How to Create When You’re Feeling Stuck
We’ve all been there. You sit down to create, and… nothing.
The ideas that usually come so easily feel out of reach, and suddenly, everything your creating feels forced, off, or just plain uninspired.
As someone who’s been in the creation business for over a decade and a stylist a lot longer, I know how frustrating it can be to hit a creative block. But here’s the thing: feeling stuck doesn’t mean you’re out of ideas or that you’ve lost your voice. It’s just a sign that you need to slow down, reset, and reconnect with what inspires you.
Here are some strategies that have helped me get back into flow when I’m feeling creatively stuck:
1. Shift Your Energy
Sometimes, what your brain really needs isn’t more thinking it’s movement. When I’m in a creative rut, I step away from my screen and do something that shifts my energy. This might be going for a walk, dancing around the house, or doing a quick workout. Physical movement has a way of clearing mental clutter and making space for new ideas to surface.
2. Revisit Your Why
I always say my compass was written a long time ago. I wrote down what guides me so I don't lose track of my ethos, goals, purpose, and meaning. It’s very easy to get blinded by it all. I often go back to my compass and reassess the direction I’m going. It’s always about fine-tuning. Sure, things change, but my soul remains the same.
3. Create Without Sharing
One of the biggest traps creators fall into is feeling like everything they make has to be “post-worthy.” But sometimes, the best way to get unstuck is to create just for you. Try journaling, taking photos, or filming videos with zero intention of sharing them. Give yourself permission to play, experiment, and make things that no one else will see. This can be a powerful way to reconnect with your creativity without the pressure of results.
4. Change Your Environment
If you’re staring at the same desk, the same wall, and the same coffee cup day after day, it’s no wonder your ideas feel stale. A change of scenery can do wonders for your creativity. Head to a favorite café, sit outside, or even rearrange your space. Sometimes, a fresh environment is all it takes to spark fresh ideas.
5. Curate, Don’t Compare
When you’re feeling creatively blocked, it can be tempting to scroll through Instagram or TikTok for “inspiration.” But let’s be real that often leads to comparison, not creativity. Instead, try curating inspiration from unexpected places. Flip through old magazines, Pinterest, or revisit your favorite books and movies. Collect images, colors, and ideas that spark something in you, without worrying about what anyone else is doing. Blinders on. DND on.
6. Focus on One Idea
This is my kryptonite. When you’re stuck, it’s easy to overthink and get overwhelmed by all the content you “should” be creating. Instead of trying to do everything at once, focus on just one simple idea. Share what inspires you. Share something educational or aspirational for your community.
7. Embrace Imperfection
Not every project has to be groundbreaking, perfectly edited, or meticulously planned. Some of the most engaging projects are the kind that feels real, raw, and imperfect. Give yourself permission to post something messy, simple, or spontaneous. Remember, done is better than perfect.
8. Take a Break (Without Guilt)
Sometimes, the best way to get unstuck is to step back entirely. Whether it’s a day, a week, or longer, taking intentional breaks can help you reset, recharge, and come back with fresh energy and ideas. I find when I do something totally different from work read a book, hike I’m inspired. I’m just a better person, wife, and mother.
9. Lean Into Your Authentic Voice
When in doubt, come back to you. What’s on your mind right now? What’s inspiring you, challenging you, or lighting you up? The more you lean into your authentic voice, the easier it becomes to create pieces that feels true, rather than forced. No judgment. Show up.
10. Trust the Process
Creative blocks are temporary. You’re not stuck forever, and you haven’t lost your magic. Sometimes, the best ideas come when you stop trying so hard and simply trust that your creativity will return when it’s ready.
Remember, you don’t have to be “on” all the time. It’s a rollercoaster. I can safely say what goes down always comes back up. Roll with it. Give yourself grace, keep showing up (even in small ways), and trust that the inspiration will come back often when you least expect it.
