The Mindset of Creating

and getting yourself there

Sometimes, I’m overflowing with new, exciting, creative ideas. Other times, thinking creatively feels impossible. It can take forever to come up with an idea, and then I can’t figure out how to execute it, at least not to the level I would like to.

This feels a little different from creative burnout. I have the ideas; I just lack the execution. My environment can very much impact the execution of my ideas because it has such an effect on my thought processes. Getting into a creative mindset almost feels more about your ability to shirk creative burnout than anything else. Achieving this state, personally, comes down to the things you can do to enhance your experience, considering what you can do to get more in tune with yourself and to get your thoughts flowing.

This short and sweet little something is here to get you to consider your working environment and if it is everything you want/need.

What do you need to create?

What are the nonnegotiables you will not be able to create without? Supplies, sure, but if you’re like me, maybe that also includes water and snacks or a clean workspace.

I know I can carry on creating for almost double the time if I carve out 5 minutes to nibble on something, and I will never get started if the space I’m working in is covered in other stuff. If I’m writing, I need absolute silence or some quiet lo-fi music- no words. This may seem like a silly need, but I will achieve none of the writing I set out to accomplish without silence.

What do you want to help you create?

What are the things you want next to you? What do you want to hear, smell, watch, feel, etc.? What keeps you inspired? Maybe this is music, a podcast, or a comfort show you’re not actually going to watch, but you’ll hear the characters’ voices and feel a little more at ease. Are you using headphones, earbuds, or a speaker? Maybe you want a fuzzy blanket or your pet nearby.

When I’m out photographing a personal project, I listen to music. It's relaxing, and maybe I know the words, or maybe I don’t, but it keeps me going without overthinking. It’s at a volume where I can hear what’s happening around me, just loud enough to hear it without distracting from the process that is happening. If I’m home and working on something repetitive, it’s probably a podcast or a comfort show.

Everyone has their quirks that fall into their process and assist in what they hope to accomplish. I’m sure these things change with time, but they can be a great comfort when you’re pushing yourself to maybe think about things differently or tap into your creativity. Let us know yours!

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