Most of us who need to be creative at work face some sort of rut at one time or another. Sometimes pressure and stress locks your brain up. Sometimes you just feel plain burnt out. Sometimes you can’t quite find the right inspiration. No matter the reason for a roadblock, we have some tips on getting that mojo back.
Acknowledge It
First of all, understand that these kinds of ruts happen to everyone at some time or another. It’s okay to step back and acknowledge the problem for what it is without casting blame or shame upon yourself.
Clear Your Head
If you can find a little time to take a walk, hit the gym or be active in another way, you’re doing better than remaining inert. Step away from that desk and try to do something to get your heart rate up.
Work Differently
Maybe a change of scenery is in order. Can you grab your laptop and head over to the coffee shop? Work from home for a day? Sometimes something as simple as a change of scenery can do wonders. If you are stuck at the office, try to find an empty conference room or quiet break room.
Take a Holiday
If you are feeling burnt out and overworked, give yourself permission to take a holiday. Get out of town. Go camping. Get a nice hotel room. Book a spa day. Do anything but work for a while. Allow yourself the opportunity to relax and not think about work.
Trust Yourself
Be confident that this rut will pass. Know that when your inspiration returns, or when this deadline is reached, you’ll have a chance to breathe again. But overall, be sure to take care of yourself – overworking leads to less productivity and burn out is not a regular condition that you should put yourself through.
