MINDSET SHIFTS AND RESOURCES
FOR working through CREATIVE BLOCKS

these tips will help you open the channel and get words on the page

Many people say that there is no such thing as writer’s block. Anyone who has sat down and tried to write only to find their mind blank and uncooperative would likely disagree! As an author and creative coach, I’ve learned that blocks happen when we are out of alignment in some way. For example, if my intention is to write about my mental health, but I am afraid that writing about it will be painful, or that I won’t be able to describe it poetically, or that people will criticize me for what I’ve written, all of these doubts are going to block the flow of unfiltered expression. If I am sleep deprived, or distracted by noise and clutter, or burnt out from a long day, then I’m trying to pour from an empty cup. If I am trying to write perfect sentences on the first go and I can’t get more than a couple words out without my perfectionism kicking in, then I’m going to lose motivation. Are you getting the picture here?

A creative block holds information. It can tell you that something else needs attention. A block gives you reason to pause, ask yourself what you need, and pay attention to what truths come up, even when they feel inconvenient and make your goal seem further out of reach. Sometimes it’s an emotional inner conflict that needs attention; tension between desire and doubt. Sometimes it’s what’s on our plates, our routines, or mental hygiene. Sometimes we don’t trust our intuition or our process.

How many times have you found yourself trying to think harder, create faster, pushing yourself to perform? Not realizing that you might really need a nap, a healthy meal, some movement, or some artful inspiration. The takeaway here is to engage in frequent self check-ins, asking yourself what you need. If you struggle with creative blocks, I’ve provided some resources to support you below.