doesn’t make you creative. As my friend Bassey Thomas says, “creativity is limitless,” and I believe that too. Develop a design language of your own. Let people see your design outside and be like, "this is surely Zubi's work.
Starting Your Design on Screens
Sketching on paper or starting a project with low-fidelity processes is becoming less common. Many companies now prefer to start with design sprints, perhaps due to the need to meet short deadlines or simply out of convenience. What makes first sketching your ideas so important is that everything is rough and you don’t care. You’re also not afraid of changing anything. This approach creates room for mind exploration.
So now, how can you get back your creative side again?
Explore Other People’s Creative Designs
As a web designer, one of the fastest way to get inspiration is by looking at fellow designers' work. This may involve visiting websites like Pinterest, Dribbble, or Behance to immerse yourself in creative works on similar subjects and patterns. Once you open Figma and start designing, you might initially hate what you create, but don’t worry. Keep your composure😂 and continue. Rebuilding your creativity takes time, but it will come back.
Replicate Creative Designs
Constant practice leads to perfection. Training your brain to behave in a certain way it previously used to can help. Engaging with other people’s designs by replicating them is one of the fastest ways to regain your creative juices. This approach is even more effective than just looking at designs. Trust me, after completing at least two full website UI design projects, your creative side will return.
Change Your Environment
Sometimes, a change of environment can be what you need. This doesn’t necessarily mean taking a vacation or traveling far. Simply stepping out of your home office or exercising in a different place can spark your creativity. Attending art shows or design events can also be a source of inspiration.
Daily Habits to Stay Creative
- Exercise
- Practice design daily
- Read design articles
- View other people’s designs
- Take breaks and get some fresh air
- Keep a sketchbook or inspiration board
I think we have reached the end of this piece. Remember: take breaks when you need to, but practice design consistently and always seek inspiration.
Thank you!
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