3 ways to get out of a creative rut

Groov contributing writer Erin Harrison shares how she stays in her creative Groov.

I've made a career over the past 15 years as a writer – but it might surprise you to learn that I don't actually consider myself a super creative person.

The hardest part of my job is having to 'be on' even when I don't feel like it. I have deadlines to meet, and sometimes I'm just not feeling in the right headspace to sit and write. So the words don't come, and I get frustrated.

And, right on cue, that's when imposter syndrome can come knocking. Am I really any good? There are plenty of other writers who are better than me. Should I think about doing something else for a job?

There are plenty of ups and downs, with some weeks feeling like I'm producing incredible work and other weeks – not so much.

I've learned that creativity ebbs and flows, and that's OK. I've also discovered a few tools that help me get back on track when I'm in a creative rut – I'm sharing these below in the hope they might help you, too.

1. Do something different

I recognize when there's just no point in sitting in front of my computer, so I'll 'procrastinate' by doing laundry, walking, or doing something mundane. And often, this is exactly what my brain needed to kick-start a few ideas. In fact, I was thinking about this piece while blow-drying my hair.

2. Just start

Sometimes, I can 'trick' myself into being productive by just sitting down and starting. I'll start small by noting down a few ideas or coming up with some blog titles. And often, this is all I need to get underway with the rest of the words.

3. Be kind to yourself

Since having kids, I've become more aware of what I say about myself, especially out loud. I don't want my girls to hear their mom say, 'I'm not very good at that, so I won't do it.'

One way I practice self-kindness is through mindfulness. I've suffered depression on and off for many years. Still, it's been a long time since I've had a significant episode, and I credit that to mindfulness.

Mindfulness helps me to stop negative ruminations that have the potential to take up more headspace than they should be allowed to have. I know how to ground myself, have a reality check, remind myself of where I am, and keep perspective on everything I'm grateful for. Sure, some days are harder than others, but I have several well-worn tools in my wellbeing toolkit that, most of the time, allow me to wake up to a new day.

And when all else fails, I like to return to this quote from Maya Angelou: "You can't use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have."