Creativity is a fluid, ever-changing process, and every artist, no matter their experience, will face moments where inspiration feels out of reach. But how do you know when you’re experiencing a true creative block versus simply needing rest? And more importantly, how can you move through these moments with kindness and ease?

Recognizing the Difference: Rest vs. Creative Block

For me, needing rest is a natural ebb and flow. My intuition tells me when it’s time to take a break, whether that’s stepping away from the studio or simply allowing myself to slow down. Rest can be the best thing I can do for myself - take a nap!

A creative block, on the other hand, feels different. It’s like standing in my studio and feeling off. It’s wanting to create, but not in the ways I usually do. I know I’m in a block when I find myself shifting to other creative outlets, baking, playing my trombone, or even just playing with watercolor in a low-pressure way. The key? I don’t stop creating entirely. I pivot to something that feels good until I’m ready to return. Please don’t rush this process. Some seasons of life will require a lot of breaks while others a lot of creativity.

Understanding Your Patterns

I’ve noticed that my creative blocks often come when I’m overwhelmed, ignoring my intuition, or pushing too hard. That inner voice telling me, You’re doing too much right now? Yeah, I’ve learned to listen to it. When I lose sight of sustainability and my core values, creativity feels more like an obligation than a joy. That’s when I know it’s time to pause and reset.

Emotionally, I don’t judge myself for these moments. (Okay, I try not to.) If judgment creeps in, I write those thoughts down and challenge them with a more compassionate response. This practice keeps me grounded and reminds me that creative lulls are just that, temporary pauses, not permanent stops.

Gentle Ways to Move Through a Block

If you’re feeling creatively blocked, here are a few gentle ways to ease back into the flow:

Shift to another creative outlet – Try something that feels fun and low-pressure, like cooking, baking, or even playing games.
Let go of the pressure to produce – Not every creative session has to result in a masterpiece. Experimentation is valuable, even if the outcome isn’t “good.”
Listen to your body and emotions – If you feel resistance, ask yourself: Do I need a break, or do I need a change?
Doom-scroll Pinterest with intention – (Yes, I’m guilty of this.) But sometimes, looking at inspiration without expectation can spark new ideas.

And most importantly, it’s okay to wait on yourself. If inspiration isn’t coming, forcing it won’t help. Creativity isn’t a machine; it’s a living, breathing process.

Releasing Perfectionism & Pressure

One of the biggest challenges of a creative block is the fear of “wasting” materials or making something “bad.” I get it, art supplies aren’t cheap! And I remind myself that play and curiosity matter more than perfection. Not every piece will be a success, and that’s normal.

My rule? If a painting doesn’t work the first time, I scrub it out, paint over it, and try again. If it still doesn’t work, I let it go, without judgment. Every piece, even the ones that frustrate us, teaches us something.

Finding Creativity in Unexpected Places

Creativity isn’t limited to the studio. I see it everywhere, in my daughter’s intricate Minecraft villages, in my husband’s storytelling during D&D, in the way I arrange ingredients for a new recipe. When we expand our definition of creativity, we realize that we’re never truly blocked, we’re just shifting focus.

Encouragement for Other Creatives

If you’re feeling stuck right now, please know:

It’s normal. Creative blocks and rest periods are a natural part of the process.
You are still creative, even if you’re not making art today. Creativity shows up in a thousand small ways.
It’s okay to take a break. Stepping away doesn’t mean you’re failing, it means you’re honoring your process and your body.

One practical thing you can do today? Be kind to yourself. Whether that means journaling, playing with color, or simply taking a deep breath, start with self-compassion. Creativity will return, in its own time and in its own way. And when it does, you’ll be ready to welcome it back with open arms.

What are your go-to ways to navigate creative blocks? Let’s keep the conversation going, drop a comment or share your experiences!

Understanding Creative Blocks with Compassion