stuck

Combating Procrastination & Creative Block

Procrastinate [proh-kras-tuh­-neyt]

Verb (used with object), to put off till another day or time; defer; delay

 

We’ve all struggled with procrastination. If you haven’t – please share your secrets! I struggle with procrastination quite a bit. There is probably something that I’m putting off and if there isn’t it’s probably because I’ve forgotten it.

There are quite a few ways that I procrastinate. My personal favorite is watching TV/Netflix. My “to watch” list is quite long and I even procrastinate watching those shows and movies by re-watching my favorites such as The Office. I’ll read, walk my dog, or scroll endlessly through Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. I’ll look for new music on YouTube, do laundry or clean up my room. At least some of these are semi-productive, right?!

Now, I should probably let you know some things that I do to try and eliminate or stay away from the distractions listed above. Some of them happen to also be listed as ways that I waste time. I walk my dog to sometimes put things off but on most occasions it helps me clear my head by getting a little fresh air. I will also listen to my favorite band, twenty one pilots, to get some inspiration for my writing and photography. I’ll turn on the TV to a show/channel that can mostly act as white noise so I can concentrate on my work. I’ll make myself a nice cup of hot tea and relax for a few minutes before I get back to work.

I can use all of the things listed below to get myself out of a creative rut/artist block. On top of those, I also like to walk trails in parks near me especially when it’s nice out. Spending time outside and in nature always helps get me out of a creative rut. Another thing I like to do is sit outside and observe my environment, nature and humanity, which can help inspire my writing as well as my photography. The thing I love to do the most is spend time with my dog, Sammy whether it’s cuddling, playing, petting him or of course taking pictures of and with him.

Below is one of my photographs that I took while walking my dog to clear my head.

Have I mentioned that I like taking pictures of trees?!

© Alyssa Barnett

© Alyssa Barnett

I did a little more research on Creative Blocks and found an article by Connor Martin who talks about twenty one pilots and their struggles with creating and connecting it to his struggle to create. Check it out!

https://writingcooperative.com/when-creating-becomes-difficult-2e8ae4fbf7ac

I also found a great tutorial video by “Overall Adventures” that I have included below to help you all overcome your creative blocks.