Everyone runs through dry spells with creativity.

Weekly Photo Challenge: Rule of Thirds

Most commonly thought of in terms of writing (as in writer’s block), flagging inspiration can happen with any art form. When it happens to me, my inclination is to think, “My God, I’ve lost it. I’ll never come up with an original thought again.”  I’ve learned, however,  to be patient with it, and instead of chasing after the muse, I let her come to me. And she always does… albeit on her own time schedule.

Some ways I’ve found to jump start creativity:

Try your hand at something new. If you are a painter, try writing a poem. Or go on a photo hike and take shots of anything that interests you. If you are a writer, grab a sketch pad and head out to a community park. Draw quick sketches of whatever you see. If you excel in all the arts, go learn to drive a tractor. Whatever you choose to do, don’t focus on the end result being a masterpiece. That’s not the point. The point is to get a different perspective on what you see and think about.

Get a change of scenery. If you live in the city, take a trip to the country or a forest, or the beach. Fresh air inspires fresh ideas. If you spend most of your time in a rural setting, try tapping into the chaotic energy of a nearby city. Don’t have an agenda, just take in the sights and sounds and ambiance.

Exercise. I’m not much of an athlete, but movement of any kind helps get my brain synapses firing a little better. So dance with your cat. Mow the lawn (my personal favorite). Jog or go to the gym if you absolutely have to. Zumba, anyone?

There are tons of ways to get your creative mojo back online. Just be willing to try something new and different from your usual routine, be willing to let go of expectations for specific outcomes, and be patient. Eventually your muse will come out to play, and it will have been worth the wait.

Weekly Photo Challenge: Rule of Thirds