5 Things to do if You’re in a Creative Rut

Maybe you’ve noticed, but I haven’t been super active on my blog lately. It’s been in the back of my mind and I totally knew I wanted to get back into it. But, I just couldn’t seem to find the time to sit down and get it done. Partly, I blame busy season. Working until the wee hours of the morning doesn’t necessarily leave a lot of spare time for creative pursuits. But after that – it’s all on me.

In honor of my return to the blog, I wanted to share a post on a few things you can try if you feel like you’ve been stuck in a little creative rut too. I know the lack of motivation was partially due to my lack of inspiration for things to write about.

Pick up a new hobby.

I am the queen of picking up new hobbies. Just last year, I picked up both knitting and urban gardening. I’m definitely the kind of person that has trouble sitting still. However, trying out new hobbies was key for me surviving the last year and learning how to really be happy on my own.

Picking up new hobbies was part of the reason I drifted away from the blog this year and last year; however, I’m back with a bit of renewed interest in sharing my new hobbies with you all. A new hobby might be the key to finding something you really love and are passionate about.

Try something out of your comfort zone.

Creative ruts are usually caused by boredom. It’s easy for us as humans to get stuck in routines doing things that may not bring us joy anymore. Try something completely out of the ordinary for you. You might be surprised with how you feel afterward.

Some of the things I’ve tried in the past have been weekend trips to new places, hiking by myself, skydiving, bungee jumping, and even things as simple as going out to dinner by myself.

Change your environment.

Instead of working from your usual work from home setup, maybe try working at a new place. If there is a coffee shop or low-key bar close to you, try that. Sometimes just a simple shift can change your whole perspective. Personally, there are a few places within walking distance from my apartment. When I don’t need all my screens at home, I love going to work on trainings or other things.

Talk to someone about it.

Sometimes our friends might seem to know more about ourselves than we do. I find, when I’m in a rut, I discuss what I’m feeling with a few of my closest friends,. They can usually offer new perspectives on what I’m experiencing. They’ve talked me through observing the things I’ve done in the past months and how I can turn those things into new blog content. Honestly, my friends are a part of the reason I’m sharing knitting and gardening on the blog now!

Take some time for self care.

Lastly, just take a step back and take care of yourself. Maybe you’re just burnt out. Draw yourself a bath, use a bath bomb, give yourself a little at-home spa facial, or just lay on the couch and read. Sometimes, all you need to get out of a rut is a little break and space from your current project.

Are you currently in a rut? Have you tried any of these tips or do you have any tips of your own?

Hi - my name is Kirsten! I am currently based in Chicago after a long cross-country move from Arizona. What will you find here? I love sharing all things sustainability and slow fashion, any of my day-to-day shenanigans, the latest new hobbies I picked up, and whatever concert or music festival I can find. Welcome and thanks for popping in to my little corner of the world wide web!