I think creative block is just another manifestation of anxiety. You're afraid you won't be able to produce good stuff, so you ruminate and avoid actually trying.
I agree. Fear of making something bad stops plenty of people. I'm no exception.
Adopting a child-like approach helps, in my opinion, relieve that anxiety by just making something and moving on regardless if it "works" or not. Not easy but with good practice it can be enough to restart your process. Thanks for commenting, Oleg.
Great tips, Frank!! If we take the time to step back and observe, we can learn a lot about creativity and problem-solving from our little friends. I especially needed the reminder that perfectionism is stupid haha, I'm always re-wording my grad school papers until they are "perfect". I feel like I need to de-condition myself from this habit as it only causes extra stress and takes me forever to finish assignments. Do you have any more tips on how to combat perfectionism in the writing process?
For me, it's a matter of trusting yourself that you've done what you set out to do. Accept that nothing written will ever be perfect and you can free yourself from getting caught in that loop. Not easy. Just tasks a bit of practicing!
We write similarly. I just kind of spew it all out at once and then make edits where necessary. These points are so hard novio is and basic but so easy to forget. Thanks for the reminder.
Curious…I love this ethos in theory. What are thoughts when you do have a deadline? Kids don’t have to adhere to a specific timeline when things are due. How do you think we can reconcile adult responsibilities with the kiddo spirit?
I think you can absolutely reconcile the two. You make it a point to show up everyday and direct yourself to write what you can. I write fiction to entertain one person first - myself. So it's easier for me to set my own deadline. I discipline myself to write for a certain time but what I write is not really premeditated. Same with writing these essays. Allows me the ability to create freely. Great question, Paige!
Glad this resonated with you. I find that stepping away for a moment and focusing on something else (cleaning your room, going for a walk, watching a movie) really helps too. It gives your mind a quick reset and you return to your work refreshed. Thanks for the comment and keep at it!
I think creative block is just another manifestation of anxiety. You're afraid you won't be able to produce good stuff, so you ruminate and avoid actually trying.
I agree. Fear of making something bad stops plenty of people. I'm no exception.
Adopting a child-like approach helps, in my opinion, relieve that anxiety by just making something and moving on regardless if it "works" or not. Not easy but with good practice it can be enough to restart your process. Thanks for commenting, Oleg.
Great tips, Frank!! If we take the time to step back and observe, we can learn a lot about creativity and problem-solving from our little friends. I especially needed the reminder that perfectionism is stupid haha, I'm always re-wording my grad school papers until they are "perfect". I feel like I need to de-condition myself from this habit as it only causes extra stress and takes me forever to finish assignments. Do you have any more tips on how to combat perfectionism in the writing process?
For me, it's a matter of trusting yourself that you've done what you set out to do. Accept that nothing written will ever be perfect and you can free yourself from getting caught in that loop. Not easy. Just tasks a bit of practicing!
We write similarly. I just kind of spew it all out at once and then make edits where necessary. These points are so hard novio is and basic but so easy to forget. Thanks for the reminder.
You're welcome, Yardena. I've learned the best way to find success is to get the hell out of my own way. We sometimes create our own roadblocks.
Curious…I love this ethos in theory. What are thoughts when you do have a deadline? Kids don’t have to adhere to a specific timeline when things are due. How do you think we can reconcile adult responsibilities with the kiddo spirit?
I think you can absolutely reconcile the two. You make it a point to show up everyday and direct yourself to write what you can. I write fiction to entertain one person first - myself. So it's easier for me to set my own deadline. I discipline myself to write for a certain time but what I write is not really premeditated. Same with writing these essays. Allows me the ability to create freely. Great question, Paige!
Wish I had learned all these lessons so long ago. Keep building that body of work sir, excellent as always.
Thank you! Same goes for you my friend!
Great post and one that really spoke to me. I've been having trouble with #3 and it's been hindering me to be #2. Thanks for sharing this.
Glad this resonated with you. I find that stepping away for a moment and focusing on something else (cleaning your room, going for a walk, watching a movie) really helps too. It gives your mind a quick reset and you return to your work refreshed. Thanks for the comment and keep at it!